Polytechnic Graduates That Made It Big in Nigeria

Polytechnic education in Nigeria has long been a vital source of skilled professionals who play significant roles in various industries. While universities often get more attention, polytechnic graduates have also made considerable strides and succeeded in diverse fields, from entrepreneurship to government to entertainment. Their stories serve as proof that with determination, practical skills, and an entrepreneurial mindset, anyone can achieve great success, regardless of their educational background. Here are some notable polytechnic graduates in Nigeria who have made it big.

1. Kola Aina (Founder, Ventures Platform)

Kola Aina is an example of how polytechnic education can be a springboard for entrepreneurship. A graduate of the Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH) in Lagos, where he studied Computer Science, Kola went on to become the founder of Ventures Platform, one of Nigeria’s leading startup accelerators. Ventures Platform has been instrumental in supporting and nurturing various successful startups in Nigeria, offering resources and guidance to young entrepreneurs.

Kola’s journey showcases how polytechnic graduates can leverage their technical expertise to create impactful businesses. His success is a testament to the power of entrepreneurship and the importance of innovation in today’s economy.

2. Lola Shoneyin (Author and Founder, BookBuzz Foundation)

Lola Shoneyin, a renowned Nigerian author and literary advocate, attended the Kwara State Polytechnic, where she studied Communication Arts. Despite initially working in the media and communications industry, Lola’s passion for literature led her to pursue writing full time. Her debut novel, The Secret Lives of Baba Segi’s Wives, was critically acclaimed and made her a prominent figure in the Nigerian literary scene.

Beyond her literary career, Lola is also a strong advocate for promoting Nigerian literature globally. She founded BookBuzz Foundation to encourage the reading culture and foster emerging writers in Nigeria. Her journey illustrates that a polytechnic background can provide the foundation for significant achievements in the arts and cultural sectors.

3. Ayodeji ‘Deji’ Adeleke (Business Mogul)

Ayodeji Adeleke, also known as “Deji,” is a Nigerian businessman who attended the Ogun State Polytechnic, where he earned a Diploma in Accounting. Deji Adeleke went on to build a successful business empire that spans various industries, including aviation, real estate, and hospitality. He is the founder of the renowned Adeleke University and has made significant contributions to the education sector in Nigeria.

Deji’s success shows how polytechnic education can provide the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in business. His story is a great example for polytechnic students who aspire to achieve entrepreneurial success.

4. Tony Elumelu (Entrepreneur and Philanthropist)

Tony Elumelu is an iconic figure in the Nigerian business world, and though he is best known for his leadership in banking and philanthropy, his journey also includes polytechnic education. Elumelu studied Economics at the Bendel State University, now the University of Benin, but he also attended the famous Zaria Polytechnic for his initial training in business administration.

Elumelu is the founder of the Tony Elumelu Foundation, which focuses on empowering young African entrepreneurs and creating jobs across Africa. His success underscores how polytechnic graduates can leverage their skills in entrepreneurship and become leaders in their industries, contributing to societal change on a global scale.

5. Desmond Elliot (Actor and Politician)

Desmond Elliot is a well-known Nigerian actor and politician who graduated from the Lagos State Polytechnic, where he studied Mass Communication. His career as an actor saw him star in numerous Nigerian films, and his popularity made him a household name in the entertainment industry. Later, Desmond transitioned into politics, becoming a member of the Lagos State House of Assembly.

Desmond’s journey from a polytechnic graduate to a prominent actor and politician is an inspiring example for those looking to break into the entertainment industry or public service. His success highlights the power of perseverance and how polytechnic education can serve as a foundation for diverse career paths.

6. Bola Shagaya (Businesswoman)

Bola Shagaya is one of Nigeria’s wealthiest women and a successful business mogul. A graduate of the Kwara State Polytechnic, she studied in the areas of Accounting and Finance. Bola Shagaya later went on to become a major player in various industries, including oil and gas, real estate, and banking. Her company, Bolmus Group International, has played a significant role in shaping the Nigerian economy.

Shagaya’s rise to success serves as an inspiration to young polytechnic graduates, showing that with the right mindset and a focus on business, achieving greatness is possible. Her entrepreneurial journey demonstrates the impact of education and resilience in the business world.

7. Kunle Afolayan (Film Director and Producer)

Kunle Afolayan, an award-winning Nigerian film director and producer, attended the Kwara State Polytechnic, where he studied Business Administration. After his polytechnic education, Kunle transitioned into the world of filmmaking and is now recognized as one of the most influential figures in the Nigerian film industry, often referred to as Nollywood.

Afolayan has produced several hit movies that have been screened internationally, including The Figurine and October 1. His success proves that a polytechnic education does not limit your potential to succeed in fields like film, art, and culture, especially if you are passionate about what you do.

8. Oluwaseun Onigbinde (Founder, BudgIT)

Oluwaseun Onigbinde is a polytechnic graduate who became one of Nigeria’s top advocates for transparency in government spending. He graduated from the Moshood Abiola Polytechnic, where he studied Computer Science, and later founded BudgIT, a civic technology organization focused on promoting financial transparency.

BudgIT has made significant strides in educating Nigerians on budgetary issues and empowering citizens to hold the government accountable. Oluwaseun’s story highlights the power of using technical skills for social impact, and it shows that polytechnic graduates can contribute to significant change in society.

ALSO READ: The Impact of Polytechnic Education on Nigeria’s Economy

9. Ifeanyi Ubah (Businessman and Politician)

Late Ifeanyi Ubah is a well-known Nigerian businessman and politician who attended the Federal Polytechnic Nekede in Imo State. He is the founder of Capital Oil and Gas, one of Nigeria’s largest oil companies. Beyond his business success, Ubah has also been involved in politics, serving as a senator in the Nigerian National Assembly.

Ubah’s journey from polytechnic graduate to a successful entrepreneur and politician illustrates the vast opportunities available to polytechnic graduates in Nigeria’s thriving business and political landscapes. His success serves as an example of how determination and hard work can lead to greatness.

10. Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie (Author and Activist)

Though Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie is primarily known for her university education, she briefly attended the Polytechnic of Ibadan before moving on to study in the United States. Chimamanda, one of Nigeria’s most famous authors, has won numerous awards for her works, including Half of a Yellow Sun and Americanah.

Her success story is a testament to the value of all levels of education, from polytechnic to university, and how individuals can build on their experiences to make meaningful contributions to literature and global discourse.

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11. Tope Alabi (Gospel Singer and Minister)

Tope Alabi is one of Nigeria’s most celebrated gospel musicians. She attended The Polytechnic, Ibadan, where she studied Mass Communication. Over the years, Tope Alabi has built a remarkable career in gospel music, known for her unique style and spiritually uplifting songs that resonate deeply with audiences across Nigeria and beyond.

Her story reflects how polytechnic education can serve as a stepping stone to creative and spiritual success. Today, Tope is not just a singer but a household name in Nigerian gospel music, proving that excellence is not limited by the type of institution one attends.

12. Portable (Street-Hop Musician)

Habeeb Okikiola, popularly known as Portable, is one of the most talked-about artists in Nigeria’s street music scene. He studied at Kwara State Polytechnic before rising to fame with his breakout hit “Zazoo Zehh.” Though his style is unconventional and sometimes controversial, Portable has carved out a space for himself in the entertainment industry and built a strong fan base.

His journey from polytechnic student to viral music sensation shows that talent and perseverance can bring success in unexpected ways. Portable’s rise highlights the broad reach of polytechnic graduates in Nigeria’s entertainment sector.

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13. Ayodele Fayose (Former Governor, Ekiti State)

Ayodele Fayose is a former Governor of Ekiti State who holds a Higher National Diploma (HND) from the Federal Polytechnic, Ilaro. His political journey began from grassroots activism, and he eventually rose to become one of the most prominent figures in Nigerian politics, serving two non-consecutive terms as governor.

Fayose’s educational background in a polytechnic didn’t limit his ambition or impact. Instead, it served as a foundation for his understanding of public administration and governance. His achievements in the political sphere show that polytechnic graduates are capable of leading at the highest levels of public service.

14. Chibuzor Chinyere (Founder, OPM Ministry)

Apostle Chibuzor Gift Chinyere, founder of Omega Power Ministries (OPM), is another example of a polytechnic graduate who rose to national prominence. He attended Federal Polytechnic Nekede in Imo State. Over time, he became known for his evangelical work and large-scale philanthropic efforts, including providing free education, housing, and healthcare for underprivileged Nigerians.

His story stands out for its blend of spiritual leadership and practical community development. Apostle Chinyere has shown how polytechnic graduates can lead movements that positively transform lives across the country.

15. DJ Spinall (Celebrity DJ and Music Executive)

DJ Spinall, whose real name is Sodamola Oluseye Desmond, is a graduate of Olabisi Onabanjo University, but he also completed professional training at Tenstrings Music Institute, which partners with polytechnics. Spinall gained fame as one of Nigeria’s top disc jockeys, performing internationally and working with top artists like Wizkid, Burna Boy, and Tiwa Savage.

His technical background and creative talent helped him master music production and stage performance, showing how a combination of formal education and hands-on skills can lead to massive success in entertainment.

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