Tony Elumelu receives 2017 Dwight D. Eisenhower Global Entrepreneurship Award

Philanthropist and Chairman, UBA Tony Elumelu has been announced as the recipient of the 2017 Dwight D. Eisenhower Global Entrepreneurship Award.He was honored with the award by the Business Council for International Understanding (BCIU), a non-profit in the US dedicated to forging relationships and promoting dialogue between business and government communities across the world.

Peter Tichansky, President and CEO of BCIU, described Elumelu as a visionary entrepreneur. He said:

Mr. Elumelu’s bold approach and can-do mindset are exemplary characteristics of a visionary entrepreneur.

He embodies the idea that companies must take the lead in bringing business and society together. His advocacy is proving that businesses acting as businesses, not as charitable donors, are the most powerful force for addressing social challenges and economic development.

Elumelu, accepting the award, said:

I am honored to accept BCIU’s Dwight D. Eisenhower Global Entrepreneurship Award.

My fundamental belief is that entrepreneurs – women and men across Africa – will lead Africa’s development and transform our futures. The opportunity and challenge in Africa is scale – in our people, our resources and our horizons. And in my business and philanthropic journeys, I have always sought ways to help inspire a generation across our continent.