Second Book
TONY. O ELUMELU LEADING BY EXAMPLE
What is the secret to success? And what lessons can we learn from one man’s incredible achievements?
Leading by Example tells the inspiring story of Tony O. Elumelu and shares the lessons that he has learned along his path to success. From humble beginnings to global impact, you’ll trace the steps of Tony Elumelu’s incredible journey of business, philanthropy, and service.
This book will lead you on an adventure by Tony’s side, from lamp-lit study sessions in Jos, Nigeria to one of Africa’s biggest financial mergers, award ceremonies on Wall Street, the signing of historic deals at the United Nations, and a star-studded 60th birthday celebration. A tale of hope, resilience, and how to achieve your true potential, Leading by Example is a testament to Tony’s influence and ingenuity.
Inside Leading by Example: A Journey of Business, Philanthropy, and Service, you’ll learn more about:
- Tony’s childhood, family, and education
- How a lucky chance propelled him to success as Nigeria’s youngest branch manager and then the country’s youngest CEO
- The philosophy of Africapitalism and Tony’s vision of future prosperity for the world
- His philanthropic support of African entrepreneurship via the Tony Elumelu Foundation
- His impact and influence on a global political and economic stage
- How Tony’s journey can help you make your own leap forward to success
Part biography of the fascinating life of Tony Elumelu and part handbook for how to become a successful entrepreneur, Leading by Example offers a roadmap for those who wish to follow in his footsteps. It will inspire you to achieve your dreams—and make your fortune along the way.
TONY. O ELUMELU LEADING BY EXAMPLE
“Tony Elumelu: Leading by Example” begins with Tony’s childhood in the serene yet complex environment of Jos, Nigeria. Amidst the natural beauty of Plateau State, Tony was raised by hardworking, entrepreneurial parents who instilled in him the values of resilience and ambition. Witnessing the struggles of his community and the economic challenges posed by Nigeria’s civil war, Tony developed a strong desire to create opportunities not only for himself but for others. This foundation, rooted in both hardship and hope, would shape his journey as a visionary leader dedicated to uplifting Africa through business, philanthropy, and impactful service.
After graduating with an economics degree, Tony Elumelu entered the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) in 1985, which required him to serve outside his home state. He was assigned to Sokoto, a culturally distinct region, where he worked as a teller at Union Bank, gaining his first practical experience in finance. Driven by entrepreneurial spirit, Tony also launched a small business selling locally made clothing, sparking his fascination with business. Upon completing NYSC, Tony moved to Lagos, ultimately securing a job at Allstates Trust Bank—a pivotal opportunity that launched his career in banking.
Tony Elumelu’s concept of Africapitalism is a transformative philosophy aimed at reimagining capitalism for Africa’s unique context, combining economic growth with social impact. Coined in 2011, Africapitalism advocates for the private sector’s role in Africa’s development, emphasizing entrepreneurship, long-term investments, and value-added growth, particularly in strategic sectors like agriculture and energy. Elumelu’s vision highlights the importance of creating wealth within Africa rather than relying on external aid, aiming to foster a self-sufficient, interconnected continent. Through Heirs Holdings and initiatives like the Africapitalism Institute, Tony champions this philosophy, inspiring a generation to see Africa not just as a charity case, but as a viable, thriving investment landscape.
Discussing Tony Elumelu’s belief in entrepreneurship as a key driver for Africa’s economic future, particularly given its young demographic. Through his Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF), he supports thousands of aspiring entrepreneurs with seed capital, mentoring, and training, helping them turn innovative ideas into successful businesses that create local jobs and drive community growth. He emphasizes the need for supportive policies, such as reduced bureaucratic barriers and increased access to seed funding, to cultivate an environment where young entrepreneurs can thrive. Tony advocates for a shift towards an entrepreneurial mindset across all roles, viewing youth entrepreneurship as essential not only for economic growth but also for fostering stability, reducing poverty, and unlocking Africa’s vast potential.
The founding and impact of the Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF), launched in 2010 with a mission to democratize access to entrepreneurship opportunities across Africa. Tony Elumelu’s vision was to empower young entrepreneurs by providing seed funding, mentorship, and training, all while promoting his philosophy of Africapitalism to drive both economic and social wealth. The TEF’s flagship program, the Tony Elumelu Entrepreneurship Program (TEEP), has trained over 1.5 million individuals and provided funding to thousands, resulting in significant job creation and community development across the continent. Through TEF, Elumelu has fostered a generation of African entrepreneurs whose ventures, from sustainable fashion to tech innovations in agriculture, exemplify his belief in inclusive growth and the power of entrepreneurship to reshape Africa’s future.
Reflects on Tony Elumelu’s global impact as he celebrated his 60th birthday, underscoring his journey from humble beginnings to becoming a pivotal figure in African entrepreneurship and global philanthropy. Recognized internationally with numerous awards, including TIME’s 100 Most Influential People, Elumelu has used his influence to advocate for Africa’s economic growth through private sector empowerment and youth entrepreneurship. His commitment extends beyond his business success, as he continues to champion Africa’s role in addressing global challenges like climate change, urging for collective responsibility and action. Through his foundation, social media, and diplomatic efforts, Elumelu fosters an inspiring vision of an empowered, self-sufficient Africa driven by its young, ambitious population.
