Chiemezie Valentine Ezeife: A Resilient Entrepreneur and Visionary Leader

Chiemezie Valentine Ezeife was born in Onitsha, the commercial city of Anambra State, to the family of Mr. Paul Ugochukwu Ezeife and Mrs. Ngozi Ayabolu Ezeife from Adazi Enu in Anaocha Local Government Area of the state.

He grew up under a principled mother, now a retired teacher, and a well-to-do dad. He had his Primary Education at All Saint Primary School, Onitsha, and his secondary education at Dennis Memorial Grammar School.

He further enrolled in a special science examination and was admitted to Saint Charles Special Science School, where he finally completed his Secondary education. Thereafter, he got admission into Anambra State University (ANSU), now Odimegwu Ojukwu University, where he studied Biochemistry and proceeded to his NYSC in 2012.

As someone whose entrepreneurial journey began early, he supported his father in their family business. His father was involved in fabric trading before transitioning to the footwear business in the popular Ochanja Market, Onitsha.

Ezeife was never a fan of 9 to 5 jobs. He never liked working for someone. Even while he was in his Industrial Training (IT), he started a business named Supplies of Baryte ( oil drilling stones) from Azara village in Lafia Nasarawa state. He was supplying oil drilling stones to oil servicing companies in Port Harcourt, an experience that provided him with a solid foundation in business operations and management. Although the business faced challenges due to the partnership fallout, which served as a significant learning experience for future business. But with the doggedness of a man determined to excel, he survived the career-damaging event and bounced back.

Despite the conflagration of Onitsha Main Market, which saw the father’s business perished to dust, Ezeife, after his graduation, returned to Onitsha to assist the dad in the family business, eventually taking over as his dad was already aging. This period was crucial in honing his leadership and business skills. Leveraging the proceeds from his early ventures, Ezeife began investing in real estate.

He started by purchasing and developing properties in Asaba, which marked the beginning of his real estate business. Recognizing the potential in Abuja, he expanded his business operations to the capital city. Ezeife, who diversified from fabrics and slippers businesses to real estate, Bureau de Change, and importation of goods, has carved a niche for himself in the business world. Chimezie also imports furniture and sanitary wares from Istanbul, Turkey, through his Zolgoza Global Resources, which is currently importing first-grade used Mercedes and man diesel trucks from Italy as well.

He also plans to venture into the hospitality business by developing top-tier hotel projects in the major cities of Nigeria. He aims to address housing needs in rural areas of Abuja by developing affordable housing projects that would be suitable for low, middle, and high-income earners. Ezeife’s diverse ventures reflect his deep passion for business and investments.

He is constantly seeking new opportunities to expand his portfolio. Witnessing his father’s resilience in overcoming business setbacks has inspired him to remain steadfast and adaptable in his endeavors.

He is driven by a strong desire to give back to society. His father’s experience with the Ochanja Market and main market fire incidents, where their shop was burnt to ashes, has instilled in him the importance of helping others rebuild and succeed in life. He is focused on creating sustainable and profitable ventures that not only benefit him but also contribute to the broader community. His vision includes not just business success, but also making a positive impact on people’s lives.

Ezeife is a dynamic entrepreneur whose journey from supporting his father’s business to building his diverse ventures showcases his adaptability, resilience, and commitment to growth. His enduring focus on giving back to the community and helping others rebuild and succeed is a testament to his character and vision for the future.