Respected businessman Osahon Hosa Okunbo has declared that entrepreneurship is about finding a niche problem and solving it. He said this during his acceptance speech at the New Telegraph Newspaper’s Award, where he was honoured as “Young Entrepreneur of the Year” in a soirée that brought together Nigeria’s political and business elite at the Lagos Oriental Hotel on Friday, February 21.
The high-profile ceremony, attended by distinguished personalities including Senators Orji Uzor Kalu, Adams Oshiomole, Mr Mele Kyari, and Chief Bode George, celebrated Okunbo’s remarkable achievements across multiple sectors of the Nigerian economy.
“I never set out to chase recognition—I set out to build something real, something that mattered,” Okunbo said in his acceptance speech. “Entrepreneurship isn’t just about starting businesses; it’s about solving problems, creating opportunities, and making a lasting impact.”
With over 15 years of board and management experience, he has established himself as a formidable force in Nigeria’s business landscape. His portfolio spans various industries, including oil and gas services, facilities engineering, procurement, construction, hospitality, agriculture, and aviation. Under his leadership, his companies have successfully executed projects valued at over $4 billion and currently employ more than 6,000 Nigerians.
A holder of a Masters Degree in Electrical Engineering from Manchester University, Okunbo serves as director of several prominent companies including Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Ltd, Delta Pacific Maritime Ltd, and Genesis Hydrocarbons Nigeria Ltd. He is also actively involved in the development of the Egbolom field, the largest marginal field in the 2020 marginal field bid round.
Beyond his business pursuits, Okunbo has demonstrated a commitment to social development through the Osa Okunbo Foundation, which focuses on education, youth empowerment, and infrastructure development in Benin City, Edo State.
“This award is not just mine; it belongs to every mentor, partner, friend, and team member who stood beside me,” Okunbo remarked, adding, “This is just the beginning.”
