The memoir details the massive financial toll he suffered during the global oil slump and Nigeria’s economic downturn. Otedola disclosed:

“All told, I lost more than US$480 million due to the drop in oil prices, US$258 million through the devaluation of the naira, US$320 million from accruing interest, and an additional US$160 million when the stock market crashed.”

Otedola built his wealth from humble beginnings, starting with Zenon Petroleum, which evolved from selling diesel in drums to a dominant player in Nigeria’s diesel market. He later acquired African Petroleum and transformed it into Forte Oil Plc — once one of the Nigerian Stock Exchange’s top performers.

However, his fortunes waned after a pivotal 2008 diesel shipment, ordered at $147 per barrel, arrived when crude prices had plunged to $40. The double blow of devalued naira — from N120 to N167 to the dollar — and falling diesel prices compounded the financial crisis, leaving him with substantial losses.

Otedola’s memoir is set to provide a candid and comprehensive look into the trials, tribulations, and triumphs that have defined one of Nigeria’s most influential business careers. It promises readers valuable lessons from a man who has navigated the heights of success and the depths of adversity.