A group of young Nigerian entrepreneurs have commended the contributions of the Tony Elumelu Foundation in encouraging and supporting budding entrepreneurs to grow into big enterprises with positive impact on the economy.
The group led by Chairman of Stanel Group, Mr Stanley Uzochukwu, made the commendation during a courtesy visit to Dr Tony Elumelu, the chairman of the Tony Elumelu Foundation.
According to Mr Uzochukwu, “the inspirational words of Dr Elumelu at a Maritime Security Retreat some time in 2012 at the Aso Villa, gave birth to his dream of growing his business.’’
He said the Elumelu foundation and the philanthropic works of Dr Tony Elumelu have given birth to a whole generation of budding entrepreneurs as well as provided supported for the so called “today’s established businesses’’.
Mr Uzochukwu said Dr Elumelu’s presence at the retreat which also had in attendance the then President Goodluck Jonathan, and Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Dr Ngozi Okonjo Iweala, gave much push to the growth of Stanel Group.
He said: “Elumelu’s words that triggered my vision were `believe in yourself…,’ `only entrepreneurship can create opportunities where none seemingly exists’ among others.
“Those words sunk into my head and motivated me to press further into investing in the oil and gas sector.”
Uzochukwu also disclosed that Stanel Group is one of the fastest growing companies in the oil and gas industry as a result of those inspirational words.
“Since inception in 2011, Stanel Group has expanded and diversified into rendering other basic services within the sector.
“Stanel Oil is not only rendering services but now also offering its products ranging from high standard and customised gas cylinders in different sizes affordable even to the poor, Stanel Engine Oil and Stanel tyres can now compete with any standard in the world,” he added.
In his remark, Dr Elumelu congratulated the young entrepreneur on his impressive achievements and speed of success so far within the space of six business years in the highly competitive industry.
He commended him for his burning passion to make a difference in his generation at an early age.
“Stanley, I like your humility. You are humble and I am proud to be your mentor as you have proudly identified with me as my young mentee.
“You started very young and you have gone this far because you are focused, passionate, disciplined and determined.
“My advice for you is that you should remain focused, futuristic, determined and above all keep your discipline and integrity,” Dr Elumelu said.
The event was attended by both staff of Stanel Group and those of Heirs Holding and the Tony Elumelu Foundation.
-NAN
