In what could mark a defining moment for Nigeria’s economic renaissance, Nigerian-American billionaire and global investor Adebayo Ogunlesi, Chairman and CEO of Global Infrastructure Partners (GIP), has hinted at a wave of transformative investments across Africa—beginning with his home country, Nigeria.
Following a strategic meeting with President Bola Tinubu in Abuja, Ogunlesi reaffirmed his confidence in the government’s sweeping economic reforms, describing them as “fundamental transformations that have repositioned Nigeria on the global investment map.”
Ogunlesi’s renewed interest spans across energy, aviation, ports, and renewable projects—sectors he believes hold the key to unlocking Africa’s infrastructure future. His optimism, shared by other diaspora investors like Hakeem Bello-Osagie, marks a symbolic turning point for Nigeria’s investment narrative.
A Renewed Vision for Nigeria
Speaking to journalists after the high-level meeting, Ogunlesi, who is globally recognized for his acquisition of Gatwick Airport in the UK, said he was impressed by the pace of reforms under President Tinubu.
“We had an excellent meeting where we discussed how to put Nigeria front and center for international investment. The President was very encouraging, and we shared useful suggestions on driving economic growth,” Ogunlesi remarked.
He particularly lauded the removal of fuel subsidies, tax reforms, and the revival of a local refinery already exporting aviation fuel, describing them as signs that Nigeria is “finally moving in the right direction.”
Energy, Aviation, and Ports on the Investment Radar
While Ogunlesi declined to disclose detailed plans, he confirmed that GIP is actively exploring opportunities in Nigeria.
“Watch this space,” he teased. “Nigeria is not yet the most exciting investment destination, but that’s what we’re working on.”
Drawing from his firm’s global experience in LNG projects across Texas and Australia, Ogunlesi highlighted Nigeria’s vast untapped gas reserves as a natural advantage that could redefine the country’s energy landscape.
On aviation, he playfully referenced his moniker as “the guy who bought Gatwick Airport,” noting that he is “keen to see similar world-class aviation infrastructure emerge in Nigeria.”
He also revealed that while his companies currently operate ports in Cotonou and Lomé, they have yet to invest in any Nigerian port—something President Tinubu humorously challenged him on.
“He forgave me,” Ogunlesi recounted with a smile, “but said, ‘You must bring port investments home.’”
Diaspora Confidence and Nigeria’s Economic Momentum
Joining Ogunlesi at the meeting were Hakeem Bello-Osagie, former UBA chief executive, and Dr. Zacch Adedeji, Executive Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS). The gathering underscored growing confidence among diaspora investors in Tinubu’s economic direction.
“When Nigerians at home and abroad invest in Nigeria, it sends a strong signal to the world,” Bello-Osagie said, applauding the administration for making the country “investable again.”
Dr. Adedeji reinforced this optimism, stressing that recent fiscal and structural reforms are laying the groundwork for an export-led economy.
“We’ve done the fundamentals,” he stated. “Now it’s time to deliver growth.”
Reflection: A Turning Point for Nigeria’s Global Image
Ogunlesi’s re-engagement comes at a time when Nigeria is seeking to rebuild investor trust amid global economic uncertainty. His potential return signals not just financial confidence but also a powerful endorsement of Nigeria’s reform agenda.
From leading some of the world’s largest infrastructure investments to shaping energy and transport systems across continents, Ogunlesi’s possible ventures in Nigeria could catalyze a new era of industrial revitalization—bridging global capital with local opportunity.
If realized, his plans could redefine Nigeria’s standing as Africa’s investment powerhouse—fueling the nation’s energy independence, aviation modernization, and port competitiveness.
As Ogunlesi put it succinctly, “Nigeria’s future will be written by those who choose to believe in it—and invest in it.”
Nigerian-American billionaire Adebayo Ogunlesi signals major investments in Nigeria’s energy, aviation, and port sectors following a high-level meeting with President Tinubu, praising reforms that are restoring global investor confidence.
Discover more from Ameh News
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
