LAGOS, Nigeria – Dr. Sijibomi Ogundele, Group Managing Director of Sujimoto Holdings, has challenged Nigerian entrepreneurs to rethink their approach to employee welfare, arguing that people—not profits—are the ultimate measure of a company’s success.
In a recent address, Ogundele emphasized that genuine investment in staff well-being—through equity, long-term support, and compassion—is the cornerstone of sustainable business growth. “Employees are not just workers; they are legacy-builders,” he stated.
Loyalty Goes Beyond Paychecks
Recalling a Zoom meeting with his executives, Ogundele shared how he once requested a list of employees who had stayed with Sujimoto for over three years—a move initially mistaken for impending layoffs. “This wasn’t about cutting jobs; it was about honoring commitment,” he clarified.
Today, Sujimoto covers rent and school fees for 20+ employee families, with plans to expand support for unseen personal struggles. “The economy is tough, but our humanity must be tougher,” Ogundele urged.
Defying the “Disloyal Staff” Myth
Pushing back against the notion that Nigerian workers lack loyalty, he cited examples of junior staff who used personal funds to keep operations running during crises. “That’s not just dedication—that’s legacy,” he said. Despite economic downturns forcing staff reductions from 900 to 100, long-term retention remains high, with some employees staying nearly a decade.
Growth Amid Challenges
Ogundele remains bullish on Sujimoto’s future, spotlighting landmark projects like:
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Lucrezia: Banana Island’s tallest residential tower (launching soon).
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Sujimoto Twin Towers & Queen Amina: Northern Nigeria’s future tallest building.
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Motopay: A fintech scan-to-pay solution.
These ventures, he noted, will create 2,000+ jobs and diversify into cement, smart cities, and infrastructure.
A Call to Redefine Success
Ogundele called for a shift from compensation to ownership, urging employers to help staff buy homes, secure education, and build generational wealth. “Salary feeds you, but ownership frees you,” he asserted.
His closing challenge to fellow entrepreneurs: “What are you doing for those building your dream? Until you invest in your people, you haven’t truly started building wealth.”
Background: Dr. Ogundele, the force behind projects like Giuliano and Sujimoto Farm, continues to reshape Nigeria’s real estate and economic landscape through innovative, people-first strategies.
