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.
The Ooni of Ife, Adeyeye Ogunwusi, has announced the birth of twin princes with his wife Mariam Ajibola, to the Royal House of Oduduwa.
The monarch disclosed this in a post shared on his official Facebook page on Friday, expressing gratitude to God for the safe delivery of the children and the wellbeing of their mother.
“To God be all the glory and adoration for His wondrous works and abundant blessings once again.
The announcement has drawn congratulatory messages from admirers and members of the Yoruba royal institution celebrating the arrival of the newborn princes.
After his marriage to Naomi Silekunola ended, the Ooni married several queens within a short period in 2022.
Among the queens are Mariam Anako, Elizabeth Akinmuda, Tobiloba Phillips, Ashley Adegoke, Ronke Ademiluyi and Temitope Adesegun.
During celebrations marking his 48th birthday and seventh coronation anniversary, the monarch explained that his marriages were connected to the traditional heritage and responsibilities attached to the throne of Ile-Ife.
Nigerian entrepreneur, Femi Otedola, has reportedly acquired a mansion in London valued at £53 million, further strengthening the presence of wealthy Nigerian investors in the United Kingdom’s luxury property market.
According to a report by Bloomberg on Thursday, the property is located in St John’s Wood, one of London’s most exclusive residential districts situated close to Regent’s Park.
The report stated that the transaction was concluded late last year, citing a UK filing.
The mansion reportedly features 10 bedrooms alongside luxury facilities including a cinema, spa and cigar room. The property was previously placed on the market for £75 million in 2020, according to media reports.
Otedola is the chairman and majority shareholder of First HoldCo Plc, with business interests spanning finance, energy, shipping and insurance brokerage.
The acquisition comes amid sustained activity in London’s luxury real estate sector despite increased property taxes and adjustments to tax policies affecting foreign residents.
Prime areas such as St John’s Wood, Belgravia and Chelsea continue to attract ultra-wealthy buyers from across the world, with multimillion-pound transactions remaining common in the high-end housing market.
The latest purchase also adds to Otedola’s collection of luxury assets and reflects the continued attraction of London’s upscale neighbourhoods to affluent Nigerian businessmen and corporate executives.
In recent years, several Nigerian business figures have been associated with expensive property acquisitions in the UK capital.
In 2025, Roosevelt Ogbonna, the Chief Executive Officer of Access Bank, was also reported to have acquired a £15 million property in Hampstead, another affluent area in London popular among wealthy foreign investors.
St John’s Wood, where Otedola’s mansion is located, is widely known for its luxury detached homes, privacy and proximity to landmarks such as Regent’s Park and the Lord’s Cricket Ground.
Bloomberg
Personality in Focus
Aare EmmanuelKing Congratulates Olofin of Ilisan Remo, Oba Sonuga, on 86th Birthday
The Borokinni of Ilishan Remo, Sir Aare Adetola EmmanuelKing KOF, has extended warm birthday felicitations to the Olofin of Ilisan Remo, His Royal Majesty, Oba (Dr.) Barr. Michael Olufemi Mojeed Sonuga Daniyan II, as the revered monarch celebrates his 86th birthday anniversary.
In a statement released to commemorate the royal father’s birthday, Aare Adetola EmmanuelKing described the monarch as a symbol of peace, wisdom, progress, and exemplary royal leadership, whose reign has continued to bring honor and development to Ilisan Remo.
According to him, since ascending the revered throne of his forefathers, the Olofin has consistently demonstrated purposeful leadership and unwavering commitment to the unity, growth, and cultural advancement of the kingdom, while fostering peace and harmony among the people.
He further noted that the monarch’s reign has inspired pride and confidence among indigenes of Ilisan Remo both at home and in the diaspora, adding that Kabiyesi’s dedication to community development and preservation of tradition remains highly commendable.
The Borokinni prayed for continued divine grace, sound health, long life, and greater wisdom for the royal father as he continues his impactful reign on the throne of his ancestors.
“On behalf of my family, associates, and well-wishers, I heartily congratulate His Royal Majesty, Oba (Dr.) Barr. Michael Olufemi Mojeed Sonuga Daniyan II, the Olofin of Ilisan Remo, on the joyous occasion of his 86th birthday. May Almighty God continue to strengthen Kabiyesi with peace, sound health, and many more years of fruitful reign,” he stated.
