Today, we celebrate the extraordinary life and achievements of Mike Adenuga, a truly wonderful man whose journey from humble beginnings to becoming one of Africa’s most influential billionaires is nothing short of inspiring. As he marks his 72nd birthday on April 29, 2025, we reflect on his remarkable contributions to business, technology, and philanthropy, which have left an indelible mark on Nigeria and beyond. Adenuga’s story is a testament to resilience, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to progress—a shining example of what can be achieved through vision and determination.

A Humble Beginning with a Big Dream

Mike Adenuga was born in 1953 in Ibadan, Nigeria, to a schoolteacher father and a businesswoman mother of royal Ijebu descent. Raised in a modest household, he learned the value of education and perseverance early on. His academic journey took him from Ibadan Grammar School to the United States, where he earned a degree in Business Administration from Northwestern Oklahoma State University and an MBA from Pace University. To fund his studies, Adenuga worked as a taxi driver and security guard in New York City—experiences that instilled in him a relentless work ethic and a deep appreciation for opportunity.

By age 26, Adenuga had already made his first million in Nigeria, selling lace and distributing soft drinks. This early success hinted at the entrepreneurial empire he would later build, driven by his ability to seize opportunities and take calculated risks.

Building an Empire: Telecom, Oil, and Beyond

Adenuga’s business acumen truly shone in the 1990s and 2000s as he transformed industries critical to Nigeria’s growth.

• Oil and Gas Pioneer: In 1991, Adenuga’s company, Conoil Producing, became the first indigenous Nigerian firm to strike oil in commercial quantities in Ondo State. This milestone not only established him as a key player in the energy sector but also inspired other local entrepreneurs. Today, Conoil operates six oil blocks in the Niger Delta.
• Telecom Revolutionary: Adenuga’s most iconic achievement came in 2003 with the launch of Globacom, now Nigeria’s second-largest mobile network. After overcoming regulatory challenges, Globacom introduced per-second billing—a first in the industry—and later launched Glo-1, a 6,100-mile submarine internet cable connecting Nigeria to the U.K. With over 60 million subscribers and operations in Ghana, Benin, and Côte d’Ivoire, Globacom has revolutionized telecommunications in Africa.
• Diverse Ventures: Beyond oil and telecom, Adenuga holds stakes in Sterling Financial Holdings and has investments in real estate, manufacturing, and aviation. In 2024, his net worth rose by $700 million to $6.8 billion, earning him the nickname “The Bull” for his resilience.

Innovation for the Future

Adenuga’s forward-thinking vision continues to shape Nigeria’s technological landscape. In 2024, he launched digital innovation hubs, beginning in Lagos, to foster entrepreneurship and tech growth, with plans to expand to Port Harcourt, Ibadan, and Abuja by mid-2025. His fintech venture, MoneyMaster Payment Service Bank, launched in 2022, is also advancing financial inclusion for Nigeria’s 79 million underbanked citizens.

A Legacy of Giving Back

Adenuga’s generosity shines through the Mike Adenuga Foundation, a Pan-African initiative focused on education, healthcare, and economic development. His commitment to improving lives reflects his belief in leaving a better world, earning him widespread admiration as “The Guru” and “The Spirit of Africa.”

Honors and Recognition

Adenuga’s impact has garnered numerous accolades:

• 2007: African Entrepreneur of the Year
• 2012: Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger
• 2018: Commander of the Legion of Honour (France)
• 2019: Top 100 Most Influential Africans by New African magazine

His Yoruba title, “Otunba Apesin,” underscores his cultural significance in Nigeria.

A Family Man and a Quiet Giant

Married with seven children, including Bella Disu, who plays a key role in his businesses, Adenuga remains a private yet towering figure. At 72, he inspires entrepreneurs across Africa with his humility and tenacity.

Celebrating Mike Adenuga

As we honor Mike Adenuga on his 72nd birthday, we celebrate more than his business success—we celebrate his spirit. From driving a taxi in New York to building a multibillion-dollar empire, his journey proves that greatness begins with determination. His legacy in Nigeria’s economy, technology, and society will endure for generations.

Happy Birthday, Guru! May your vision continue to uplift and inspire.