Delta gov mourns billionaire, industrialist Nuel Ojei who died  at 74

Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, has mourned the passing of renowned industrialist and philanthropist, Chief Emmanuel ‘Nuel’ Ojei, describing his death as a profound loss to both the state and the nation.

The business mogul, fondly known as Nuel Ojei, passed away on Saturday night in his hometown, Issele-Uku, Aniocha North Local Government Area, at the age of 74.

In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Festus Ahon, Governor Oborevwori hailed the late entrepreneur as “a visionary leader and committed Deltan whose contributions to business development, job creation, and philanthropy left an enduring legacy in the state and Nigeria at large.”

The governor added that Chief Ojei’s passing is “a significant loss to the state and country as a whole,” extending condolences to the Ojei family, the people of Issele-Uku, and the wider business community.

Chief Ojei, founder of Nuel Ojei Holdings (NOH) and Nuel Auto Distributors (NAD), began his career at Rutam Motors in 1973 before establishing his own companies that became major players in Nigeria’s automotive and allied industries. Nuel Auto Distributors, founded in 1981, became the sole agent for Mazda vehicles in Nigeria and later partnered with Mercedes-Benz for authorised vehicle servicing.

Through Nuel Ojei Holdings, he built a diverse conglomerate with investments spanning automotive, banking, construction, oil and gas, solid minerals, energy, and telecommunications, providing employment for hundreds of Nigerians. In recognition of his achievements, Delta State University awarded him an honorary Doctorate in Business Administration in 2003.

Known for his generosity, the Nuel Ojei Foundation supported numerous educational, health, and social initiatives across Nigeria.

According to a source, Chief Ojei, the Ogene of Issele-Uku, reportedly complained of chest pain, slumped, and was taken to a hospital in Asaba around 5:30 pm, where he was confirmed dead.

In addition to Nuel Auto Distributors, Ojei owned Emo Group, a leading oil and gas conglomerate with subsidiaries including Emo Oil and Petrochemical Company Limited, Emo Exploration and Production Limited, NJ Exploration Limited, and Emo Ashapura Energy and Mining Limited.

Governor Oborevwori prayed that God would grant Chief Ojei eternal rest and comfort his family, friends, and the people of Delta State in their grief.