Forbes’ inaugural list of the 50 Wealthiest Black Americans for 2024 features three Nigerians: Wemimo Abbey, Tope Awotona, and Adebayo Ogunlesi. Recognized for their innovative contributions in fintech, tech, and infrastructure, these industry leaders stand out for their impact beyond financial success.
Forbes unveiled its inaugural list of the 50 wealthiest Black Americans for 2024, recognizing three trailblazing Nigerian-born leaders for their remarkable contributions to business and entrepreneurship. These individuals—Wemimo Abbey, Tope Awotona, and Adebayo Ogunlesi—have earned their place on the prestigious list due to their influence and success across various sectors.
Wemimo Abbey is the co-founder and co-CEO of Esusu, a financial technology company that empowers renters to build credit by reporting their rent payments to credit bureaus. With over 1.8 million users across 20,000 properties, Esusu has raised $130 million in funding and achieved a valuation of $1 billion as of 2022.
Tope Awotona, the founder and CEO of Calendly, has transformed the scheduling industry with his innovative software solution. Calendly, valued at $3 billion in 2021, simplifies and automates the scheduling process for businesses and individuals worldwide, saving time and enhancing productivity.
Adebayo Ogunlesi, the chairman and co-founder of Global Infrastructure Partners (GIP), is a key figure in global infrastructure investment. With a background in law and business, his firm has made significant strides in the private equity sector. Ogunlesi’s net worth is estimated at $1.7 billion, reflecting his leadership in the field.
This new list from Forbes not only considers wealth but also celebrates the impact these leaders have had in shaping industries and driving innovation. The inclusion of Abbey, Awotona, and Ogunlesi highlights the growing influence of African entrepreneurs in the global business landscape.
