Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, has mourned the passing of industrialist and philanthropist, Emmanuel Ojei, describing his death as a major loss to the state and the nation.
PUNCH Online earlier reported that the businessman, fondly known as Nuel Ojei, passed away on Saturday night in his hometown, Issele-Uku, in Aniocha North Local Government Area of Delta State, at the age of 74.
In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Festus Ahon, on Sunday, the governor said the late businessman was an outstanding entrepreneur whose impact extended far beyond Delta State.
He described Ojei as “an outstanding entrepreneur, visionary leader and committed Deltan whose contributions to business development, job creation and philanthropy left an enduring legacy in the state and Nigeria at large.”
The governor stated that the renowned industrialist’s death is a significant loss to the state and country as a whole.
The statement added, “Chief Ojei, who was the founder of Nuel Ojei Holdings and Nuel Auto Distributors, began his business career at Rutam Motors in 1973 before establishing his own companies that later became major players in Nigeria’s automotive and allied industries.
“Under his leadership, Nuel Auto Distributors, founded in 1981, emerged as the sole agent for Mazda vehicles in Nigeria and later partnered with Mercedes-Benz for authorised vehicle servicing.
“Through Nuel Ojei Holdings, he led a large indigenous conglomerate with investments in automotive, banking, construction and other sectors, providing employment opportunities for hundreds of Nigerians.
“In recognition of his contributions to business development, Delta State University awarded him an honorary Doctorate in Business Administration in 2003.
“The late Ojei was a generous philanthropist whose Nuel Ojei Foundation touched many lives through educational, health and social interventions.”
Oborevwori extended his condolences to the Ojei family, the people of Issele-Uku and the business community, praying that God would comfort them in their grief.
He added, “We pray God to grant the soul of Chief Ojei eternal rest in His bosom.”
