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Faith, Discipline and Hard Work Brought Me This Far- Now I’m Building Platforms That Will Outlive Me- AMB. TOSIN MICHEAL OWONIFARI

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Faith, Discipline and Hard Work Brought Me This Far- Now I’m Building Platforms That Will Outlive Me- AMB. TOSIN MICHEAL OWONIFARI

From the humble streets of Ise-Ekiti to the boardrooms of global influence, Amb. Tosin Michael Owonifari has carved a path defined by resilience, purpose, and visionary leadership. With roots in education, healthcare, and digital empowerment, he has evolved into a trailblazing entrepreneur and global development advocate. As the founder of T21 Global Group and an AU Agenda 2063 Ambassador, his mission is crystal clear — to build enduring platforms that empower generations across Africa and the diaspora. In this exclusive interview, he opens up about his journey, values, challenges, and the future he envisions for Africa and the world.
Tell us something about your background and academic adventure.? 
I was born in Ise-Ekiti, a town I carry with pride everywhere I go. I started my education in Nigeria and later continued in the United Kingdom, where I obtained a BSc in Oil and Gas Management (Second Class Upper). Over time, I’ve earned professional qualifications in Education, Internal Quality Assurance, Immigration Law, and most recently, I completed a Strategic Leadership & Ethics Programme at Liverpool Hope University. Education has shaped my path and continues to fuel my growth.
How palatable was your upbringing and family rapport?
I come from a humble, values-driven background where faith, discipline, and hard work were the order of the day. My family may not have had wealth, but we had love, structure, and support. That upbringing built the foundation of who I am today.
Were you ever an employee at the beginning?
Yes, and I’m proud of every stage. I started with cleaning jobs, kitchen porter roles, and even factory work when I first arrived in the UK. Later, I moved into tech as a Software Tester, then worked for over a decade in the NHS across roles like Data Quality Analyst, RTT Validator, Hospital Admin, and System Training. These experiences prepared me to understand people, systems, and leadership from the ground up.
What led you into entrepreneurship?
I saw consistent challenges — youth unemployment, digital skill gaps, healthcare staffing issues, and lack of access to global opportunities. I knew I had to act. So, I started T21 Services in the UK, and from there it expanded to Nigeria, and now operates globally as T21 Global Group.
Give us an overview of your companies?
Under T21 Global, we operate three entities:
🔹 T21 Services (UK)
•RTT Validation & Hospital Admin Training (CPD-certified)
•Remote Job Training & Placement
•NHS Workforce Support
•Immigration Advisory & Recruitment Services
•Civil Service Bootcamps & Public Sector Training
•Digital Inclusion Projects (with UK councils)
•Leadership & Ethics Courses (in partnership with universities)
•Diaspora Engagement & Talent Matching
🔹 T21 Consultancy Services (Nigeria)
•ICT Training & Federal Programmes (e.g., 3MTT)
•Remote Job Hubs & Global Talent Export
•Software & Web Development
•Certification & Testing Centre
•Startup Incubation & Innovation Hub
•Government Contracts & Policy Advisory
•Student Recruitment (UK, Canada, Hungary, Poland)
•Event Management & Capacity Building
🔹 Tosin Owonifari Empowerment Foundation (TOEF)
•Leadership Development & Mentorship
•Youth & Women Empowerment
•Community Development Projects
•Grants & Social Welfare Support
•Civic Engagement & Humanitarian Services
These three arms work hand-in-hand to deliver education, empowerment, employment, and investment.
What’s your present workforce at T21 Global?
We currently engage over 150 professionals globally — this includes permanent staff, part-time consultants, freelance trainers, developers, assessors, and remote workers across the UK, Nigeria, Europe, North America, and parts of Africa.
Faith, Discipline and Hard Work Brought Me This Far- Now I’m Building Platforms That Will Outlive Me- AMB. TOSIN MICHEAL OWONIFARI
From Ekiti to the world, how did you break the barriers?
I embraced my origin, not as a limitation but as a source of pride. I combined the values from Ise-Ekiti with global vision. I stayed consistent, kept building relationships, invested in learning, and never gave up — even when doors were shut. Hard work, faith, and purpose broke the barriers.
How easy was it at the beginning?
It was extremely tough. There were moments I had nothing but hope. Rejections, delays, financial struggle — I faced them all. But I kept pushing. I believed that every great vision must pass through the fire before it becomes gold.
How did you overcome the challenges of new terrain that you never anticipated?
I stayed teachable. I listened, partnered wisely, studied new systems, and always stayed open to learning. When I didn’t understand a terrain, I asked for guidance and built relationships with people who did.
Tell us something about your first ever award and how you felt.? 
It was an award for my contribution to youth development and digital inclusion. I was surprised and deeply honoured. It reminded me that even when you think no one sees you, your work is making an impact.
How many awards so far? Or you have lost count?
I’ve been blessed with several meaningful awards:
•Fellowship – Chartered Institute of Information and Strategy Management (CIISM)
•Speak-Up Champion – EKSU Alumni & Student Union
•Outstanding Media Support Award – FIBAN (Ekiti)
•Humanitarian Service Award – 2023
•Ekiti Parapo UK Presidential Award – 2023
•Several others from churches, communities, diaspora groups, and institutions
Every award reminds me to serve better and remain focused.
What’s your source of motivation?
Legacy. I want to build platforms that will outlive me — in people, in policies, and in systems. I’m motivated by the transformation of lives, especially young people who were once overlooked.
Have you ever failed? And how did you get over it?
Yes. I’ve had projects collapse, contracts lost, visa denials, and cash flow struggles. But I don’t let failure stop me. I always step back, learn, regroup, and move forward. Failure is part of the process, not the end of it.
Who is your number one supporter?
My wife, Chief Mrs. Jumoke Owonifari. Her unwavering belief, support, and prayers have been priceless. She’s been with me through every stage, and I’m grateful beyond words.
T21 Global operates on a wider range. How do you cope?
We run with clear systems and trusted leadership across departments. I focus on vision and strategy while my teams handle execution. We use digital platforms, weekly reviews, and regular audits to stay on track across regions.
Your recent Global Award as an AU Agenda 2063 Ambassador — what new terrain is it opening for you?
It’s a gateway to policy, diplomacy, and global development work. As the official AU Agenda 2063 Liaison Officer (UK – Merseyside), I now oversee:
•Investment and diaspora engagement
•Leadership and legislative training
•Talent export and youth development
•Government and NGO collaboration
It’s more than a title — it’s a platform for shaping Africa’s future across continents.
You are gradually becoming a Global African figure. Are you gravitating towards politics in no distance time?
Yes, but not for power — for purpose. I believe public office, when entered with vision and competence, can change lives at scale. If the opportunity comes, I’ll serve with integrity and results, not promises.
Have you been conferred with any chieftaincy title?
Yes, I’ve been honoured with the title of Otunba in an Ekiti community. The official installation will happen soon. I see it as a cultural responsibility to serve, protect, and uplift my people, not just a title.
What new thing is T21 Global cooking?
We are launching:
•A Global Talent Export & Diaspora Registry
•Remote Job Hubs across Nigeria & UK
•A Leadership & Legislative Academy for African public servants
•Diaspora-to-Africa Investment Matchmaking Portal
•Our first Africa Investment & Innovation Summit in the UK
These will shape the future of jobs, policy, and innovation in Africa and beyond.
Who is your hero?
I draw inspiration from values like integrity, service, and resilience — values that have shaped my journey. In global leadership, I admire Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, Barack Obama, and Prof. PLO Lumumba — leaders who lead with courage, wisdom, and a passion for people.
Faith, Discipline and Hard Work Brought Me This Far- Now I’m Building Platforms That Will Outlive Me- AMB. TOSIN MICHEAL OWONIFARI

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Alpha Morgan to Host 19th Economic Review Webinar

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Alpha Morgan to Host 19th Economic Review Webinar

 

In an economy shaped by constant shifts, the edge often belongs to those with the right information.

 

 

On Wednesday, February 25, 2026, Alpha Morgan Bank will host the 19th edition of its Economic Review Webinar, a high-level thought leadership session designed to equip businesses, investors, and individuals with timely financial and economic insight.

 

 

The session, which will hold live on Zoom at 10:00am WAT and will feature economist Bismarck Rewane, who will examine the key signals influencing Nigeria’s economic direction in 2026, including policy trends, market movements, and global developments shaping the local landscape.

 

 

With a consistent track record of delivering clarity in uncertain times, the Alpha Morgan Economic Review continues to provide practical context for decision-making in a dynamic environment.

 

 

Registration for the 19th Alpha Morgan Economic Review is free and can be completed via https://bit.ly/registeramerseries19

It is a bi-monthly platform that is open to the public and is held virtually.

 

 

Visit www.alphamorganbank to know more.

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GTBank Launches Quick Airtime Loan at 2.95%

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GTCO increases GTBank’s Paid-Up Capital to ₦504 Billion

GTBank Launches Quick Airtime Loan at 2.95%

 

Guaranty Trust Bank Ltd (GTBank), the flagship banking franchise of GTCO Plc, Africa’s leading financial services group, today announced the launch of Quick Airtime Loan, an innovative digital solution that gives customers instant access to airtime when they run out of call credit and have limited funds in their bank accounts, ensuring customers can stay connected when it matters most.

 

In today’s always-on world, running out of airtime is more than a minor inconvenience. It can mean missed opportunities, disrupted plans, and lost connections, often at the very moment when funds are tight, and options are limited. Quick Airtime Loan was created to solve this problem, offering customers instant access to airtime on credit, directly from their bank. With Quick Airtime Loan, eligible GTBank customers can access from ₦100 and up to ₦10,000 by dialing *737*90#. Available across all major mobile networks in Nigeria, the service will soon expand to include data loans, further strengthening its proposition as a reliable on-demand platform.

For years, the airtime credit market has been dominated by Telcos, where charges for this service are at 15%. GTBank is now changing the narrative by offering a customer-centric, bank-led digital alternative priced at 2.95%. Built on transparency, convenience and affordability, Quick Airtime Loan has the potential to broaden access to airtime, deliver meaningful cost savings for millions of Nigerians, and redefine how financial services show up in everyday life, not just in banking moments.

Commenting on the product launch, Miriam Olusanya, Managing Director of Guaranty Trust Bank Ltd, said: “Quick Airtime Loan reflects GTBank’s continued focus on delivering digital solutions that are relevant, accessible, and built around real customer needs. The solution underscores the power of a connected financial ecosystem, combining GTBank’s digital reach and lending expertise with the capabilities of HabariPay to deliver a smooth, end-to-end experience. By leveraging unique strengths across the Group, we are able to accelerate innovation, strengthen execution, and deliver a more integrated customer experience across all our service channels.”

Importantly, Quick Airtime Loan highlights GTCO’s evolution as a fully diversified financial services group. Leveraging HabariPay’s Squad, the solution reinforces the Group’s ecosystem proposition by bringing together banking, payment technology, and digital channels to deliver intuitive, one-stop experiences for customers.

With this new product launch, Guaranty Trust Bank is extending its legacy of pioneering digital-first solutions that have redefined customer access to financial services across the industry, building on the proven strength of its widely adopted QuickCredit offering and the convenience of the Bank’s iconic *737# USSD Banking platform.
About Guaranty Trust Bank

Guaranty Trust Bank (GTBank) is the flagship banking franchise of GTCO Plc, a leading financial services group with a strong presence across Africa and the United Kingdom. The Bank is widely recognized for its leadership in digital banking, customer experience, and innovative financial solutions that deliver value to individuals, businesses, and communities.

About HabariPay

HabariPay is the payments fintech subsidiary of GTCO Plc, focused on enabling fast, secure, and accessible digital payments for individuals and businesses. By integrating payments and digital technology, HabariPay supports innovative services that make everyday financial interactions simpler and more seamless.
Enquiries:

GTCO
Group Corporate Communication
[email protected]
+234-1-2715227
www.gtcoplc.com

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BUA Group, AD Ports Group and MAIR Group Launch Strategic Plan for World-Class Sugar and Agro-Logistics Hub at Khalifa Port

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Photo Caption: BUA GROUP, AD PORTS GROUP AND MAIR GROUP SIGN MOU TO EXPLORE COLLABORATION IN SUGAR REFINING, AGRO-INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT, AND INTEGRATED GLOBAL LOGISTICS SOLUTIONS L-R: Kabiru Rabiu, Group Executive Director, BUA Group; Cpt. Mohammed J. Al Shamisi, MD/Group CEO, AD Ports Group; Saif Al Mazrouei, CEO (Ports Cluster) AD Ports Group; Abdul Samad Rabiu, Founder/Executive Chairman, BUA Group; and Steve Green, Group CFO, MAIR Group

BUA Group, AD Ports Group and MAIR Group Sign MoU to Explore Collaboration in Sugar Refining, Agro-Industrial Development, and Integrated Global Logistics Solutions

Abu Dhabi, UAE – Monday, 16th February 2026

 

BUA Group, AD Ports Group, and MAIR Group of Abu Dhabi today signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to explore collaboration in sugar refining, agro-industrial development, and integrated global logistics solutions. The partnership aims to create a world-class platform that strengthens regional food security, supports industrial diversification, and reinforces Abu Dhabi’s position as a hub for trade and manufacturing.

 

The proposed collaboration will leverage BUA Group’s industrial and logistics expertise, Khalifa Port’s world-class infrastructure, and AD Ports Group’s operational experience. The initiative aligns with the objectives of the UAE Food Security Strategy 2051, which seeks to position the UAE as a global leader in sustainable food production and resilient supply chains. It also aligns with Nigeria’s food production- and export-oriented agricultural transformation agenda, focused on scaling domestic capacity, strengthening value addition, improving post-harvest logistics, and unlocking new markets for Nigerian produce across the Middle East, Asia, and beyond.

 

Photo Caption: BUA GROUP, AD PORTS GROUP AND MAIR GROUP SIGN MOU TO EXPLORE COLLABORATION IN SUGAR REFINING, AGRO-INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT, AND INTEGRATED GLOBAL LOGISTICS SOLUTIONS

L-R:  Kabiru Rabiu, Group Executive Director, BUA Group;  Cpt. Mohammed J. Al Shamisi, MD/Group CEO, AD Ports Group; Saif Al Mazrouei, CEO (Ports Cluster) AD Ports Group; Abdul Samad Rabiu, Founder/Executive Chairman, BUA Group; and Steve Green, Group CFO, MAIR Group

Photo Caption: L-R: Kabiru Rabiu, Group Executive Director, BUA Group; Cpt. Mohammed J. Al Shamisi, MD/Group CEO, AD Ports Group; Saif Al Mazrouei, CEO (Ports Cluster) AD Ports Group; Abdul Samad Rabiu, Founder/Executive Chairman, BUA Group; and Steve Green, Group CFO, MAIR Group

 

Through structured aggregation, processing, storage, and maritime export channels, the partnership is designed to reduce supply chain inefficiencies, enhance traceability and quality standards, and also create a predictable trade corridor between West Africa and the Gulf.

 

BUA Group—recognised as one of Africa’s largest and most diversified conglomerates, with major investments across sugar refining, food production, flour milling, cement manufacturing, and infrastructure- brings extensive industrial expertise and large-scale operational capability to the venture. MAIR Group will provide strategic support in developing integrated logistics and agro-industrial solutions, creating a seamless platform for production, storage, and distribution.

 

Abdul Samad Rabiu, Founder and Chairman of BUA Group, said:

“This MoU marks an important milestone in BUA’s international expansion and reflects our long-term vision of building globally competitive industrial platforms. Together with AD Ports Group and MAIR Group, we aim to develop sustainable food production and logistics solutions that strengthen regional supply chains and support the UAE’s Food Security Strategy 2051.”

 

He further added that, “This partnership represents not just a commercial arrangement but a strategic food corridor anchored on shared economic ambition, resilient infrastructure, and disciplined execution, reinforcing long-term food security objectives for both nations.”

 

A representative of MAIR Group added:

“This collaboration underscores our commitment to advancing strategic industries in Abu Dhabi and building integrated solutions that reinforce the UAE’s position as a global hub for trade, food security, and industrial excellence.”

 

A spokesperson from AD Ports Group commented:

“Our partnership with BUA Group and MAIR Group highlights Khalifa Port’s role as a catalyst for high-impact industrial investments. This initiative will enhance regional food security, strengthen global trade connectivity, and support Abu Dhabi’s economic diversification goals.”

 

This MoU marks a historic collaboration that combines world-class infrastructure, industrial expertise, and strategic vision, setting the stage for a sustainable and resilient food and logistics ecosystem that will benefit the UAE, the region, and global markets alike.

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