Manny Ita –
The Presidency has extended warm birthday felicitations to Tony Elumelu, Chairman of Heirs Holdings and United Bank for Africa, as he marks his birthday on March 22, commending his enduring contributions to economic development and entrepreneurship across Africa.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the Presidency described Elumelu as “a visionary entrepreneur and investor whose commitment to empowering African businesses continues to inspire a new generation of leaders across the continent.” It particularly highlighted his widely acclaimed Africapitalism philosophy, noting that it has reshaped conversations around private sector responsibility in driving Africa’s growth.
According to the statement, “Tony Elumelu’s Africapitalism ideology has become a rallying point for sustainable development, emphasizing the role of African entrepreneurs in creating economic prosperity and social wealth.” The Presidency added that his efforts through philanthropy and enterprise development have significantly expanded opportunities for young Africans.
The statement further praised the work of the Tony Elumelu Foundation, which it said has “empowered thousands of entrepreneurs across Africa with funding, mentorship, and training, thereby contributing meaningfully to job creation and poverty reduction.”
Describing him as “a worthy ambassador of Nigeria’s entrepreneurial excellence on the global stage,” the Presidency lauded his role in strengthening the continent’s financial ecosystem through his leadership at United Bank for Africa, which operates in multiple African countries and beyond.
It also noted that his investments under Heirs Holdings have spanned critical sectors including energy, financial services, hospitality, and healthcare, reinforcing his commitment to long-term development and inclusive growth.
“On this special occasion, the Federal Government celebrates a man whose vision and dedication continue to uplift communities and drive innovation across Africa,” the statement read, adding that it wishes him “continued good health, greater accomplishments, and many more years of impactful service to humanity.”
Tony Elumelu, one of Africa’s most influential business leaders, is widely regarded for championing entrepreneurship as a tool for economic transformation, with his initiatives consistently supporting startups and small businesses across the continent.
