By Eric Elezuo

A few days ago, Nigerians and indeed the entire world rose to celebrate a citizen of value, Chief Owolabi Salis, for becoming the first Nigerian to travel to space. But what many did not know is that the unassuming mega professional has a lot of firsts in his kitty; firsts that he hardly makes noise about.

Salis’ life has been one of transformation, transmuting from the courtroom as a ‘super lawyer’ to a politician, where he once eyed the seat of power in Lagos State, and now to an adventurer, floating at the edge of Earth’s atmosphere.

Salis, in one of the exclusive interviews he granted The Punch noted that traveling to space is just one of the many adventural firsts he has recorded in his life of impact.

“I’ve had a lot of firsts, only that I don’t make noise. I was the first Nigerian also to go to the South Pole and the North Pole within a season. The Russian people also told me I was the first Nigerian to take the nuclear icebreaker to the North Pole. I’m probably the first Nigerian to visit the two ice sheets in the world.

There are two ice sheets in the world – Antarctica and Greenland. So, I’m probably also the first Nigerian to visit Mars on Earth. There is a place in Antarctica, they call it Elephant Head; it is in Union Glacier. The condition there, we were told, is the same condition on Mars,” he revealed.

He added, “I’ve been to the North Pole, South Pole and Greenland; those are critical places in the world. I have been to space, and I have been under the ocean too. There are other Islands, a lot of small Islands surrounded by the ocean that are very spiritual.”

He had always maintained that his journeys are spiritual undertakings that are meant to elevate his spiritual outlook, and innovate more of the wonders of God.

“This mission is more than just a trip into space, it’s a spiritual journey, a call to inspire future generations…a convergence of science and spirit,” he said before liftoff.

Describing the journey as a historic first, not only for Salis, but for Nigeria, Space in Africa platform, said the Ikorodu-Lagos born explorer is a champion of community development and youth empowerment, who hopes his historic flight will ignite interest in space exploration across Africa.

It further noted, “Furthermore, Salis’ flight marks a key moment for Nigeria and Africa, demonstrating growing participation in space endeavours. His safe return sparked celebrations in Nigeria, with many hailing him as a national hero.

“The NS-33 mission patch featured green rings symbolising Earth’s horizon and the Kármán line, reflecting humanity’s quest to push boundaries. Blue Origin’s New Shepard programme continues to advance private spaceflight, offering research opportunities and citizen astronaut experiences. With 33 successful flights, the company remains a leader in reusable rocket technology and commercial space tourism. As interest in space grows across Africa, Salis’ journey may pave the way for more Africans, ushering in a new chapter of global inclusivity in space exploration.”

THE MAN, OWOLABI SALIS 

Narrations obtained from about.me, presented Owolabi Salis in the following light:

Famous Attorney Owolabi M. Salis is a philanthropist, qualified public accountant, and world traveler. He graduated from Ahmadu Bello University in Zaria, Nigeria, where he majored in accounting and obtained a bachelor’s and master’s degree. The legal and administrative faculties of Ahmadu Bello Institution are housed on the Kongo campus, a federal government research institution in Nigeria’s Kaduna State. Salis is widely recognized for his extensive philanthropic initiatives and unwavering commitment to community service. He is the visionary behind establishing the Niger Delta Peoples Development organization and consistently contributes to various crucial charitable causes. Beyond his legal profession and political consulting engagements, he finds solace and fulfillment in many hobbies and personal interests. He, an acclaimed attorney, assumes the role of managing the globally renowned law firm Salis Law, headquartered in New York City. Founded in 1992, the firm moved to the vibrant heart of New York in 2002. Situated in Brooklyn, Salis Law operates as a versatile general practice law firm, where he and his associates proficiently handle various legal matters spanning multiple specialized areas of the law. These include discrete management and the nuanced realm of private wealth management.

He obtained his Legum Baccalaureus in law from the University of Lagos in Lagos, Nigeria. Public research university The University of Lagos was established in 1962 and is regarded as one of the best institutions in the world. He is governed by the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, which has its main office in Washington, D.C., and is a New York State Bar Association member. Additionally, he is an American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) Certified Public Accountant. He commutes between Lagos, Nigeria, and New York, United States, as a licensed barrister at law, thanks to the Nigerian Council of Legal Education. Owolabi M. Salis is also recognized by the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria, where he received the ACA, the country’s equivalent of the chartered accountancy designation.

The Nigerian’s journey is a testimonial of bold ambition put to test and practice.

OWOLABI SALIS: AN OVERVIEW

1. He’s Nigeria’s first space traveller

In June 2025,  Salis made history as the first Nigerian to travel to space. He was one of six passengers on Blue Origin’s NS-33 mission, a suborbital flight that crossed the Kármán line — the recognised boundary of space.

2. A seasoned lawyer and chartered accountant

Salis is both a chartered accountant and an attorney, licensed to practise in Nigeria and the United States. His diverse professional background has given him a unique perspective on governance and social equity.

3. A familiar face in Lagos politics

For over two decades, Salis has been active in Lagos State politics. He contested the governorship multiple times under different parties, including the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)  in 2003 and 2007 and the Alliance for Democracy  in 2019, often championing themes of fairness and inclusion.

4. A record-breaking explorer

Beyond the courtroom and the campaign trail, Salis is an adventurer at heart. He previously became the first Black African to visit both the Arctic and Antarctic in the same season — a rare feat that reflects his appetite for pushing boundaries.

5. Author and advocate for equity

He is the author of Equitocracy, a book that argues for fairness and balance in democratic governance. Salis has described his space mission as a “spiritual journey” and hopes it will inspire young Africans to dream bigger — whether in politics, science, or exploration.

References: The Punch, Spaceinafrica.com and Businessday

By Eric Elezuo and Ruth Akpan

As a testament to the enduring impact and love the inimitable Speaker of the Osun House, Rt. Hon Adewale Olumide Egbedun, has garnered from those around him, and beyond, a heartfelt thanksgiving service and sumptuous reception were organised to celebrate his entry into the ruby age.

Consequently, the beautiful city of Osogbo became abuzz as residents and well-wishers across the country gathered to celebrate the charismatic Speaker as he clocked 40 – a milestone birthday celebrating a legacy of dedication and service.

With the background belief that his existence and achievements in life are traceable to one source, Egbedun spared no expence to return all the glory to God Almighty. He therefore, kickstarted the celebrations with a thanksgiving service.

Attended by prominent figures from Nigeria’s political and economic spheres, the day’s festivities commenced with the arrival of the charismatic celebrant at African Church, Asi, Osun State, where the thanksgiving service was held in his honour.

As the congregation rose to welcome him, the celebrant took to the podium to deliver the Read Only Lesson, showcasing his spiritual eloquence. Before sharing his reflections, he regaled the audience with his favorite hymn, filling the sanctuary with soulful harmony.

In a heartfelt and inspiring sermon, Archbishop Michael Adeyemi, a revered spiritual leader, highlighted the Speaker’s virtues, accomplishments and unwavering commitment to public service- words that visibly moved the congregation, underscoring the significance of gratitude and celebration.

Following the thanksgiving service, guests made their way to the Oasis Event Centre, Oroki Extensive, Osogbo, where a lavish reception awaited. The event kicked off with an opening prayer, setting the tone for a joyous celebration.

In commemoration of the special occasion, the celebrant received a special birthday message from the Governor of Osun State, Senator Ademola Adeleke. The message signed by Mallam Olawale Rasheed, Spokesperson to the Osun State Governor read:

“It’s hearty for me to celebrate an exceptional legislator, Rt. Hon. Olumide Adewale Egbedun, as he turns 40 years old today. While many may see the numbers, I see the lives that the numbers counted for, the contributions to our dear state that made up the numbers, and the inspiration that his life serves to many.

“From the time that the baton of leadership has been passed on to him, Rt. Hon. Egbedun has been remarkable, coordinating the House of Assembly in such a way that it aligns with our administration’s efforts to transform lives and move Osun state forward. I’m particularly impressed by the Speaker’s ability to foster cooperation and unite interests for the common good of impacting lives.

“As he turns 40 today, I want to take a moment to compliment him for his sincerity of purpose and the unwavering dedication to shaping the state’s future. It is my prayer that God grants him many more happy and rewarding years just as it is my hope that he will continue to make meaningful contributions, not just for Osun state, but Nigeria as a whole.”

Governor Adeleke recognises the Speaker’s down-to-earth nature and a remarkable sense of purpose, expressing his deep admiration for the celebrant’s ability to bring diverse perspectives together to drive the objective of moving Osun state forward.

The Governor salutes Speaker Egbedun for the remarkable leadership he has shown in the House of Assembly, fostering cooperation through dialogue, acknowledging the pivotal role that the 8th Assembly under the Speaker’s guidance has played in the monumental achievements recorded by this administration.

Also celebrating the young Speaker, the Osun Amotekun Corps, in a statement signed by the Public Relations Officer, Idowu Abass, the Board Chairman, AIG Wale Abbas (Rtd), alongside the Corps Commander, Chief Dr. Hon. Adekunle Isaac Omoyele, praised Egbedun for his outstanding leadership, unwavering commitment to democratic values, and his continued support for the advancement of security and good governance in Osun State.

Describing the Speaker as a man of the people and a progressive legislator, the Amotekun Corps leadership commended Egbedun’s instrumental role in the swift and successful passage of the amendment to the Osun Amotekun Corps Constitution. The amendment has significantly strengthened the legal and operational framework of the Corps, thereby enabling it to effectively discharge its constitutional responsibilities in safeguarding lives and properties across the state.

“The Osun Amotekun Corps acknowledges with deep appreciation the leadership qualities of Rt. Hon. Egbedun, particularly his understanding of the importance of local security initiatives and his resolve to support institutions working towards the protection of our communities,” the statement read.

“As Speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly, his legislative insight and people-oriented approach continue to inspire a new generation of leaders across Osun State. His dedication to upholding laws that foster security, peace, and development reflects his deep commitment to the growth and welfare of our dear state.”

The Corps leadership further wished Speaker Egbedun good health, more wisdom, and greater accomplishments in the years ahead as he continues to serve the people of Osun State with passion and distinction.

Happy 40th Birthday, Rt. Hon. Adewale Egbedun!

Everyone, including Yeyeluwa Modupeola Adeleke-Sanni, who was given an opportunity to share their thoughts about the Speaker spoke glowingly, praising his role in good leadership, dedication and steadfast commitment to public service.

The highlight of the evening was the cake-cutting ceremony supervised by the Executive Governor of Osun State, Senator Ademola Adeleke.

Anchored by Olalekan Fabilola (Masoyinbo), the evening was filled with laughter, music and merriment as guests were treated to a sumptuous spread of delectable cuisines and refreshing drinks.

The atmosphere was electric as the duo of renowned artists Dr. Yinka Ayefele and SB Live took to the stage to deliver captivating performances with their infectious rhythms and melodies.

In response, Hon Adewale Egbedun expressed his heartfelt gratitude to his family, friends, colleagues and well-wishers for making his 40th birthday a memorable occasion.

Hon Egbedun was born on June 29, 1985, becoming the Speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly at the age of 38 in June 2023.

By Eric Elezuo

The last couple of days had been designed by detractors to be a trying period for Fidelity Bank, and its indefatigable Chief Executive Officer, Mrs Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe, but hard work cannot be shortchanged as it ended up becoming a week of triumph for the a-list top lender commercial bank, and its top grade boss.

Onyeali-Ikpe has proved herself so remarkable in the triumphant journey of the Fidelity Bank group that she was rewarded with an extension of her employment contract in 2024. No doubt, Mrs Onyeali-Ikpe, reputed as a solid amazon in the finance sector, and a go-getter, has seen and conquered the banking arena, and is honoured among veterans as a solid foundation in Nigeria’s money business.

It would be recalled that recently, she led the bank to 238% oversubscription of the bank shares; a feat that has been described as unprecedented.

“We are delighted to announce the successful completion of the first phase of our capital raising initiatives through a Public Offer and Rights Issue. The positive result recorded in our Combined Offer is a testament to the strength of the Fidelity Bank franchise in the capital market. It is both gratifying and humbling to note this level of investor confidence in our Bank. We extend sincere gratitude to our investors for their continued confidence in the Bank, as evidenced by the 237.92% and 137.73% oversubscription of our Public Offer and Rights Issue respectively. As we go into the next phase of our capital raising drive, we reaffirm our commitment to providing cutting-edge financial solutions to our customers and sustainable returns to our stakeholders,” Onyeali-Ikpe noted.

These triumps have triggered negative reactions from a cross section of most uninformed players in the industry to begin a campaign of calumny. During the week, an online news platform claimed that Mrs Onyeali-Ikpe violated one of the listing rules of the Nigerian Exchange (NGX) Limited with the acquisition of fresh 18 million equities of the company. This is while the financial amazon was striking a master stroke to lift Fidelity Bank to maximum level of achievement.

Responding, through a notice to the Nigerian Exchange (NGX), which literally exonerated the bank, the lender described the report as “patently false, misleading and malicious,” clarifying that Mrs Onyeali-Ikpe did not take “personal advantage of material price sensitive information to engage in insider trading” as being alleged.

In a show of transparency and accountability, Onyeali-Ikpe’s Fidelity requested an independent review of the transaction by the NGX. From its findings, the stock exchange cleared the company and Mrs Onyeali-Ikpe of any wrongdoing.

In a letter dated May 22, 2025, the regulator dismissed allegations of insider trading and the misuse of bank funds for the transaction, saying, “Following the filing of the bank’s 2025 Q1 UFS on April 30, 2025, the directors and other insiders of the bank became eligible to trade on the securities of the bank after 24 hours.

“Therefore, the share purchase transaction referenced by Sahara Reporters which occurred on May 19, 2025, was transacted during an open trading window and NGX RegCo is not aware of any other price sensitive information that the Bank is required to disclose which should hinder trades on the securities of the bank by insiders.”

Additionally, the Divisional Head of Brand and Communications for Fidelity Bank, Mr Meksley Nwagboh, in a statement, also disclosed that, “As a publicly quoted company regulated by the NGX and subject to the Listing Rules of the NGX and the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) regulations, we unequivocally confirm that neither the Bank nor its MD/CEO has ever engaged in insider trading.”

He also stressed that Mrs Onyeali-Ikpe personally funded the share purchase and did not utilize bank funds or take a loan for the share purchase, reaffirming that the deal was conducted in strict adherence to the Listing Rules and insider trading regulations governing publicly traded companies.

While the naysayers were plotting her downfall, Onyeali-Ikpe was busy elevating Fidelity Bank, and giving investors reason to sleep with both eyes closed.

Born on July 28, 1964, Nneka, as beloved and close family members, friends and colleagues fondly call her, is a force to reckon with, and has in a space of 32 years and counting, of career banking, brought to bear all the stops that make for great banking and financial experience, climbing to the topmost echelon of investment banking and related areas.

Fidelity Bank Plc knows this, and announced its decision after a thorough Board of Directors’ meeting to extend the employment contract of the ebullient achiever from 2024 to 2026. It won’t come as a shock if by 2026 when the tenure expires, the board decides to further extend the tenure.

The Board had noted, and without equivocation, that it is confident that the Bank’s performance will continue its upward trajectory under Dr. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe’s leadership, and looks forward to working closely with her and the Executive Management Team on execution of various strategic initiatives including international expansion. They were not wrong.

Before attaining the enviable GMD with Fidelity Bank, Onyeali-Ikpe had out of dint of hardwork, paid her dues from lesser positions.

She began her career in 1990, when she was employed as a legal officer for the now-defunct African Continental Bank. She later worked as a treasury officer for the First African Trust Bank, and thereafter joined Zenith Bank, and subsequently the Standard Chartered Bank. Her experience in the course of her sojourn are combined to make her a toast of the banking industry today.

Having cut her teeth, and garnered a lot of experience and goodwill, she was in 2011, absorbed by Enterprise Bank as an Executive director of the bank’s operations in Lagos and other locations in the South-Western region in Nigeria. She wasted no time in turning around the fortunes of the bank.

In January, 2015, Onyeali-Ikpe joined Fidelity Bank as an Executive Director, and rose through the ranks until she was announced the Managing Director in December, 2020. Following her appointment, Nneka became the first female MD/CEO in the history of the bank.

Presently, Dr Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe, with the national honour of Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON) is the Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Fidelity Bank Plc, a foremost financial institution with a client base of over about nine million customers.

Apart from her Law degrees, from the prestigious University of Nigeria, Nsukka and Kings College, Onyeali-Ikpe has also attended executive training programs at Harvard Business School, The Wharton School University of Pennsylvania, INSEAD School of Business, Chicago Booth School of Business, London Business School and IMD amongst others.

It is worthy of note that she recently completed a Diploma programme in Organizational Leadership at Said Business School, Oxford University, UK and received an honorary doctorate degree in Business Administration at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN). She is also the recipient of the national award of the Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON) which was awarded to her by the Federal Government of Nigeria in 2023.

With close to 34 years of rewarding banking experience through Enterprise Bank, Citizens International Bank, Zenith Bank and Standard Chartered Bank among others, the woman is surely a force to reckon with.

A woman of many parts, Onyeali-Ikpe has also been involved in the structuring of complex transactions in Oil and Gas, Manufacturing, Aviation, Real Estate and Export among many others.

She is, without an iota of doubt, widely regarded as one of Africa’s leading female CEOs with a reputation for authentic leadership and proven people skills in identifying talents, opportunities and executing complex business deals. She has extensive business development experience with proficiency in retail, corporate and commercial banking and treasury management among others.

LANDMARK ACHIEVEMENTS IN FIDELITY BANK

Under Nneka’s watch, the Bank grew its PBT from N25.22bn in FY 2021 to N122bn in FY 2023. Nneka has now set her horizon on leveraging the opportunities in select high growth international markets where the Bank has a competitive advantage. She most recently guided the bank to obtain the approval of the Central Bank of Nigeria to expand its operations to the United Kingdom with the acquisition of the former Union Bank UK, now Fidelity Bank UK Limited.

Passionate about innovation and embracing technology, Nneka has pioneered several innovative and pacesetting products such as the PayGate Plus, an online platform that enables businesses make and receive payments.

Dr. Onyeali-Ikpe has also radically repositioned the bank as the go-to financial institution for Small and Medium Enterprises. Understanding the crucial role of small businesses in the sustenance of economic growth and development, she led the bank to create the Fidelity International Trade & Creative Connect (FITCC) which is aimed at providing a global platform for exporters, regulators, subject matter experts and foreign markets to connect.

The FITCC 2022 edition was attended by representatives of both the UK & the Nigerian Governments, Nigerian exporters, investors, regulators from the United Kingdom and Nigeria, the business community and other practitioners. The pipeline deals from the event was in excess of $200m. Over 2,000 people registered to attend the event and daily foot-fall was about 1,000.

The second edition of FITCC, which was hosted in Houston, Texas, United States of America in October 2023, was even bigger with projected pipeline deals of over $250m and more than 160 businesses in participation. Tagged, FITCC Houston, the success of the event is signposted by the designation of 25 October 2023 as the “Fidelity International Trade and Creative Connect Day” by Mr. Sylvester Turner, Mayor of Houston.

HER CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY EFFORTS

In her bid to give back to the communities the Bank serves and as part of her efforts to combat the twin issues of poverty and hunger, Dr. Onyeali-Ikpe recently launched a National Corporate Social Responsibility initiative tagged The Fidelity Food Bank which provides free food bags to people across Nigeria monthly.

In recognition of her leadership and outstanding performance, she received commendation from AMCON as a member of the Management Team that restructured and turned around the fortunes of the erstwhile Enterprise Bank. She also received several board commendations from the Managing Directors of Standard Chartered Bank and Citizens International Bank for outstanding performance at various times.

FIDELITY AWARDS UNDER ONYEALI-IKPE’S WATCH

With Onyeali-Ikpe as the Chief Executive Officer, Fidelity Bank has been the recipient of several awards within and outside Nigeria some of which are:

1. Best Commercial Banking Brand in Nigeria by the Global Brands Magazine Awards

2. Best Private Bank in Nigeria by The Financial Times in association with The Banker Magazine

3. Trade Ambassador Award by the Nigerian-American Chamber of Commerce (NACC)

4. Global Finance’s World’s Best Private Banks 2023 awards for Best Private Bank in Nigeria

5. The Best Payment Solution Provider Nigeria 2023 in the 2023 Global Banking & Finance Awards

6. Export Finance Bank of the Year at the BusinessDay and Other Financial Institutions’ (BAFI) Awards 2023.

7. The “Fastest Growing Bank” and “MSME & Entrepreneurship Financing Bank of the Year” at the 2021 BusinessDay Banks and Other Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards.

The Awards are still counting.

PERSONAL RECOGNITIONS AND AWARDS

On her own part, Dr. Onyeali-Ikpe has been recognized by numerous local and international bodies for her sterling achievements. These include:

1. The national award of the Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON) by the Federal Government of Nigeria in 2023.

2. The Banker of the Year 2022 at the 14th Leadership Annual Conference and Awards and

3. The Best Banking CEO Nigeria 2023 in the 2023 Global Banking & Finance Awards.

4. 2023 Top 25 CEOs in Nigeria at the BusinessDay Awards

5. The Banker of the Year 2022 at the Champion Newspapers’ Awards of the Year 2022.

Considering her versatility, industry knowledge and vast network, she also serves on the following Committees and organizations:

1. Chairperson, Financial Literacy and Public Enlightenment Sub-Committee of the CBN Bankers Committee.
2. Chairperson, Funds and Grants Committee of the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria
3. Member, Audit Committee of FMDQ Group PLC
4. Member of the Board, Shared Agent Network Expansion Facilities (SANEF)
5. Member of the Board, Unified Payment Services Limited

PERSONAL LIFE

Onyeali-Ikpe is married to Dr. Ken Onyeali Ikpe, PhD, a visionary leader with strong business acumen and respected for his demonstrated knowledge in Marketing, Branding and Consumer Consulting and Business acceleration.

She is a celebrated wife and mother, who has combined home duties with professional endeavours without allowing any to suffer.