By David Akinlo, From Abuja
In a bold and optimistic move aimed at revitalizing Nigeria’s economy, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has officially designated four of the nation’s most accomplished businessmen—Aliko Dangote, Femi Otedola, Jim Ovia, and Abdul Samad Rabiu—as the “Four Wise Men” of Nigeria’s economy.
The announcement, made during a special address at the Presidential Economic Advisory Forum in Abuja, was met with applause and renewed hope from stakeholders across the public and private sectors. Tinubu praised the quartet not only for their individual achievements but also for their consistent dedication to national development, job creation, and long-term investment in key sectors like manufacturing, energy, banking, and philanthropy.
“These are men who have weathered storms, built empires, and more importantly, never turned their backs on Nigeria,” the President stated. “We are calling on their wisdom, their experience, and their patriotism to help chart a new, inclusive, and resilient path for our economy.”
Who Are the “Four Wise Men”?
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Aliko Dangote, Africa’s richest man, is a symbol of industrial strength, best known for his groundbreaking work in cement, sugar, and most recently, the Dangote Refinery—the largest single-train refinery in the world, which began full operations earlier this year.
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Femi Otedola, a renowned energy mogul and philanthropist, has been instrumental in transforming Nigeria’s power and oil sectors. His strategic investments and leadership in Geregu Power have marked him as a visionary in energy infrastructure.
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Jim Ovia, founder of Zenith Bank, is celebrated for his pioneering role in Nigeria’s modern banking industry. A strong advocate for tech-driven solutions and entrepreneurship, Ovia is also a key supporter of youth empowerment through digital innovation.
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Abdul Samad Rabiu, the founder of BUA Group, continues to strengthen Nigeria’s industrial base through cement, sugar, and agricultural production. His Abdul Samad Rabiu Africa Initiative (ASR Africa) has committed billions toward education and health across the continent.
A New Economic Council
According to the Presidency, the four will serve as strategic advisors in a newly formed National Economic Advisory Council, tasked with shaping policy direction, accelerating industrial growth, attracting foreign investment, and fostering public-private partnerships.
This development comes amid efforts to stabilize the naira, tackle inflation, and boost local production. With these respected figures at the table, many are hopeful for tangible progress.
Nigerians across social media have hailed the move as “visionary,” with some calling it “the dream team Nigeria needs.”
A Fresh Era of Collaboration
Beyond titles, President Tinubu emphasized that this initiative symbolizes a new era of collaboration between the government and the private sector.
“We cannot walk this road alone,” he said. “Together, with our best minds and boldest hearts, we will rebuild Nigeria’s economy—stronger, fairer, and future-ready.”
