As the year rapidly approaches its close, a new book is serving as required reading for those striving to “make it big” in the African business landscape. Chioma Nwokedi Momah, a recognized public policy expert and leadership coach, has provided an illuminating review of Femi Otedola’s memoir, Making It Big, highlighting the billionaire’s surprising path to prominence and his refreshingly honest lessons on wealth creation and governance.
Momah, who read the book as part of her personal commitment to improving her own money mindset, noted the distinct value of learning from successful leaders. The book takes readers deep into the world of Olufemi Peter Otedola CON, one of Nigeria’s most influential multi-billionaires, demonstrating that his success is rooted in hard-earned experience, not just fortune.
The memoir traces Otedola’s journey from humble beginnings—including cutting the nails of his father’s friends and running a small printing press—to eventually overseeing multi-billion-naira enterprises. Momah highlighted a particularly surprising revelation: Otedola never completed secondary school or attended university. Despite the initial heartbreak this caused his mother, his innate entrepreneurial instincts, nurtured by his father, set him on an unconventional but ultimately successful path.
What truly distinguishes Making It Big, according to Momah, is its candor. Otedola does not shy away from discussing his failures and mistakes, particularly those stemming from building businesses without proper structure.
“Otedola does not shy away from discussing his mistakes, especially those that came from building businesses without structure,” Momah noted. The book details how poor systems and lack of governance nearly derailed his ventures and how he was forced to rebuild by prioritizing solid governance frameworks, capable teams, and rigorous due diligence—a crucial lesson for rapid-growth African startups.
Furthermore, the memoir reveals the central role of philanthropy and faith in Otedola’s life. While the extensive list of charitable acts might initially seem gratuitous, Momah found that his genuine commitment to giving shines through, citing an instance where Otedola was deeply upset after being unable to fulfill a donation promise due to being in debt, only to honor it later once his financial stability was regained. This detail reveals a notable thread of vulnerability and spiritual commitment throughout his story.
The book is structured around 23 actionable life lessons, covering topics such as Start Small, Keep Dreaming, and Know Your Market. It culminates with the lesson, Appreciate the God Factor, which Momah identifies as the spiritual underpinning of Otedola’s success.
The business titan is also remarkably forthright in his personal advice, naming those who offered support and those who betrayed him. Otedola shares wisdom on maintaining integrity, prioritizing good health, choosing one’s company wisely, and the necessity of listening to one’s inner voice. He also issues a stark warning, cautioning against distractions like philandering, which he states can destroy focus, family, and ultimately, fortune.
Ultimately, Momah recommends the book as an invaluable tool for aspiring business leaders seeking to improve their financial mindset by learning from a powerful, real-life example of resilience and ambition.
