Personality in Focus
BusinessDay Recognises Nestlé Boss, Wassim Elhusseini, Among Top 25 CEOs
Nestlé Nigeria has announced that its Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Wassim Elhusseini, has been recognized as one of the Outstanding CEOs at the recent BusinessDay Top 25 CEO Awards held on September 28, 2024.
The BusinessDay Top 25 CEO Awards 2024 acknowledges the achievements of CEOs from companies listed on the Nigerian Stock Exchange (NGX) and the Next Bulls category—an elite group of companies poised for listing on the NGX. These CEOs have not only navigated the complexities of today’s business landscape but have also steered their organizations toward remarkable success.
This recognition comes during a time when many businesses are scaling back operations, yet Nestlé Nigeria has continued to push the boundaries, investing in both its people and innovative product development.
In the first half of 2024, the company reported strong growth, with a remarkable 67% increase in second-quarter sales year-on-year, despite the challenging business environment. These results underscore the strength of Nestlé Nigeria’s brands, and the trust placed in them by consumers, reflecting the company’s unwavering commitment to delivering quality products while navigating industry-wide disruptions.
Speaking after receiving the prestigious award, Mr. Elhussieni said “This recognition is not just a personal honor, but a testament to the resilience, dedication, and unwavering spirit of the entire Nestlé Nigeria family. Despite the challenges we have faced as an industry, our performance, especially in the first half of 2024, is proof that with a focus on innovation, operational excellence, and the hard work of our employees, we can continue to thrive. I am immensely proud of what we have achieved together, and this award belongs to every employee, partner, and stakeholder who has believed in our vision.”
Nestlé Nigeria’s achievements extend beyond financial performance. The company has been at the forefront of innovation, launching several new products that have resonated with consumers. Additionally, Nestlé Nigeria remains committed to talent development, research, and creating shared value in the communities it does business.
“We believe in the power of community and the importance of creating shared value,” added Mr. Elhusseini. “Our initiatives in education, nutrition, and environmental sustainability are making a positive impact on the lives of many Nigerians.”
Instituted in 2014 by BusinessDay Media Limited, the Top 25 CEO Awards recognizes leaders who exhibit exceptional courage, forward-thinking strategy, and an unwavering commitment to the growth and sustainability of their organizations. Wassim Elhusseini’s leadership through one of the most difficult years in the industry underscores the values that have made Nestlé Nigeria a trusted name in households across the nation.
Pascal Dozie, a renowned Nigerian entrepreneur and business leader has died. He was 86.
According to sources close to the deceased, Dozie died a battle with old age-related illness.
Dozie, was a man of many parts, best known for founding Diamond Bank and serving as chairman of Pan-Atlantic University.
He was born on April 9, 1939, in Egbu, Owerri, Imo State, Nigeria. Dozie’s educational background includes a degree in Economics from the London School of Economics and a master’s in Administrative Science from City University in London.
Dozie also founded theAfrican Development Consulting Group, which worked with notable clients like Nestle and Pfizer. He served as MTN Group chairman but later resigned and was succeeded by Ernest Ndukwe.
Dozie received the prestigious National Award of the Order of the Niger (OON) for his contributions to Nigeria’s banking industry.
Dozie is survived by his wife Chinyere Dozie, and five children among other relatives.
A former governor of Oyo State, Dr. Victor Olunloyo, is dead.
According to a statement by his family on Sunday, he died a few days before his 90th birthday.
The statement titled ‘Victor Olunloyo goes home’ was signed by Oladapo Ogunwusi on behalf of the family.
It read, “With a heavy heart but gratitude to the Almighty, we announce the passing into glory of Dr. Victor Omololu Olunloyo, former governor of Oyo State, mathematician and engineer and renowned technocrat, a few days before his 90th birthday.
“The Balogun of Oyo and Otun Bobasewa of Ife, Dr. Olunloyo was first Rector, Ibadan polytechnic and first Rector, Kwara State Polytechnic among other notable appointments.
“His long record of service to the nation and humanity is a source of pride to his family and associates even as we come to grip with this devastating event.
“The Olunloyo family will appreciate the understanding of the press and the public as they commence efforts to give him a befitting burial.
“Even from everlasting to everlasting, He is God.”
About a year ago in April 2024, the rumour of the death of the elder statesman was reported by some news platforms.
But speaking with The PUNCH correspondent who visited his Molete residence in Ibadan, the state capital, he debunked the rumour, saying he was hale and hearty.
“I’m still here, not yet gone,” he declared then.
He also expressed worry over the rumour and asked who would live forever, stressing, “Those breaking death news and the person presumed dead will all die one day.
“I’ve been lucky. My father died at 42, while my mother died at 102. I’m 89. I’ve crossed the expected life age.”
The elder statesman also illustrated how the rumour of his death hit several news platforms on June 7, 2022.
He noted that the rumour mongers claimed that he died at the University College Hospital, Ibadan.
A few days later, the family issued a statement, declaring that he was not dead but suffering from old age ailment and asked Nigerians to pray for him to survive the health complications.
The leadership of the Real Estate Developers Association of Nigeria (REDAN), has congratulated Aare Adetola Emmanuel-King as he clocked 50 years.
Speaking on behalf of the Association,
President & Chairman of Council, Prince Akintoye Adeoye, celebrated Emmanuel-King’s passion and dedication, which continues to inspire the real estate sector.
Below is the detailed statement:
It is with great pleasure that I, Prince Akintoye Adeoye, President and Chairman of Council of the Real Estate Developers Association of Nigeria (REDAN), on behalf of the entire Association, extend my warmest birthday wishes to you.
As you celebrate your birthday today, we recognize your outstanding contributions to the real estate industry. Your visionary leadership in making homeownership accessible and building Adron Homes & Properties into a leading brand sets a high standard for excellence. Your passion and dedication continue to inspire many of us in the real estate sector.
Today is not just a birthday; it is a celebration of your remarkable achievements, wisdom, and the abundant grace of God. From a visionary start to shaping the future of affordable housing in Nigeria, your leadership in the real estate sector has been ground-breaking.
REDAN is proud to recognize your invaluable contributions to the real estate sector and our association. As you step into this new age, may you be blessed with continued success and even greater accomplishments in all your endeavors.
Turning 50 is a momentous occasion, offering a time for reflection on the many successes and cherished memories that have shaped your journey. At REDAN, we wish you continued good health, wisdom, and divine grace as you keep contributing to the advancement of the real estate sector and our beloved nation.
May this year and the ones ahead be filled with even greater achievements, joy, and fulfillment.
Once again, happy 50th birthday, Aare Adetola Emmanuel King.
