LAGOS — The career of Engr. Joshua Oyakhilomhen serves as a blueprint for the modern Nigerian “technopreneur”—a professional who bridges the gap between manual technical expertise and high-level business management. From his roots in Uromi, Edo State, Oyakhilomhen has built a diversified empire that spans the structural integrity of the construction sector and the fast-paced logistics of the automotive industry.
His journey is marked by a “bottom-up” approach, starting with a foundational education in brick and concrete laying at a Federal Technical College before advancing to his current standing as a versatile engineer and CEO.
Construction: From Foundation to Finish
Oyakhilomhen’s professional background in construction is defined by a focus on “functional aesthetics.” His portfolio includes:
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Commercial Lounges & Restaurants: Delivering high-traffic hospitality spaces for a demanding Nigerian clientele.
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Structural Facilities: Engineering diverse projects across Nigeria that prioritize durability and efficiency.
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Technical Roots: His early specialization in concrete works has provided a rare technical depth that allows him to oversee complex sites with the eye of a practitioner and a manager.
Diversifying into Mobility: EL-GATO AUTOS
Reflecting the trend of “sector-hopping” seen among successful Nigerian entrepreneurs in 2026, Oyakhilomhen has successfully pivoted into the automotive sector. As the head of EL-GATO AUTOS, he manages:
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Sales & Logistics: Specializing in both passenger cars and heavy-duty trucks to serve Nigeria’s growing transport needs.
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Professional Consultation: Offering data-backed advice to help clients navigate the fluctuating automotive market and FX-driven price shifts.
The “Uromi Discipline”: A Legacy of Resilience
Oyakhilomhen attributes his success to a 2013 conversation with his father that defined his “zero-delay” philosophy. Growing up working alongside his parents to meet family responsibilities, he learned that “time waits for no one.”
Recognitions & Institutional Impact:
His commitment to social and professional development has earned him accolades from major institutions across Edo State and beyond:
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Academic Honors: Recognition from the AAU Medical Faculty and the University of Benin Comrade Community.
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Student Leadership: Awards from the National Association of Edo State Students (NAESS) and NIDSUG.
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Network Excellence: Commendations from the Ransko Network for his contributions to industrial innovation.
Entrepreneurial Scorecard: Engr. Joshua Oyakhilomhen
| Sector | Venture / Role | Core Impact |
| Construction | Engineering Lead | Infrastructure delivery in the hospitality sector. |
| Automotive | EL-GATO AUTOS | Streamlining vehicle acquisition and logistics. |
| Consulting | Auto Consultant | Helping businesses manage mobility assets. |
| Philanthropy | Community Supporter | Supporting student associations and medical faculties. |
Forward Vision: Expansion and Innovation
With expansion plans currently underway, Oyakhilomhen remains focused on self-improvement and scaling his operations across the West African sub-region. His journey underscores a core 2026 theme: that technical mastery is the most stable foundation for business innovation.
