Daughter’s remark inspired my return to business — Otedola

Nigerian billionaire businessman, Femi Otedola, has revealed that a comment made by his daughter prompted him to return to active business after a period of living off investment income.

Otedola recounted that after making substantial wealth, he deposited his funds in Nigerian banks where he earned as much as 35 per cent interest annually, allowing him to step away from the day-to-day demands of running businesses.

According to him, the turning point came when his daughter was asked at school what her father did for a living.

“I made money and put it in Nigerian banks and I was making 35% in interest until one day my daughter was asked at school what her dad does for a living and she said I sleep. That’s when I started business again,” Otedola said.

The businessman’s remarks highlight the role of purpose and legacy in entrepreneurship, suggesting that financial success alone was not enough to keep him fulfilled.

His comments have since sparked conversations on social media about the importance of meaningful work, family influence and the drive that motivates successful entrepreneurs beyond wealth accumulation.

Otedola is widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s leading businessmen, with investments spanning energy, finance and other key sectors of the economy.