By Oghenefejiro Emado
29, December 2025
Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori has described Chief Nuel Ojei as an exceptional entrepreneur, visionary leader, and committed Deltan whose contributions to business development, job creation, and philanthropy left an enduring legacy in the state and Nigeria at large.
The Governor expressed deep sorrow over Chief Ojei’s death at 74 in a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Festus Ahon.
According to Governor Oborevwori, Chief Ojei’s death is a huge loss not only to his family and Issele-Uku community but also to the entire Delta State and Nigeria as a whole.
He noted that the late industrialist’s life exemplified hard work, innovation, and service to humanity.
The Governor recalled that Chief Ojei built a formidable indigenous business empire spanning automotive, construction, petroleum, and other sectors, thereby contributing significantly to economic growth and employment generation.
Chief Ojei, the founder of Nuel Ojei Holdings (NOH) and Nuel Auto Distributors (NAD), began his business career at Rutam Motors in 1973 before establishing his own companies that later became major players in Nigeria’s automotive and allied industries.
Under his leadership, Nuel Auto Distributors emerged as the sole agent for Mazda vehicles in Nigeria and later partnered with Mercedes-Benz for authorized vehicle servicing.
Through Nuel Ojei Holdings, he led a large indigenous conglomerate with investments in automotive, banking, construction, and other sectors, providing employment opportunities for hundreds of Nigerians.
Beyond business, Governor Oborevwori noted that the late Ojei was a generous philanthropist whose Nuel Ojei Foundation touched many lives through educational, health, and social interventions.
In recognition of his contributions to business development, Delta State University awarded him an honorary Doctorate in Business Administration in 2003.
The Governor extended his heartfelt condolences to the Ojei family, the people of Issele-Uku, and the business community, praying that God grants them the fortitude to bear the irreparable loss. He also prayed that God would grant the soul of Chief Ojei eternal rest in His bosom.
