When you are one of Africa’s top billionaires’ daughters, respect and recognition often come effortlessly due to your father’s wealth and connections.
Most of the time, individuals capitalize on their family names and business empires.
However, some choose to pursue success independently, carving their own path in various industries.
How does one achieve this without relying too much on their family influence?
In this story, we explore how Belinda Ajoke Disu worked diligently to attain influential positions, establishing herself as one of the most prominent women in business.
Born into privilege as the second daughter of esteemed business tycoon Dr. Mike Agbolade Adenuga, Bella Disu is determined to defy conventional norms.
Her goal is to shine in the business sector through her independent mindset, striving for success that is viewed distinctly from her father’s status.
Belinda aims to emphasize that her accomplishments result from hard work and determination. How does she navigate this journey and become one of the most influential businesswomen in Africa?
Belinda Ajoke Disu was born in 1986 to Emelia Marquis, an entrepreneur, and Michael Adenuga, founder of Globacom and the second richest man in Nigeria. Forbes estimates Mike’s wealth at US$ 6.9 billion as of February 2024.
After attending schools in Nigeria, she pursued higher education in Political Science and International Relations in the United States. Despite her global education, Bella returned to Nigeria after completing her studies.
How did she transform into a renowned businesswoman not only in Nigeria but throughout Africa? Furthermore, what sets her apart as the most influential daughter among her siblings?
In 2004, immediately following her university studies, she joined Globacom, one of the leading telecommunication companies in Nigeria and Ghana.
Starting as a sales executive, Bella utilized this dynamic environment to polish her business and entrepreneurship skills.
Embracing her role, she contributed to the company’s success, working closely under the guidance of her father.
This period provided her with valuable insights and experience in the telecommunications sector, significantly shaping her understanding of the industry and fostering professional growth.
After 15 years of dedicated service, her skills and professional insights led to her appointment as the Executive Vice Chairman of Globacom in 2019.
This achievement required years of hard work and determination. In her current role, she provides strategic leadership, maintaining Globacom’s status as a foremost multinational telecommunications company in Nigeria and Ghana.
Her tenure as Vice Chairman has seen her secure several deals that elevated Globacom’s recognition, including collaborations with Nokia Alcatel-Lucent and hosting the annual Africa CEO forum in partnership with Jeune Afrique.
In 2011, Bella expanded her professional journey by joining Cobblestone Properties and Estates Limited, a distinguished property development company in Nigeria.
Rising through the ranks, she became the CEO in 2015, showcasing her adaptability and strategic vision in the competitive realm of property development.
This chapter underscored her capacity to lead in diverse business environments and contribute to the company’s growth.
Belinda Disu extended her professional influence by joining the esteemed Julius Berger team, becoming a non-executive Director on the board of Julius Berger Nigeria Plc.
This construction company, focused on infrastructure development, allowed her to contribute significantly to the nation’s progress.
Her involvement with Julius Berger demonstrated her ability to navigate different sectors of industry, showcasing her versatility.
Beyond her roles at Julius Berger, Bella also joined Abumet PLC, a distinguished entity in the field of glass and aluminum manufacturing.
In 2021, she assumed the role of a board director at Abumet PLC, reflecting her leadership skills and ability to thrive in diverse boardrooms.
Aside from her professional accomplishments, Bella is making a difference in the lives of Nigeria’s less privileged through her foundation, the Bella Disu Foundation.
Inspired by her father’s Mike Adenuga foundation, she continues to positively impact society. As one of the most influential figures, is the world already watching as Bella ascends the ladder?
Could she be the next billionaire, considering her family’s legacy?
Only time will tell.
