Kennedy Okonkwo is a Nigerian businessman, philanthropist, and real-estate entrepreneur. He is the founder and CEO of Nedcomoaks Limited, a company that has built over 3,000 affordable homes in Lagos. But his success story did not start on a silver platter. He was once homeless and lived under a bridge.
Okonkwo was born on October 12, 1977, in Lagos, Nigeria. He attended the University of Ibadan, where he obtained a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and the Lagos State University, where he obtained his Masters in Business Administration. He had a passion for real estate since he was young, but he faced many challenges and rejections in his quest to pursue his dream.
In 2007, he founded Nedcomoaks Limited with zero capital. He had to sleep under a bridge for six months while he was looking for clients and investors. He faced many disappointments and frustrations, but he never gave up. He eventually got his first contract to build a duplex in Lekki Phase 1. From then on, his business grew steadily and he became one of the leading real estate developers in Nigeria.
Okonkwo’s story is an inspiration to many Africans who are struggling with poverty and lack of opportunities. According to the World Bank, about 40% of the population in sub-Saharan Africa lives below the poverty line of $1.90 per day. However, there are also many examples of Africans who have risen from poverty to become millionaires through hard work, innovation, and perseverance.
Some of these include Aliko Dangote, the richest man in Africa and the founder of Dangote Group; Strive Masiyiwa, the founder of Econet Wireless and one of the most influential philanthropists in Africa; Mo Ibrahim, the founder of Celtel and the Mo Ibrahim Foundation; Isabel dos Santos, the richest woman in Africa and the daughter of Angola’s former president; and Tony Elumelu, the founder of Heirs Holdings and the Tony Elumelu Foundation.
These African millionaires have not only created wealth for themselves, but they have also contributed to the development of their countries and the continent. They have created jobs, improved infrastructure, supported education, health, and entrepreneurship, and advocated for good governance and human rights.
Okonkwo is one of them. He has not only built homes for thousands of Nigerians, but he has also launched several initiatives to empower young entrepreneurs, especially in the tech sector. He is the founder of the Kennedy Okonkwo Programme for Tech Entrepreneurs (KOPETECH), which provides mentorship, training, and funding to innovative start-ups. He is also the sponsor of the Eti Osa community Oba’s cup, a football tournament that promotes peace and unity among youths.
Okonkwo has received many awards and recognition for his achievements and impact. Some of these include Peace Legend Icon of the Year 2019, African Achievers Award – Excellence in Enterprise and Business Innovation 2019, Entrepreneur of the Year – Nigerian Entrepreneurs Award 2018, and African Business Personality of the Year 2017.
Okonkwo’s story is a testament that nothing is impossible with determination, resilience, and faith. He has overcome many odds and challenges to become one of the most successful real estate entrepreneurs in Nigeria and Africa. He has also used his wealth and influence to make a positive difference in the lives of others. He is a role model and a source of hope for many Africans who aspire to achieve their dreams.
We want to celebrate Kennedy today for being a go-getter, and enterprising. You are truly a Rising African and an able role model for the new African. Rising Africa is a dynamic platform that highlights the remarkable achievements of Africans worldwide and provides up-to-date information on scholarships and sponsorships available to African youth. Our vision is to inspire and empower the next generation of African leaders by showcasing the diverse accomplishments and talents of Africans across different fields, including technology, business, arts and culture, and social activism.
Through our Success Stories portal, we celebrate Rising Africans of all ages and sectors who have risen above challenges and made impactful innovations. Our Wonder Kids section features young achievers aged 1-12, while the Super Teens category highlights those aged 13-19, and Young Achievers profiles those aged 20-30. We also have dedicated portals for Women in Africa and persons living with disabilities.
In addition to celebrating African achievement, our Opportunities portal connects African youth to the latest sponsorship, scholarship, awards, and other life-changing opportunities. By providing access to these opportunities, we aim to empower African youth to pursue their dreams and make a positive impact in their communities.
At Rising Africa, we believe in the limitless potential of Africans to create a prosperous future for the continent. Join us in celebrating African excellence and building a brighter future for Africa.
References:
[1] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kennedy_Okonkwo
[2] https://www.wikiwand.com/en/Kennedy_Okonkwo
[3] https://www.yourstru.ly/people/ned-okonkwo/
[4] https://www.carmart.ng/public/blog/about-kennedy-okonkwo/
[5] https://www.worldbank.org/en/topic/poverty/overview
[6] https://www.forbes.com/africa-billionaires/list/
