Barely two weeks after its release, Femi Otedola’s memoir Making It Big: Lessons from a Life in Business is already generating global buzz and strong sales across major markets.
The book, which officially launched on 18 August 2025, offers a rare look into the journey of one of Africa’s most influential business leaders and philanthropists.
The book chronicles Otedola’s remarkable journey from a young boy with entrepreneurial dreams to becoming a billionaire by 41, navigating crises, and reshaping multiple industries including oil and gas, shipping, power, real estate, and finance. It offers rare behind the scenes insight into the resilience, innovation, and strategic reinvention that defined his rise and the setbacks that tested him.
In her words, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Director General of the World Trade Organization says:
“There are very few books by successful African business leaders documenting their journey and sharing lessons learned for posterity, but in particular for a younger generation.”
With candor and clarity, Making It Big reflects not only on business success but also on Otedola’s deep commitment to philanthropy and legacy. He describes the importance of vision and ambition, the courage to dream big, and the ability to turn setbacks into stepping stones. The book explores how entrepreneurial strategy and discipline enabled him to scale across industries, how innovation and reinvention transformed moments of crisis into opportunities, and how philanthropy can create a legacy that endures beyond wealth.
At its heart, Making It Big is also a testament to pride in African identity and a call to inspire the next generation of African visionaries.
Beyond business, the memoir also delves into Otedola’s philanthropic commitments from education and healthcare to disaster relief, painting a picture of a man focused on legacy as much as wealth. Currently serving as Executive Chairman of Geregu Power PLC and Chairman of FirstHoldCo PLC, Otedola continues to play a pivotal role in shaping Africa’s business and financial landscape.
With fast sales and high-profile endorsements, the book appears set to cement Otedola’s influence beyond the boardroom — this time, on the bookshelf.
Making It Big: Lessons from a Life in Business is available here.
Bakare Oluwatobiloba
I write to educate, motivate and define history with literature. Just being me!
