For many, a milestone birthday is a time for personal indulgence. But for Oteh, it was an opportunity to give back. In commemoration of her 60th birthday, she sponsored Cohort 7 of the Africa Projects Development Centre (APDC), funding the training of 60 young entrepreneurs.
The celebrant, Arunma Oteh flanked in a group photograph with MD, APDC, Dr Chidi Ojukwu to her (right), The President/CEO Funab Group of Companies Limited, Alhaji Ibrahim Mohammed Ajia and Dr Onuoah Nnachi, a Business Mogul at the event
By Abdulrahman Aliagan, Abuja
As the sun set over the Africa Projects Development Centre (APDC), a vibrant atmosphere filled the air. The occasion was not just another gathering but a continuation of the grand celebration of a remarkable woman—Ms. Arunma Oteh, a Nigerian economist, finance expert, and global leader. Her 60th birthday was not marked by extravagant parties but by a profound commitment to philanthropy, youth empowerment, and nation-building.
Arunma Oteh’s journey is nothing short of inspiring. Hail from Abia State, Nigeria, she earned a first-class honors degree in Computer Science from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, before proceeding to Harvard Business School for her MBA. Her illustrious career spans over three decades, during which she has held some of the most prestigious positions in global finance.
As the Director General of the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) Nigeria, Oteh played a pivotal role in rebuilding Nigeria’s capital markets in the aftermath of the global financial crisis. Her tenure was marked by bold reforms and unwavering commitment to transparency, which restored investor confidence and strengthened regulatory frameworks.
Her expertise and leadership did not go unnoticed. She later became the Vice President and Treasurer of the World Bank, where she managed a staggering $200 billion multi-product asset portfolio and spearheaded efforts to raise over $50 billion annually from global capital markets. She also served as a Non-Executive Director at FSD Africa, contributing her vast knowledge to financial market development across the continent.
Ms. Arunma Oteh is presently sitting on the Board of FSD Africa, she is also Chairperson of a UK Asset Manager and Chairperson of the 124 year old Royal African Society.
The Global scholar sits on several other boards including King Charles’ youth charity, King’s Trust International
Ms. Arunma Oteh making her remarks to motivate and lift spirits of the trainees.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Oteh has been recognized globally for her contributions. She was awarded Nigeria’s Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON) in 2011 and was named among Forbes Africa’s 50 Most Influential Women. Her book, All Hands on Deck, is a testament to her belief in resilient capital markets as a driver of economic transformation.
For many, a milestone birthday is a time for personal indulgence. But for Oteh, it was an opportunity to give back. In commemoration of her 60th birthday, she sponsored Cohort 7 of the Africa Projects Development Centre (APDC), funding the training of 60 young entrepreneurs.
The Celebrant, Ms. Arunma Oteh, former Minister of Finance, Alhaji Ibrahim Mohammed Ajia and Dr Onuoah Nnachi at APDC, Gwawalada.
At the APDC, Oteh was warmly welcomed by Dr. Chidi Ojukwu, the Managing Director of the Centre, who took her on a tour of the facilities. The Centre is a beacon of hope, offering vocational training in agripreneurship, poultry farming, fish farming, fashion design, snail rearing, and makeup artistry, among others.
During the event, Oteh delivered an inspiring speech, charging the young trainees with the 4Cs of success—Character, Compassion, Competence, and Courage.
According to the global teacher, “I am honored to be speaking with you today at the Africa Projects Development Centre.
“As you embark on this journey to acquire vocational skills in Agriprenur, Fashionista, Poultry, snail rearing, Saloon service, and other areas, I want to remind you that success is not just about what you know or what you do, but also about who you are.
“Today, I want to charge you with the 4Cs that will propel you to greatness: Your character is the foundation upon which your success is built. It’s about being honest, trustworthy, and responsible. As you learn these vocational skills, remember that your character will set you apart from others.
“Be a person of integrity, who keeps their word and stands by their principles. Your character will be tested, but if you remain steadfast, you will earn the respect and trust of your customers, colleagues, and community.
“Compassion is about showing empathy and kindness to others. As you become successful in your chosen vocation, remember that your success is not just about you, but also about how you can impact the lives of others.
“Be compassionate towards your customers, colleagues, and community. Show understanding and empathy towards those who are struggling. Your compassion will not only make you a better person, but it will also set you apart as a leader in your industry.
“Competence is about having the skills and knowledge to excel in your chosen vocation. As you undergo this training, remember that competence is not just about what you know, but also about how you apply what you know.
“Be committed to continuous learning and improvement. Stay up-to-date with the latest trends and technologies in your industry. Your competence will give you the confidence to take on new challenges and pursue new opportunities.
“Courage is about taking risks and facing your fears head-on. As you start your vocational journey, remember that courage is not the absence of fear, but the willingness to act in spite of fear.
“Be courageous enough to take risks and try new things. Don’t be afraid to fail, because failure is an opportunity to learn and grow. Your courage will give you the resilience to overcome obstacles and achieve your goals.
“In conclusion, I want to leave you with a challenge. As you acquire these vocational skills, remember that your success is not just about what you do, but also about who you are.
“Be a person of character, compassion, competence, and courage. Let these 4Cs guide you as you pursue your dreams and aspirations.
“Remember, the world needs people like you, who are passionate, driven, and committed to making a difference.”
Her words resonated deeply with the trainees, many of whom are eager to transform their lives through the skills acquired at APDC.
The Africa Projects Development Centre (APDC) is more than a training hub; it is a catalyst for economic empowerment. Founded by Dr. Chidi Ojukwu, a seasoned development expert, the Centre focuses on equipping young Nigerians with practical skills that lead to immediate employment and entrepreneurship.
Its success stories speak volumes. Graduates of APDC have gone on to establish thriving businesses in agriculture, fashion, and beauty industries. The Centre’s hands-on training approach ensures that participants do not just learn theories but gain real-world experience in their chosen fields.
Cohort 7, sponsored by Oteh, has been aptly named the “Cohort of Perfection,” signifying excellence and the pursuit of mastery in their vocations. The testimonies of past graduates served as motivation for the new trainees, reinforcing the impact of APDC’s intervention.
The event was graced by notable dignitaries who lauded Oteh’s generosity and commitment to youth empowerment.
The President/CEO Funab Group of Companies Limited, Alhaji Ibrahim Mohammed Ajia making his remarks at the APDC-Ms. Arunma Oteh’s event.
Alhaji Ibrahim Mohammed Ajia, Chairman/CEO of Funab Group of Companies, emphasized the importance of recognizing and seizing opportunities. He urged the trainees to take full advantage of the resources available to them, reminding them that “opportunity knocks only once, but for you, it is standing right in front of you, smiling.
“You are opportune to be part of this program, and you are opportune to have Ms. Arunma Oteh not only sponsoring Cohort 7 but also taking the time to motivate you guys.
“Ms. Oteh’s presence here today is a testament to her commitment to empowering young people. Her willingness to be on your platform to motivate you is a rare opportunity that many people would envy.
“So, I want to charge you all today to take full advantage of this opportunity. Do not misuse it. Recognize that you are part of a select group of individuals who have been given a chance to change their lives.
“You have been given the training, and the mentorship. Now, it’s up to you to use these resources to create a better future for yourselves.
“Do not let this opportunity slip away. Grab it with both hands, and make the most of it. Remember that the only way to repay Ms. Oteh’s kindness is to succeed.
“So, go out there and create businesses, create jobs, and create wealth. Be the change that you want to see in your community.
“And always remember, opportunity knocks only once. But for you, opportunity is not just knocking; it’s standing right in front of you, smiling and saying, Take advantage of me”
Alhaji Ibrahim Mohammed Ajia and Dr Onuoah Nnachi in a discussion
Similarly, Dr. Onuoah Nnach, a business mogul and serial entrepreneur, shared insights on entrepreneurship, encouraging the trainees to identify problems, create solutions, and take risks.
“As a serial entrepreneur, I have learned that success is not just about identifying opportunities, but also about creating solutions to problems that exist in our society.
“Today, I want to share with you a simple yet powerful principle that has guided my entrepreneurial journey: identifying problems, creating voids, and filling the gaps.
“The first step to success is to identify the problems that exist in our society. What are the challenges that people face? What are the needs that are not being met?
“As you undergo this training, I want to encourage you to be observant. Look around you and identify the problems that exist in your community.
“Once you have identified the problems, the next step is to create voids. What do I mean by voids? Voids are the gaps that exist between the problem and the solution.
Creating voids means that you are acknowledging that a problem exists and that you are committed to finding a solution.
“Finally, filling the gaps means providing solutions to the problems that you have identified. This is where innovation and creativity come in.
“As entrepreneurs, we must be willing to take risks and try new things. We must be willing to experiment and learn from our failures. As you acquire these vocational skills, remember that your success is not just about what you do, but also about the problems you solve.
“Identify the problems that exist in your community, create voids, and fill the gaps. Be the solution to the problems that you see around you.
“Remember, entrepreneurship is not just about making money; it’s about making a difference
He pledged his support to APDC, reinforcing the need for continuous investment in youth-driven enterprises.
Chief Emmanuel Nwofa, in his heartfelt remarks, underscored the moral obligation of helping the less privileged. Drawing from the lives of late business magnates, he reminded everyone that “wealth is temporary, but impact is eternal.”
Oteh’s legacy is one of resilience, excellence, and generosity. Her commitment to fostering entrepreneurship among Nigerian youth is a testament to her belief in Nigeria’s boundless potential.
Participants (Cohort 7) at the event
To the young people of Cohort 7 and beyond, her message is clear: “Be bold. Be excellent. Be the change-makers of your generation.”
Participants (Cohort 7) at the event
Poultry section of APDC.
Fashionista section of the APDC.
As the event concluded, the trainees left not just with vocational skills but with renewed hope, inspiration, and a sense of responsibility—a true testament to Oteh’s impact, both in Nigeria and across the globe.
In a world where many chase personal success, Arunma Oteh has chosen to uplift others along the way. Her 60th birthday celebration was not just an event but a powerful statement of service, leadership, and the relentless pursuit of a better Africa.
Proposed site for 200-capacity Students Hostel named after Chief Arunma Oteh
As Nigeria continues to navigate its economic landscape, initiatives like APDC, supported by visionaries like Oteh, serve as blueprints for sustainable development.
Indeed, the best way to celebrate a life well-lived is to ensure that others can also build meaningful lives—and that is precisely what Oteh has done.
