In a post on Twitter on Friday, Elumelu recalled being
appointed branch manager at AllStates Trust Bank at age 27, a decision made by
Ebitimi Banigo, the then chairman of the bank.

“At 27, I was given the opportunity of a lifetime: branch
manager at AllStates Trust Bank, Nigeria, by HRM Ebitimi Banigo,” he said.

“Many doubted a young man could lead a bank branch. That
chance changed the entire course of my life. It gave me confidence, a platform,
and perspective.”

Elumelu said his experience taught him three key lessons:
that age is not a barrier, trust is the most powerful capital, and leadership
is about providing clarity and empowering others.

“If you can execute, are hungry to learn, and committed to
results — you can lead at any age. Leadership is about clarity of vision and
that discipline to execute,” he said.

“My journey didn’t start with money — it started with trust.
Trust was the seed that propelled everything else. Give young people trust, and
they will surprise you.

“Leadership is not about doing everything yourself. It is
about empowering, setting direction, and providing clarity. The sooner you
learn this, the faster you grow.”

This belief, he said, drives the Tony Elumelu Foundation’s
(TEF) commitment to supporting young entrepreneurs across Africa.

“It is the reason we invest in Africa’s youth at the Tony
Elumelu Foundation, because someone once invested in me,” he said.

The business mogul said his story proves that when “we trust
in our youth, they are ready to lead, grow, and transform our continent”.