Boss Of The Week

Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala: More Laurels for Africa’s Most Creative Woman

Published

2 months ago

January 26, 2025

Eric

By Eric Elezuo

There seems to be no end to the flow of awards, honours and laurels coming the way of one of Africa’s living legends among women, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, who is the Director General of the World Trade Organization, as a result of her leadership qualities, exemplary lifestyle and societal impact.

Only last week in far away Davos, the Nigerian export to the world, and former Co-ordinating Minister of the Economy, was named and crowned the ThisDay Woman of the Year for obvious reasons.

According to the Editor-in-chief of ThisDay and Arise News, Prince Nduka Obaigbena, while presenting the award, Okonjo-Iweala qualifies as “an uncommon African who is carrying the African flag around the world showing that the African century is upon us.”

He noted that the reason behind the choice of the former Nigerian Finance Minister lies in her exceptional leadership and strategic vision for the future of the WTO which saw her recent reappointment for a second term.

“To the glory of God, it is an honour and privilege in Davos today, to present on behalf of the audiences of ARISE News Channel around the world and readers of THISDAY Newspapers in commemorating our 30th anniversary, to present our 2024 ‘Woman of the Year’ award to an uncommon African, who is carrying the African flag around the world, showing that the African century is upon us. It is a privilege to present our 2024 Woman of the Year award to the head of the World Trade Organisation, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala,” Obaigbena had said while making the presentation.

Okonjo-Iweala, who is not new to awards, even with the ThisDay organisational, applauded the honours noted that “…this is very, very, very special and I promise you I don’t take it lightly.

“I’ll continue to do my best to try and represent the country, and the continent the best way I can, and to make sure that the dividends of development also flow our way.”

Madam DG’s trajectory in the journey of administration has been phenomenal, and laddened with special touches of creativity, which has consistently placed her on the pedestal of greatness.

While looking forward to celebrate 71 on June 13, Okonjo-Iweala cannot help but accommodate the outpouring of affection and respect that have trailed her performances in all offices she has occupied so far. This underscores her significant influence in global affairs and her role as a respected figure on the world stage, and serving as a reminder of the personal connections and goodwill she has fostered worldwide. She certainly deserves every accolade.

Humble and family oriented, the face of African standard is a woman full of appreciation, and do not hesitate to put her in the forefront, irrespective of her humongous achievements.

She once expressed thus: “I consider myself blessed to have a loving husband, family, friends, and well-wishers! All Glory and Thanks to God!”

Okonjo-Iweala, who for the seventh time in her meritorious career, was recognised, and named one of Forbes’s World’s 100 Most Powerful Women in 2023, is an accomplished financial expert, a former Foreign Affairs Minister, who is fond and proud of her traditional ankara attire.

It is worthy of note that Forbes is an American business magazine owned by Integrated Whale Media Investments and the Forbes family with a particular focus on business, technology, communications, science, politics, and law.

According to Forbes’ 20th annual ranking of 2024, the distinguished Nigerian Economist holds the 87th spot, moving up four spots, and surpassing South African businesswoman, Mpumi Madisa, who stands at 88th.

Okonjo-Iweala also beat Tanzanian President, Samia Hassan, who made her debut on the list at the 93rd position, alongside Nigerian media mogul and philanthropist Mo Abudu at the 98th. Her position bestowed on her the status of the most powerful woman in Africa.

Topping the powerful woman chart, however, is Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission for Impactful Policy and Budget, while Christine Lagarde, European Central Bank President, secures the second spot, with U.S. Vice President Kamala Harris following closely in third place.

Okonjo-Iweala, who shattered barriers in 2021 as the first woman and the first African Director-General of the WTO, is celebrated for her remarkable career at the World Bank, and impactful economic reforms in Nigeria.

Her recognition on Forbes’ list underscores not only her significant contributions to global trade but also her commitment to economic development, governance, and international leadership.

In 2022, “The World Trade Organization head Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, made the No. 91 of 100 powerful women in the world, and continues to play a crucial role in providing financial assistance and promoting global trade as the threat of a global recession rises.

A statement from Forbes added that Okojo-Iweala is “an economist and international development professional with more than 30 years of experience working in Asia, Africa, Europe, Latin America and North America.”

Also in 2021, Okonjo-Iweala was recognized by another media platform, Time magazine as one of the world’s most influential people for the year under review.

“In March 2021, she became first woman and the first African to serve as Director-General of the World Trade Organization.

“She has said she believes in the power of trade to lift developing countries out of poverty help them achieve sustainable development.

“Earlier in her career, Okonjo-Iweala served two terms as Nigeria’s Finance Minister, from 2003-2006 and 2011-2015; she also briefly served as Foreign Minister in 2006.

“She was also Chair of the Board of Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance that has immunized 760 million children globally.”

According to Wikipedia, Okonjo-Iweala was born on June 13, 1954 in Ogwashi-Ukwu, Delta State, Nigeria where her father Professor Chukwuka Okonjo is the Eze (King) from the Obahai Royal Family of Ogwashi-Ukwu.

Okonjo-Iweala was educated at Queen’s School, Enugu, St. Anne’s School, Molete, Ibadan, and the International School Ibadan. She arrived in the US in 1973 as a teenager to study at Harvard University, graduating magna cum laude with an AB in Economics in 1976. In 1981, she earned her Ph.D in regional economics and development from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) with a thesis titled Credit policy, rural financial markets, and Nigeria’s agricultural development. She received an International Fellowship from the American Association of University Women (AAUW), that supported her doctoral studies.

She spent a 25-year career at the World Bank as a Development Economist, scaling the ranks to the Number two position of Managing Director, Operations between 2007 and 2011. She also served two terms as Finance Minister of Nigeria (2003–2006, 2011–2015) under the leadership of President Olusegun Obasanjo and President Goodluck Jonathan respectively. She also had a stint in the external affairs ministry as minister.

She is a seasoned economist and international development expert, and sits on the Boards of Standard Chartered Bank, Twitter, Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunization (GAVI), and the African Risk Capacity (ARC).

She is married to Dr. Ikemba Iweala, a neurosurgeon. They have four children – one daughter, Onyinye Iweala (AB, MD, PhD, Harvard) and three sons, Uzodinma Iweala (AB, Harvard, MD, Columbia), Okechukwu Iweala (AB, Harvard) and Uchechi Iweala (AB, MD, MBA, Harvard).

Okonjo-Iweala became a US citizen in 2019 after spending several decades working and studying in the United States. Among an avalanche of high class honours trailing her, Okonjo-Iweala is also the founder of Nigeria’s first indigenous opinion-research organisation, NOI-Polls. She also founded the Center for the Study of Economies of Africa (C-SEA), a development research think tank based in Abuja.

In 2012, Okonjo-Iweala contested for Presidency of the World Bank. She lost to Jim Yong Kim. Eight years in-between in November 2020, she contested the DG position of the World Trade Centre, and emerged winner.

An apostle of good governance, Okonjp-Iweala is quoted as saying: “Let’s continue to show that good governance, good public policy and a people-centered approach to work matters.”

Many has praised her leadership acumen at the WTO and her dedication to global trade issues, underscoring her impact on international relations and economic policies.

Considering her speed, acumen, productivity, proactive nature and eye for details, the end to her honours and recognitions is nowhere in sight.

We once again say a big Congratulations to Madam DG.

Boss Of The Week

Eric Gumbo: The Excellent, Gutsy African Administrator

Published

2 weeks ago

March 22, 2025

Eric

By Eric Elezuo

African originality is not in contest. It is evidenced in the prodigious achievements of the rank and file of citizens, who on a daily basis continue to churn out one great after another. Among the list of prolific achievers of Africa is the undisputable Eric Onyango Gumbo; a true African son of Kenyan origin.

Masterful, focused, determined and an all round goal-getter, Gumbo is a legal egghead, who is an Advocate of the Court of Kenya, with over 20 years of legal and advisory experience across Africa, in addition to being an entrepreneurial genius, whose chain of businesses and endeavours speak volume of the mettle he is made of.

Armed with a Bachelor’s degree in Law from Moi University, and a Post graduate Diploma in Law fro the Kenyan School of Law, Gumbo has added a lot of feathers to his cap of merit, including the Commissioner for Oaths, Notary Public and being a Member of the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators. He is one man, who knows his onions in the legal profession, and has used his skills to project the Kenyan justice system as well as project the African continent in the positive legal limelight.

Gumbo is the Managing Partner of G & A (Gumbo and Associates) Advocates LLP, which he founded in 2006, and later established as a Limited Liability Partnership, G&A Advocates LLP, in 2017. And as a visionary leader, he was to expand the firm further to operate in both Nairobi and Eldoret with solid partnerships and collaboration with other leading law firms across Africa.

Beyond his qualification in the normative training of Law, Eric Gumbo has over the years, also enhanced and focused his practice of law in Dispute Resolution and Commercial Law. Towards deepening his training and experience within the two areas of practice, he has also undertaken and completed programs on Financial Markets from Yale University, Arbitration from the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators (Kenya Branch) and Fintech Law and Policy from Duke University. He is currently undertaking a course in Green Business strategy from the Hongkong University of Science and Technology.

Gumbo is not the regular run-off-the-mill Advocate. In his career of over two decades, as an Advocate, he has successfully handled numerous highly sensitive matters according to the G and A website. Some of these include as copiously re-presented:

As part of the team selected to advise and represent Kenya’s elections management body in all the three (3) Presidential Election Petitions filed in in the Supreme Court of Kenya. Acted as legal counsel for one of the state corporations in relation to a claim presented against the state corporation by a downstream affiliate of one of the multinational oil and gas companies where the value of the subject matter was in excess of US$ 45 Million.
Advised and represented a leading electric power producer in a ground breaking transaction between it and the Government of Djibouti for drilling of three geothermal wells in Djibouti.
Provided legal advisory and contracting support to a transport-sector state corporation which involved reviewing and drafting of commercial agreements, and negotiating of diverse aspects with various contracting parties in relation to one of the countryâ€™s flagship infrastructure projects.
In the Public Private Partnership space, Gumbo is currently part of a team that is advising and representing one of the energy sector state corporations in relation to a claim filed before the Public-Private Partnership Petitions Committee in relation to a project valued in excess of US$ 320 Million.
Gumbo also continues to act for diverse entities entrusted with the carrying out of various regulatory and independent constitutional mandates in sectors such as health, energy, telecommunication, education, trade, aviation, procurement, environment and natural resources, capital markets and financial services.

Gumbo is involved in numerous other activities beyond engaging in the actual practice of law.

In the first place, he currently serves as a Non-Executive Chairperson of the Legal Aid Centre for Eldoret (LACE), and also a Council Member representing the Law Society of Kenya in the Council for Legal Education (C.L.E). This is not excluding the fact that he is also a Board Member of the Kenya Re-Insurance Company Limited (Kenya Re), a public listed company.

Larger than life itself, Gumbo’s profile keeps expanding with mouthwatering appointments, requiring zeal, experience, gusto and can-do-attitude. Recently, he was appointed by His Excellency the President of Kenya, Willam Ruto, to serve as a member of the panel mandated to recruit the Auditor General for the Republic of Kenya, and has affiliations that enhance his proclivity to meritorious practice of law. Such affiliations include memberships of the Law Society of Kenya, the East Africa Law Society, Chartered Institute of Administrators and the Legal Aid Centre of Eldoret.

A seasoned legal counsel with over 20 years of experience across Africa, Gumbo has built a strong reputation in the legal industry, specializing in financial services, regulatory matters, advisory roles, commercial transactions, and dispute resolution. He is highly sought after as a consultant, and provides advisory services to both private and public sectors on high-stakes transactions and regulatory frameworks in banking, infrastructure development, energy, and ICT.

His website also described him as “A seasoned public speaker and thought leader, he actively contributes to legal reforms and policy discussions, particularly in financial engineering, electoral law, and governance,” and “has successfully led legal teams in significant sovereign finance transactions and complex cross-border projects, showcasing his expertise and commitment to advancing the legal landscape in Africa.”

Beyond consulting for the Kenyan government, Gumbo has proved his trans-border billing by offering generous consultations to the governments of Somaliland and Tanzania as well as corporate entities such as Rasmala Trade Finance Fund, Alliance for Green Revolution in Africa and Ardmore Capital Management LLC among others.

In addition to his many endeavours, which include advocacy and consultancy among others, Gumbo find time to engage in speaking Engagements as captured below:

● Presented a seminal paper on the recent developments in electoral law in Kenya to the Faculty of law Mount Kenya University of Kenya on 31st January, 2024.
● Presented a paper on the art of persuasion and legal drafting in a symposium organized by the Law Society of Kenya for advocates in private practice on the 9th June, 2023.
● Presented a paper on trial advocacy in a seminar for advocates in dispute resolution practice in Kenya on the 15th September, 2023.
● Presented a paper on employment law and practice in commercial banking institutions on the 29th November,2023.

Married with an enviable family of adorable children, Gumbo is a great sports enthusiast, with special bias to golf, which he plays voraciously. Golf, to him, is the next big time.

Africa needs Africans. African needs prolific Africans. Africa needs Eric Onyango Gumbo!

Boss Of The Week

Oba Clement Adesuyi Haastrup: A Disciplined King on a Mission

Published

2 weeks ago

March 16, 2025

Eric

By Eric Elezuo

Beyond ancestral qualification, the newly crowned Owa Obokun of Ijeshaland, the 49th in the series, Oba Clement Adesuyi Haastrup, is a man of many parts; focused, capable, disciplined, fulfilled and down to earth. He is typically the product of what patience can produce, as his emergence was via the efforts of respected kingmakers of Ìjẹ̀ṣàland with a seal of approval by the State Governor, Ademola Adeleke. The process of emergence was grounded in the deep rooted traditions and values of the Yoruba culture.

Named as the paramount ruler in December, 2024, and crown substantive royal father on January 5, 2025, the former Deputy Governor of Osun State, has proved to be a good choice, bringing to bear his years of entrepreneurship and political sagacity to bring development and all round growth to his kingdom.

Addressed as His Imperial Majesty, Oba Looja Clement Adesuyi Haastrup, Owa Ajimoko III, the Owa Obokun Adimula and Paramount Ruler of Ìjẹ̀ṣàland, the oba launches into leadership with a combined flair of experience, vision, and dedication to service, which has steadily elevated the kingdom within a short period.

The Oba, by every standard, is not a run-of-the-mill monarch, he well trained and ground in not a few sectors of human endeavours. Not only was a former number two man of his state, he is a distinguished entrepreneur, and founder of ENL Consortium, one of the leading terminal operators in Nigeria, which under his stewardship, the company played crucial roles in the nation’s trade and logistics renewal. Beyond these, Haastrup is also a trained Pharmacist.

The new oba, who is celebrated for his academic excellence and dynamic leadership, replaced Oba Gabriel Adekunle Aromolaran II, who passed on recently.

With a legacy of public service, entrepreneurial success, and philanthropic dedication, Oba Haastrup’s enthronement heralds a new era for Ijesaland. As the Owa Obokun, his vision and leadership promise to transform Ijesaland into a beacon of unity, innovation, and prosperity. The people of Ijesaland eagerly anticipate the dawn of a brighter future under his reign.

Oba Haastrup’s reign is poised to deliver unity, prosperity, and a thriving future for the kingdom, ensuring that Ijeshaland remains a beacon of cultural heritage and progress in Nigeria and beyond.

The Dawn Commission, on its website, captures the trajectory of the disciplined oba as follows:

Prince Clement Adesuyi Haastrup was born on September 19, 1948, into the illustrious Ajimoko royal family of Ijesaland in Osun State, Nigeria. His upbringing was steeped in the values of service, discipline, and leadership that are hallmarks of his royal lineage. From an early age, he exhibited the qualities of a visionary, a trait further nurtured by his family’s deep cultural heritage and Christian faith.

Oba Haastrup’s academic journey laid the groundwork for his remarkable career. He attended Eko Boys’ High School in Lagos from 1963 to 1967, where he demonstrated an exceptional commitment to learning and leadership. He furthered his education at the Federal School of Science and later pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Pharmacy at Howard University in Washington, D.C., graduating in 1974. Determined to expand his horizons, he spent several years in the United States, where he not only gained academic knowledge but also developed a global perspective and the discipline required for success.

Returning to Nigeria in 1981, Prince Haastrup immersed himself in public service. His political career gained prominence in 1990, when he was elected as the Deputy Governor of Osun State, serving under Governor Isiaka Adetunji Adeleke during the Third Republic.

In his capacity as Deputy Governor, Oba Haastrup championed significant reforms and spearheaded key initiatives that enhanced governance and public administration. His tenure saw him secure impactful public-private partnerships with federal agencies such as the Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN), the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), and the Federal Housing Authority (FHA). These achievements solidified his reputation as a pragmatic and results-oriented leader, earning him widespread admiration and paving the way for his transition into the private sector.

After leaving public office in 1992, Prince Haastrup turned his attention to the business world, where he continued to make significant contributions to Nigeria’s economic development. In 2002, he founded ENL Consortium Limited, initially focusing on utility management. Recognizing opportunities in Nigeria’s maritime sector, he expanded ENL’s operations to include port management and infrastructure development.

In 2006, ENL Consortium, under his visionary leadership, secured the concession for Terminals C and D at the Apapa Port Complex in Lagos. These terminals, which handle both general and containerized cargoes, have set benchmarks for efficiency in port operations.

The company’s innovative approach included:

Extensive rehabilitation of port infrastructure
Deployment of cutting-edge equipment
Introduction of labor reforms, which improved productivity and industrial harmony

Today, ENL Consortium operates one of the largest seaport facilities in West Africa, with 11 berths capable of handling between 9.7 and 11 meters of draft. The company has diversified into power generation, estate development, and hospitality, contributing to job creation and industrial growth in Nigeria.

Prince Haastrup’s contributions have earned him recognition as one of Nigeria’s foremost maritime magnates. His leadership in transforming port operations and enhancing transparency has positioned Nigerian ports as competitive global players. His efforts have not only improved Nigeria’s standing in the maritime industry but also generated significant revenue and fostered economic growth.

Through the Clement Adesuyi Haastrup Foundation (CAH Foundation), Oba Haastrup has impacted lives by awarding scholarships to over 500 students, enabling them to access higher education locally and internationally. His philanthropic initiatives extend to feeding the hungry and empowering the underprivileged, solidifying his reputation as a compassionate and community-orientated leader.

Oba Clement Adesuyi Haastrup emerged as the Owa Obokun of Ijeshaland following a meticulous selection process by the kingdom’s esteemed kingmakers. His selection was officially approved by Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State on December 27, 2024, after the passing of Oba Adekunle Aromolaran II on September 11, 2023.

The coronation ceremony, a grand and historic event graced by dignitaries from across Nigeria and beyond, included the presentation of the Staff of Office and Instrument of Appointment. This event marked the official commencement of his reign, accompanied by traditional rites, festivities, and cultural displays that highlighted the rich heritage of Ijesaland.

Oba Haastrup’s enthronement is a powerful blend of tradition and modernity. Building on the legacy of Oba Aromolaran II, who was renowned as the first Nigerian monarch to hold a Ph.D., Oba Haastrup brings a global perspective shaped by his illustrious career in governance and business. His leadership is underpinned by a vision to bring unity, prosperity, and innovation to Ijesaland.

Oba Haastrup’s reign is poised to usher in transformative change across the kingdom. Guided by decades of experience in governance and business, his priorities include:

Agricultural Modernization: Promoting mechanized farming to enhance food production and create jobs.
Infrastructure Development: Collaborating with stakeholders to improve roads, healthcare facilities, and schools.
Economic Empowerment: Encouraging investment and entrepreneurship to drive local economic growth.
Social Harmony: Fostering unity and resolving communal disputes to strengthen bonds within the community.

Oba Haastrup is married to Olori Vicky Haastrup, the Chairperson of the Seaport Terminal Operators Association of Nigeria (STOAN). The oba and his olori are blessed with wonderful children.

The Rise of Oba Looja Adesuyi Haastrup: A New Era of Progress for Ìjẹ̀ṣàland

Boss Of The Week

Accolades Trail Timi of Ede, Oba Munirudeen Lawal at 70

Published

2 months ago

February 16, 2025

Eric

By Eric Elezuo

Since January 2008 when he was announced the Timi of Ede, and March of the same year, when his coronation ceremony was held till the present, Oba Munirudeen Adesola Lawal, has maintained a solid profile, which has demonstrated his capabilities and capacity to reign over his people.

As a result, as the monarch turns 70, drums have been rolled out to appreciate his benevolence, candour and humanitarian disposition in the affairs of the kingdom.

Ceasing the moment, the Executive Governor of Osun State, Senator Ademola Adeleke, sent a heartwarming message to celebrate the landmark age as well as the monarch’s achievements in 15 years of rulership.

In a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, and titled ADELEKE CELEBRATES TIMI OF EDE ON HIS BIRTHDAY, the governor hailed the monarch as a distinguished leader with remarkable flair for development, acknowledging his visionary and purposeful style to rulership, which has greatly impacted on the lives of subjects over the years.

He also lauded him for entrenching sense of togetherness and patriotism, which has guided the physical development and economic progress the ancient town has seen in recent time while affirming the immeasurable benefit of the counsels of the monarch in enabling peace and tranquility in the state and beyond, commending his historical role in promoting Yoruba culture and traditions.

He said: “As Oba Munirudeen turns a new age, I join family, friends and well-wishers across the globe to felicitate with him. Oba Munirudeen is a leader who prioritise the interest of his subject, exploring every opportunity to impact the lives of his people and cause admirable progress for his domain,” Governor Adeleke was quoted as saying in a congratulatory message.

“By divine guidance and Kabiyesi’s leadership prowess, Ede land has enjoyed incredible progress over the years. On a personal note, Kabiyesi is a positive influence for me, as I am always inspired by his passion to make a difference in the lives of our people.”

Also celebrating the monarch on his great day, popular hip hop sensation, Davido, gifted him a brand new GAC GS8 SUV luxurious car with total demonstration of respect and admiration for the chief custodian of Ede tradition. It is important to note that Davido is a native of Ede.

As a follow-up to the celebrations, subjects, friends, well wishers and the general public organized a well deserved party for the monarch with notable personalities including Governor Adeleke, prominent Osun government officials, natives of Ede from all walks of life and members of the Nigerian entertainment circle.

On the band stand on the day was the highly sought-after music maker, Evangelist Ebenezer Obey among others.

The monarch, regally attired with all the paraphernalia of royalty was all smiles as he interacted with guests, impressed at the barefaced show of love.

THE MAN, OBA MUNIRUDEEN ADESOLA LAWAL

As derived from Wikipedia, Oba Lawal, Laminisa II, the Timi of Ede’s life trajectory is captured as follows:

Munirudeen Adesola Lawal was born on 10 February 1956 to the family of Prince Kareem Abefe Lawal of the Laminisa ruling house and Abibat Akanke Lawal from Ile Imole compound in Ede in present-day Osun State, Nigeria. He commenced his primary school education at LA Primary School, Obada Ede from where he proceeded to Seventh Day Adventist Grammar School, Ede and in 1968, he subsequently gained admission to Baptist High School, Ede, where he eventually completed his secondary school education in 1973 and subsequently obtained his Higher School Certificate(HSC) in 1975.In 1978, he enrolled into the Adeyemi College of Education to study mathematics and chemistry dducation. He later gained admission to Bayero University where he obtained a degree in library studies and mathematics in 1984. In 1988, he enrolled for and obtained a master’s degree in business administration from Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife.

In 1973 upon the completion of his secondary school, Munirudeen Adesola Lawal got an appointment into Universal Insurance Company, where he was trained as a policy seller. In October 1975,upon the completion of his HSC,he later got a job with the Osun Central Schools’ Board and was posted to Timi Agbale Grammar School as a mathematics and further mathematics teacher. He subsequently worked in Oba laoye Grammar School, Ede between 1991 and 1992; and later secured a job at the Polytechnic Iree in December, 1992, as lecturer 2, teaching mathematics and other courses and was there until January 2008 when he was named the Timi of Ede.

Munirudeen Adesola Lawal is a Muslim and he is married with children.

From all of us at The Boss, we wish the monarch many more years of fruitful leadership, and healthy endeavours.