Africa’s renowned tech entrepreneur and founder of Zinox Group, Leo Ekeh, outlined a bold blueprint for entrepreneurial success in Nigeria, urging business leaders to adopt a composite mindset inspired by the strengths of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, and former Anambra Governor Peter Obi.
Speaking at a mentoring session organised recently by young business leaders in Ikoyi, Lagos, Ekeh emphasised that thriving in Nigeria’s volatile business landscape requires a unique blend of resilience, tenacity, and ethical conviction.
Ekeh, who pioneered digital publishing in Nigeria and launched the country’s first internationally certified computer brand, argued that the complexities of Nigeria’s market demand a multifaceted approach.
He likened the ideal entrepreneur to a fusion of Tinubu’s strategic acumen and courage, Atiku’s persistence and fairness, and Obi’s humility and thriftiness.
“Nigeria’s entrepreneurial terrain is not for the faint-hearted,” Ekeh said. “It requires the combined strength of these leaders to navigate challenges and seize opportunities.”
Drawing on Tinubu’s political career, Ekeh highlighted his resilience as the only opposition governor to survive the 2003 PDP sweep under President Obasanjo.
“Tinubu’s defiance and long-term strategy are critical for entrepreneurs facing economic fluctuations, regulatory shifts, and intense competition,” he noted.
He pointed to Tinubu’s bold declaration, “Emi lo kan” (it’s my turn), as an example of the courage entrepreneurs need to claim market leadership, regardless of limited resources or humble beginnings.
Ekeh also praised Atiku’s tenacity, citing his willingness to challenge political structures, including taking the Federal Government to court during his vice-presidential tenure.
Quoting Atiku’s 2023 statement, “I am not going away… For as long as I breathe, I will continue to struggle.” Ekeh stressed that entrepreneurs must mirror this perseverance to overcome bureaucratic hurdles and systemic challenges.
“I’ve faced blackmail and persecution in my journey to build a digital Nigeria,” Ekeh shared, underscoring the need for relentless determination.
Peter Obi’s prudent management and humility were equally vital, Ekeh argued. As Anambra’s governor, Obi cut governance costs, saved reserves, and delivered results, embodying a frugality that entrepreneurs must adopt in Nigeria’s volatile economy.
“Obi teaches us the difference between thriftiness and stinginess,” Ekeh said. “His morality and credibility show that ethical practices build trust, making a company creditworthy.”
Ekeh’s own success with Zinox Group, a leading tech conglomerate, reflects these traits. He emphasised that Nigeria, as Africa’s largest economy, offers immense rewards but demands strategic thinking, calculated frugality, and unwavering belief in possibilities.
“The market does not forgive mediocrity or indecision,” he warned. “Entrepreneurs must be tacticians, reformers, and moral visionaries to survive and grow.”
The mentoring session resonated with attendees, who saw Ekeh’s framework as a practical guide for navigating Nigeria’s challenges, from infrastructural deficits to intense competition.
By blending Tinubu’s leadership, Atiku’s persistence, and Obi’s ethical approach, Ekeh believes entrepreneurs can build sustainable businesses that drive economic growth and prosperity.
Madukwe B. Nwabuisi is an accomplished journalist renown for his fearless reporting style and extensive expertise in the field. He is an investigative journalist, who has established himself as a kamikaze reporter.