Sijibomi Ogundele is arguably one of the youngest billionaires in Nigeria with great achievements in the real estate sector. His company, Sujimoto Construction, is one of the most successful real estate and construction companies in Nigeria. Mr. Sujimoto's story is nothing but inspiring to young Nigerians hoping to make a success of themselves in whatever field.
Born on April 8, 1981, Sijibomi Ogundele grew up in a humble setting in Agege, Lagos, where he learned the value of hard work and determination. Despite the challenges of his impoverished neighborhood, he vowed never to remain poor. Instead, he aimed to carve out a path to success, driven by a desire to redefine luxury living in Nigeria. His journey from the streets to becoming the Managing Director and CEO of Sujimoto Construction is a testament to his relentless spirit.
Sijibomi attended various schools, including Oko-Oba Primary School and Lagos State Model College, before pursuing a law degree at Anglia Ruskin University in England. His educational background, coupled with his entrepreneurial spirit, laid the foundation for his ventures in real estate. Today, he is fluent in several languages, including Hausa, Yoruba, French, Spanish, and even a bit of Arabic and Japanese, thanks to his extensive travels.
Biography
| Full Name | Sijibomi Ogundele |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | April 8, 1981 |
| Nationality | Nigerian |
| Education | Law Degree from Anglia Ruskin University, England |
| Company | Sujimoto Construction |
| Languages Spoken | Hausa, Yoruba, French, Spanish, Arabic, Japanese |
Table of Contents
- Sijibomi's Early Life and Education
- Journey into Business and Real Estate
- Founding Sujimoto Group
- Sujimoto's Notable Projects
- Philanthropic Efforts
- Awards and Recognition
Sijibomi's Early Life and Education
Sijibomi's upbringing in Agege, Lagos, was filled with challenges that shaped his character. Growing up in a neighborhood where few could afford luxuries, he learned to appreciate hard work and the value of education. His parents, a working father and a businesswoman mother, instilled in him a strong work ethic that he carried into his adult life.
He attended Oko-Oba Primary School, Ijebu-Ode Grammar School, and Lagos State Model College, where he laid the groundwork for his future academic pursuits. Later, he moved to England to obtain a law degree, which further broadened his horizons and equipped him with the skills necessary for his entrepreneurial journey.
Journey into Business and Real Estate
Sijibomi's passion for business ignited at a young age. Observing his mother operate a shop in the bustling Oke-Arin market, he learned the fundamentals of commerce. His early experiences included assisting his mother and other traders by pushing wheelbarrows, earning small wages while gaining valuable insights into the business world.
With his savings from these early endeavors, he ventured into a bike business, gradually expanding his fleet. This initial success led him to realize that real estate was the avenue he wanted to pursue, especially after his exposure to project management and financing during his time in South France.
Founding Sujimoto Group
In 2013, Sijibomi founded the Sujimoto Group, a company dedicated to redefining luxury living in Nigeria. Partnering with Yazeed Alrahji, a prominent real estate magnate from Saudi Arabia, he set out to create high-quality residential spaces that catered to the growing demand for luxury homes.
The name "Sujimoto" pays homage to Sijibomi's mentor, Sujimoto Koga, who significantly influenced his business philosophy and approach. Under Sijibomi's leadership, Sujimoto Group has expanded its footprint, establishing offices in major cities around the world, including Lagos, Abuja, Accra, Riyadh, Dubai, Madrid, and Paris.
Sujimoto's Notable Projects
The Sujimoto Group is renowned for its commitment to quality and luxury in real estate development. One of its first significant projects was Lincoln Avenue, a set of 16 townhouses in Accra, Ghana, showcasing the company's architectural vision and attention to detail.
Some of the most impressive projects undertaken by Sujimoto include MediciBySujimoto, LucreziaBySujimoto, and LeonardoBySujimoto, all located in Banana Island, Lagos. The firm has also developed The Giovanni and The HQ in Ikoyi, as well as QueenAminaBySujimoto in Abuja, and the iconic Sujimoto Tower in Dubai, a 44-story building that stands as a testament to Sijibomi's ambition.
Philanthropic Efforts
Sijibomi Ogundele is not only a successful businessman but also a dedicated philanthropist. His commitment to giving back is evident in his numerous initiatives. In 2015, he gifted a fully furnished luxury apartment and education to Olajumoke Orisaguna, a bread-seller turned model.
As part of his Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), Sujimoto has provided hampers to over 10,000 women, single mothers, and widows, significantly impacting the lives of underprivileged Nigerians. Ogundele continues to support students and teachers at his alma mater, New Oko-oba Primary School, ensuring that education remains accessible to those in need.
Awards and Recognition
Mr. Ogundele's contributions to the real estate sector have not gone unnoticed. He has received several prestigious awards, including an Honorary Doctorate Degree from Precious Cornerstone University and the Vanguard Young Entrepreneur of the Year for 2020.
His innovative approach to luxury construction has garnered extensive media coverage, with features in reputable outlets like CNN, Forbes, and CNBC Africa. Sijibomi's recognition as a leader in the real estate industry continues to inspire young entrepreneurs across Nigeria.
