When conversations turn to African enterprise, empowerment and economic transformation, one name consistently commands global respect: Tony Elumelu.
In recognition of his far-reaching impact across banking, investment and philanthropy, Elumelu will receive the Silverbird Extraordinary Achievement Award at the grand finale of the Silverbird Man of the Year (SMOTY) 2025 ceremony, set for Sunday, March 1, 2026, at Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos.
Architect of Modern African Enterprise
As Chairman of Heirs Holdings and Founder of the Tony Elumelu Foundation, Elumelu has built a legacy anchored on long-term investment in Africa’s private sector.
His rise to prominence began in banking, where he led Standard Trust Bank before orchestrating its landmark merger with United Bank for Africa in 2005. As Group Managing Director/CEO of UBA, he transformed the institution into a formidable pan-African financial powerhouse, expanding operations across more than 20 African countries and establishing international footprints in global financial centres.
Beyond Banking: Building Institutions, Empowering Generations
Through Heirs Holdings, Elumelu has championed diversified investments in power, energy, hospitality, healthcare and real estate. As Chairman of Transnational Corporation of Nigeria (Transcorp), he oversees strategic national assets including Transcorp Hilton Abuja and Transcorp Power, institutions central to Nigeria’s business and energy landscape.
Yet, beyond balance sheets and boardrooms lies his most defining contribution: Africapitalism, a philosophy advocating long-term private investment as the engine for Africa’s economic transformation and social prosperity.
That philosophy finds practical expression in the Tony Elumelu Entrepreneurship Programme, one of the continent’s largest entrepreneurship initiatives. Through it, thousands of young African entrepreneurs have received funding, mentorship and training — unlocking innovation and job creation across sectors.
A Continental Voice, A Global Influence
Elumelu’s influence extends to international advisory platforms, including engagements with the United Nations Sustainable Energy for All initiative and the World Economic Forum. A recipient of Nigeria’s national honour, Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON), he represents a new generation of African business leadership rooted in impact and inclusion.
SMOTY 2025: Celebrating Legacy and Leadership
The Silverbird Extraordinary Achievement Award honours individuals whose contributions transcend sectors and borders. For Tony Elumelu, it recognises a legacy built not only on corporate success, but on empowering a continent’s future.
On March 1, 2026, at SMOTY 2025, the applause will celebrate more than a business magnate — it will salute a visionary shaping Africa’s economic destiny through enterprise, empowerment and enduring impact.
