Emmanuel Ojei, prominent businessman, industrialist, and philanthropist, widely known as Nuel Ojei, has passed away in his hometown of Isele-Uku in Delta state.
Reports indicated that the respected entrepreneur, aged 74, suddenly complained of chest pains before being rushed to a hospital in Asaba where he was confirmed dead around 5:30 p.m. on Sunday.
A statement issued on behalf of the family by Chuks Nicholas Ojei, his son, described the development as a devastating personal tragedy and a deeply painful loss.
According to the statement, the family is struggling to come to terms with the shock.
“Words cannot fully capture the depth of our pain at this moment, as we struggle to come to terms with the sudden loss of a man who was not only our father but our strength, teacher, and moral compass,” the statement reads.
The respected billionaire businessman is survived by his children, relatives, friends, partners, and admirers spread across Nigeria and beyond.
The family appealed for prayers and support during the mourning period and assured that details of the burial arrangements would be communicated in due course.
Meanwhile, Sheriff Oborevwori, Delta State governor, has expressed profound grief over the death of the influential business figure, describing his demise as a huge loss to Delta State and Nigeria as a whole.
In a condolence message issued by Festus Ahon, chief press secretary, the governor said the late Ojei was a remarkable entrepreneur, visionary leader, and patriotic Deltan whose impact on commerce, employment generation, and humanitarian service will remain unforgettable.
He lamented that the death of the respected industrialist was a painful blow not only to his family and the Issele-Uku community but to the entire state and the country, noting that his life reflected dedication, resilience, and commitment to nation-building.
Oborevwori recalled that the deceased built a strong indigenous business conglomerate that played a major role in Nigeria’s automotive, petroleum, construction, and allied industries, creating jobs and supporting economic growth.
He noted that Ojei, founder of Nuel Ojei Holdings (NOH) and Nuel Auto Distributors (NAD), began his professional journey at Rutam Motors in 1973 before establishing successful companies that later became notable brands in the country.
The governor explained that Nuel Auto Distributors, founded in 1981, became the sole distributor of Mazda vehicles in Nigeria and later partnered with Mercedes-Benz to provide authorised automobile servicing.
Through Nuel Ojei Holdings, he led one of Nigeria’s strongest indigenous conglomerates with interests in banking, automotive, construction, and other sectors, while offering employment opportunities to hundreds of Nigerians.
He further noted that in recognition of his outstanding achievements in business, Delta State University awarded him an honorary Doctorate in Business Administration in 2003.
Beyond corporate achievements, the governor said the late business icon was a committed humanitarian whose Nuel Ojei Foundation touched many lives through educational, health, and welfare programmes.
He extended heartfelt condolences to the Ojei family, the people of Issele-Uku, and the Nigerian business community, praying for strength and comfort for everyone affected by the loss.
He also prayed that God grants the soul of Ojei eternal rest.