Group Chairman of the Tony Elumelu Foundation, Mr. Tony Elumelu, has been honoured with the 2025 Appeal of Conscience Award by the Appeal of Conscience Foundation, founded by Rabbi Arthur Schneier in the United States.
The award was received on his behalf by his wife, Dr. Awele Elumelu, at the ceremony, where the Archbishop of New York, Cardinal Timothy Dolan, was also a recipient.
In his acceptance speech delivered through Dr. Elumelu, the UBA Chairman described the recognition as deeply aligned with his values and commitment to humanity. He acknowledged the privilege of being associated with the Foundation’s legacy, stressing that his guiding philosophy, Africapitalism, places the private sector at the centre of Africa’s transformation.
Elumelu highlighted his personal journey, recalling that he was not born with wealth or privilege but achieved success through determination and luck. He said this inspired his drive to give back to society in ways that create lasting impact.
According to him, his businesses, which span four continents and employ over 40,000 people, are focused on inclusive growth. He explained that Heirs Holdings’ investments in power, energy, and financial services aim to light up communities, drive inclusion, and expand opportunities.
Through the Tony Elumelu Foundation, established in 2010, he noted that over $100 million has been invested in seed funding, mentorship, and training for more than 24,000 young African entrepreneurs across all 54 African countries.
He added that empowering young people is a way to tackle the despair that fuels instability, migration, and insecurity, while stressing the need for collaboration to amplify impact.
Elumelu dedicated the award to African entrepreneurs, innovators, and his colleagues at Heirs Holdings, describing it as a recognition of their resilience and shared vision for Africa’s future.
