Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has hailed Coleman Technical Industries Limited, makers of Coleman Wires and Cables, as a shining example of corporate sustainability, visionary leadership, and family-driven business success.
Speaking at the company’s 50th Anniversary Dinner and Awards Night held in Ogun State, Obasanjo commended the firm’s ability to maintain growth and stability over five decades, attributing its resilience to sound management, effective succession planning, and a commitment to innovation.
He praised the company’s founder, Asiwaju Solomon Onafowokan, and his family for building a generational enterprise that continues to flourish under the leadership of his sons.
“I commend you and congratulate you. When you go to the cemetery, you don’t see it written that a man tried and died; you only see that men lived and died — and many died for one reason or another.
But you have done something different; you have ensured your business continues to thrive while you are still alive and not in charge. That is wisdom and foresight,” Obasanjo said.
The former president urged other Nigerian entrepreneurs, particularly owners of family-run enterprises, to emulate the Onafowokan family’s example by instituting proper succession frameworks that guarantee business continuity beyond generations.
A Legacy Built on Vision and Grace
In his remarks, Asiwaju Solomon Onafowokan, the company’s founder and chairman, reflected on Coleman’s five-decade journey, attributing its success to divine grace and deliberate succession planning.
“It’s not by my might but by the grace of Almighty God. I was deliberate about succession because when you have a mission, you must ensure those who take over share the same determination to succeed. I am proud that my sons are ready to take this company to greater heights,” he said.
Coleman’s Rise to Industrial Leadership
Managing Director, Mr. George Onafowokan, highlighted Coleman’s remarkable transformation from a small trading outfit founded in 1975 into a continental manufacturing powerhouse.
He noted that the company recently commissioned Africa’s largest fibre optic cable facility and the continent’s first fibre-reinforced plastic (FRP) production factory — milestones that position Coleman at the forefront of Africa’s industrial and technological advancement.
“Coleman today is on track to becoming a ₦15 trillion enterprise, with over 50 percent of revenue expected from exports. Our journey reflects a strong belief that Nigeria can build, innovate, and compete globally,” George said.
Celebrating Excellence and Service
The event featured awards recognising excellence and long-term dedication. Former President Obasanjo presented the Excellence Award to Mr. Femi Adeleye, a leading distributor of Coleman products. Ogun State Deputy Governor presented the Long Service Award to Mrs. Adefemi Grace, who has served the company for 38 years, while Mr. Ikini Enahoro was also honoured for 21 years of service.
Dignitaries at the gala included the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Jumoke Oduwole; Ogun State Deputy Governor; Pastor Tunde Bakare; the Akarigbo of Remo, Oba Babatunde Ajayi; and music legend King Sunny Ade, who thrilled guests with a live performance.
In a symbolic gesture of appreciation, the management of Coleman presented a Rolls-Royce gift to the company’s Chairman, Dr. Solomon Onafowokan, which was formally handed over by former President Obasanjo.
A Milestone of Nigerian Ingenuity
The golden jubilee celebration marked not only 50 years of corporate excellence but also the triumph of faith, resilience, and innovation that has positioned Coleman as a continental leader in cable and fibre technology.
Coleman’s story stands as a testament to the power of visionary leadership and the enduring potential of Nigerian enterprises to achieve global relevance through sustainability and generational continuity.
Leave a Reply