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Former First Lady of Nigeria, Patience Jonathan, has described the Group President of Azikel Group, Dr Azibapu Eruani, as a “small boy” she mentored and supported on his journey into becoming a prominent Nigerian businessman. Speaking at an event, Patience said she played a role in Eruani’s early development and helped introduce him to influential Nigerian business figures, including members of the Dangote and Dantata families. She recalled knowing Eruani from his younger years and expressed pride in the progress he has made in business.
Patience explained that her support went beyond personal encouragement, saying she helped expose Eruani to important business networks and opportunities that contributed to his growth. Eruani, a medical doctor by training, later moved into entrepreneurship and established the Azikel Group, which has interests spanning petroleum, power, dredging, aviation and other sectors. His business activities eventually led to the development of the Azikel Refinery in Bayelsa State, making him one of the prominent private-sector figures associated with the state’s industrial development.
Eruani’s rise in business has also attracted recognition over the years, including a Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic (CFR) national honour in 2022. The Azikel Group’s refinery project has been promoted as part of efforts to expand private participation in Nigeria’s refining industry and create economic opportunities in the Niger Delta. Patience Jonathan’s comments therefore highlight the personal relationship and mentorship she says existed between her and Eruani before his emergence as the head of a major business group.
