Obasanjo hails Coleman’s billions, family walks off with Rolls-Royce
Former Nigerian leader Olusegun Obasanjo highlighted Coleman Technical Industries Limited as an example of enduring business achievement during the wire and cable manufacturer’s golden anniversary celebration in Ogun State. He commended founder Solomon Onafowokan for establishing succession mechanisms that allowed the enterprise to flourish under his sons’ management while he remained alive. Obasanjo encouraged other entrepreneurs to develop similar transition strategies for their companies.
The founder attributed the firm’s half-century trajectory to spiritual blessings and deliberate planning for leadership continuity. Managing Director George Onafowokan noted that Coleman evolved from a modest trading operation launched in 1975 into a continental manufacturing force that recently opened Africa’s largest fiber optic cable plant and first fiber-reinforced plastic facility. He said the company targets becoming a 15 trillion naira organization with exports generating more than half of total revenue.
The anniversary dinner featured recognition ceremonies for longtime employees and distributors. Attendees witnessed presentations of service awards and a luxury vehicle gift to the chairman. Industry minister Jumoke Oduwole and musician King Sunny Ade joined other guests at the event.
