Tony Elumelu’s philanthropy gesture roars

August 23, 2025 by Gbenga Bada

It is without doubts that at 62, Dr. Anthony Onyemachi Elumelu affectionately known as ‘TOE’ by friends and associates has reached a phase in life where his focus transcends personal ambition.

 The astute business mogul is deeply committed to fostering the growth and success of those around him. In over a decade, Elumelu and his wife, Dr Awele, have dedicated their lives to uplifting others, particularly young African entrepreneurs, while putting smiles on several faces.

Through mentorship and initiatives aimed at wealth and job creation, the couple have championed African sustainability.

Elumelu’s philanthropic gestures ring so loud to those that have benefitted from his large heart yet so silent because he rarely makes noise nor talks about it. Elumelu’s generosity and commitment to philanthropy are well-documented, making his life a fascinating narrative of success and resilience. Recently, the Chairman of United Bank for Africa (UBA), Heirs Group, Tony Elumelu Foundation, and Transcorp, donated a staggering sum of N25 billion to a worthy cause. Not because he is so wealthy to throw funds around but simply because he has consistently matched his words with his doings. In this case, the donation was in support of the Produce for Lagos Programme, an initiative of the Lagos Food Systems Infrastructure Company.

Read Also: Nigeria’s development depends more on values than policies – NESG

The programme is expected to enhance food security and promote economic development in the state. Reacting to the donation, the successful business mogul noted that his decision was fueled by the future.

He noted that in a few years’ time, the initiative will help face the challenge of joblessness of our young ones. The forward thinking Elumelu also told his business associates that he believes that joblessness is a great problem of the young people and for an individual, who is passionate about the young people and their future, he has decided to support the initiative to ensure they aren’t jobless in the nearest future with adequate arable lands available. He also urged all stakeholders to collaborate and bring the vision to life, describing it as the people’s initiative.