Nigerian billionaire Femi Otedola is pulling back the curtain on his rags-to-riches journey with his new book, Making It Big, now available for pre-order. Priced at $27.99 (hardcover) and $19.99 (paperback), the memoir blends personal anecdotes with hard-earned business lessons—from his first billion to dramatic losses and comebacks. Readers who order within 10 days of August 18, 2025, will get early delivery.
More Than a Memoir
Otedola calls the book a “guide for the next generation”, offering candid insights into his mindset during crises, like losing his fortune and rebuilding it. On social media, he teased: “Doors are opening for African entrepreneurs like never before. This is the story of how I walked through them—and the stumbles along the way.”
The Otedola Legacy
A self-made tycoon, Otedola hit his first billion by 41 after founding Zenon Petroleum, which once supplied 90% of Nigeria’s diesel. His empire expanded with Forte Oil, power investments (Geregu Power Plc), and finance (FirstHoldco). Notably, he became the youngest Nigerian on Forbes’ global billionaire list—a record he still holds.
Beyond Business
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Philanthropy: Donated $14M to Save the Children U.K. (2019) and funds scholarships for underprivileged youth.
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Vision: Advocates for Africa’s energy and financial sectors as keys to growth.
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Next Chapter: His companies, like Geregu Power, saw profits soar to $26.8M in 2024, while FirstHoldco breaks ground on a 44-story HQ in Eko Atlantic.
Making It Big isn’t just about wealth—it’s a testament to resilience, strategy, and lifting others. As Otedola puts it: “Success means nothing if it isn’t shared.”
