Billionaire businessman, Femi Otedola, has disclosed how his late father, former governor of Lagos state, Michael Otedola, contributed to his success story.
According to Otedola, his father gave him a loan of £250,000, which enabled him to build Zenon Petroleum into one of Nigeria’s most prominent oil trading companies.
Otedola disclosed this in his memoir, ‘Making It Big: Lessons from a Life in Business,’ which was released on August 18 and has already ranked number three on Amazon’s ‘Best Sellers in Business Biographies and Memoirs. ’
The book, which blends personal narrative with business insights, traces his rise from modest beginnings to becoming a billionaire in his early 40s.
It also highlights his commitments to education, healthcare, and community development, which he describes as an essential part of his leadership and legacy.
Reflecting on the £250,000 lifeline from his father, Otedola said the support gave him the confidence to seize opportunities in the fuel retail market.
Combining lessons on leadership, resilience and risk-taking, he also recalls how he backed his daughter, Florence Otedola (DJ Cuppy), with ₦10 million for her first major show at 16, an experience he described as a lesson in perseverance despite its poor turnout.
Otedola noted that mentorship and financial backing, which shaped his journey, remain central to how he supports his children and guides the next generation.
© 2025 Naijaonpoint, a division of NOP Media Inc. Contact us via [email protected]