One of Africa’s most celebrated business leaders, Femi Otedola, has released his long-awaited memoir Making It Big: Lessons from a Life in Business, an inspiring account that blends his extraordinary life story with practical business wisdom. The book, officially launching on August 18, offers readers a rare and honest look into the risks, setbacks, triumphs, and reinventions that defined Otedola’s journey to becoming one of the continent’s most influential billionaires.
From dreaming of entrepreneurship before the age of ten to making his first billion at 41, Otedola’s story is a gripping narrative of ambition and resilience. He recounts building Zenon Petroleum & Gas into a diesel supply giant, transforming Forte Oil Plc into one of Nigeria’s most profitable energy companies, and now leading Geregu Power Plc and FirstHoldCo Plc. The memoir also highlights the role of innovation, diversification, and philanthropy in shaping both his career and his enduring legacy.
Making It Big has already drawn high-profile endorsements. Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote, praised the book as “a highly recommended read for anyone who aspires to be successful in a challenging environment.” Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Director General of the World Trade Organization, described it as an important contribution to Africa’s scarce body of business literature, while African Development Bank President Dr. Akinwumi Adesina called it “a must-read for all business leaders, policymakers and young entrepreneurs.”
Beyond business, Otedola’s philanthropic impact shines through the memoir. From endowing universities and funding education to serving as Chancellor of Augustine University and supporting international charities like Save the Children UK, he underscores that true success lies in leaving a legacy that outlives wealth.
The book will be available in hardcover, paperback, and digital formats via www.makingitbigbook.com. Readers can also follow exclusive behind-the-scenes stories and updates across Otedola’s and his family’s social media platforms under the official hashtag #MakingItBig.
With candor, insight, and vision, Making It Big cements Femi Otedola not only as a titan of African business but also as a mentor for the next generation of entrepreneurs.