Forbes has recently revealed its 2024 ForbesBLK 50 list, showcasing the most influential and financially successful Black Americans.
Among the honorees, three Nigerians have secured prominent spots, highlighting their achievements in diverse industries.
Adebayo Ogunlesi, with an impressive net worth of $1.7 billion, is recognized for his pioneering work in global infrastructure investment.
As the chairman and co-founder of Global Infrastructure Partners (GIP), Ogunlesi played a key role in the firm’s transformative acquisition by BlackRock in 2024, valued at $12.5 billion.
His leadership in the investment sector continues to set new benchmarks.
Tope Awotona, the visionary founder and CEO of Calendly, has redefined the way people approach scheduling, earning a net worth of $1.4 billion.
His innovative approach to simplifying scheduling for businesses and individuals alike has made Calendly an essential tool for millions.
Wemimo Abbey, the youngest Nigerian on the list at 32, has made waves in the fintech space as the co-founder of Esusu.
The company, which focuses on financial inclusion, helps renters build credit by reporting their rent payments to credit bureaus.
Esusu has reached over 20,000 properties and benefits 1.8 million Americans, empowering individuals to improve their financial standing.
Forbes said: “Adebayo Ogunlesi, with a net worth of $1.7 billion, stands out as a pioneering force in global infrastructure investment.
“As chairman and co-founder of Global Infrastructure Partners (GIP), Ogunlesi led the private equity firm through a transformative acquisition by BlackRock in 2024 for $12.5 billion.
“Tope Awotona, the founder and CEO of Calendly, has redefined efficiency in scheduling and holds a net worth of $1.4 billion.
“Wemimo Abbey, at just 32, is the youngest Nigerian on the list and co-founder of Esusu, an African fintech company addressing financial inclusion.
“Esusu helps renters build credit by reporting rent payments to credit bureaus, a service utilised by more than 20,000 properties and benefiting 1.8 million Americans. Congratulations to them. This shows that you do not need to do anything illegal to be recognised.
“It does not come as a surprise that only men from the Yoruba Ethnic group made it to the list.”
These remarkable Nigerians exemplify the power of innovation, leadership, and entrepreneurship.
Their inclusion in the prestigious ForbesBLK 50 serves as a reminder that success is achievable through hard work and legal, impactful ventures, irrespective of challenges.
Notably, all three individuals hail from the Yoruba ethnic group, showcasing the region’s growing influence in global business.
