Making It Big: Lessons from a Life in Business

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Making It Big: Lessons from a life in Business is a memoir and business guide authored by Nigerian billionaire entrepreneur and philanthropist Femi Otedola. It was officially released on August 18, 2025, both in hardcover and paperback formats.^[1] Otedola launched an official website for the memoir in July 2025, offering options for pre-orders, previews, and updates ahead of the release.^[2] The book was publicly unveiled in London, accompanied by a simultaneous global launch via major outlets and the author's website.^[1]

Combining memoir with practical business lessons, Making it Big chronicles Otedola's journey from modest beginnings to becoming a billionaire by the age of 41. The book unfolds his entrepreneurial ventures which includes disruptions in Nigeria's oil and gas,^[3] shipping, power, real estate, and financial sectors. As well as his ability to recover from major financial setbacks.^[4]

Beyond business, the memoir also focuses on Otedola's philanthropic commitments toward education, healthcare, disaster relief, and religious institutions, and reflects on legacy, African identity, and responsible leadership.

• Resilience and Reinvention: The book underscores Otedola's strategic pivots during crises,losing and regaining wealth and his continual reinvention.^[5]
• Philanthropic Vision: The memoir communicates Otedola's belief in giving back and building enduring legacies through philanthropy.^[5]

• Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, WTO Director-General, called it “a rare book by a successful African business leader documenting his journey and sharing lessons... especially for younger generations.^[6]
• Akinwumi A. Adesina, President of the African Development Bank, termed it “a must-read for all business leaders, policy makers and young people venturing into the world of entrepreneurship and business.^[7]
• Aliko Dangote,^[8] President/CEO of the Dangote Group, described it as “highly recommended read for anyone who aspires to be successful in a challenging environment.^[7]