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Nigerian investment banker Adebayo Ogunlesi, founder and chairman of Global Infrastructure Partners (GIP), is set to join the ranks of billionaires following the announcement of GIP’s acquisition by BlackRock for $12.5 billion. The deal, finalized on Friday, will see BlackRock acquire a 100% stake in GIP, significantly boosting Ogunlesi’s net worth as a result of his 17.5% ownership in the company.
Bloomberg Billionaires Index estimates Ogunlesi’s fortune to reach approximately $2.3 billion upon the finalization of the deal, propelling him into billionaire territory. This marks a significant milestone for the renowned financier, who has established himself as a leading figure in the global infrastructure investment landscape.
GIP, founded by Ogunlesi in 2006, has grown into a prominent player in the infrastructure sector, boasting a portfolio of assets exceeding $83 billion across five continents. The company’s success, and Ogunlesi’s pivotal role in shaping its trajectory, makes this acquisition a noteworthy development within the financial and infrastructure spheres.
The deal further underscores BlackRock’s growing appetite for alternative investments, including infrastructure, as seen in recent acquisitions like the 2023 purchase of West Street Capital Partners. The move also aligns with GIP’s own aspirations for global expansion and access to additional resources, setting the stage for a potentially transformative chapter for both entities.
While the full implications of the acquisition remain to be seen, Ogunlesi’s imminent entry into the billionaire club undoubtedly marks a significant achievement for the Nigerian-born financier and underscores the growing prominence of African figures in the global financial landscape.
