Prince Arthur Eze: A Nigerian Businessman and Philanthropist
Arthur Eze, a renowned Nigerian businessman and philanthropist, was born on November 27, 1948, in Ukpo village, located in the Dunukofia Local Government Area of Anambra State, Nigeria. His early life was marked by his royal heritage; his elder brother, Igwe Robert Eze, is the traditional ruler (King) of Ukpo village. Arthur Eze's education began with the completion of his primary education in 1970. He then attended St. Augustine Secondary School in Nkwerre, Imo State, graduating in 1974. Following his secondary education, Eze moved to the United States to further his studies. He enrolled at California State University, Long Beach, where he studied mechanical and chemical engineering, earning a bachelor's degree in 1978.
Arthur Eze is the CEO of Atlas Oranto Petroleum, the largest privately held Nigerian exploration and production group. Established with a vision to dominate the oil and gas sector in Africa, Atlas Oranto Petroleum has achieved remarkable success under Eze's leadership. The company holds 22 oil and gas licenses across 12 African countries, including Nigeria, Gambia, Equatorial Guinea, and Liberia. With its technical base in Lagos and corporate headquarters in Abuja, Atlas Oranto Petroleum has positioned itself as a leader in Africa’s energy sector. The company's extensive portfolio and strategic investments have made it a critical player in the continent's oil and gas industry.
Arthur Eze’s philanthropy is as prominent as his business. His charitable activities span various sectors, from education and healthcare to community development and disaster relief. Some notable contributions include:
Eze donated $12 million for the construction of St. Stephen’s Anglican Deanery and Youth Development Center in Otuoke, Bayelsa State, Nigeria, in 2013. He also funded the construction of two primary schools in Yirol and Rumbek communities in central South Sudan, contributing $800,000.
In his hometown of Ukpo, Eze donated 10 million naira to support elderly residents. He also built a medical research unit for Nnamdi Azikiwe University and modernized the local market near the Ukpo palace, creating road networks linking Dunukofia with neighboring towns.
Eze’s philanthropic efforts include significant donations to disaster relief. In 2013, he contributed $6.3 million to flood relief efforts in Nigeria. Additionally, he donated $800,000 at a fundraiser to support victims of Boko Haram insurgencies.
Arthur Eze's generosity extends to sports and cultural initiatives. He donated 25 million naira for the Nigerian contingent to the 2018 FIFA World Cup. In 2015, he gave 20 million naira to a church in Abagana for musical instruments and renovations.
Arthur Eze's contributions have been recognized both nationally and internationally. His accolades include:
Officer of the Federal Republic (OFR) In 2011, former President Goodluck Jonathan honored Eze with this distinguished award for his economic contributions and humanitarian efforts.
Outstanding Citizen of the World The Enugu City Centre Rotary District 9142 bestowed this title upon him in 2015.
Zik Leadership Awards Eze received the Zik Leadership Award in the business category in 2018.
Africa Value Award This award, presented by the Value Reorientation and Developmental Initiative Africa (VARDIAFRICA) in 2018, recognized his impact on African development.
Beyond business and philanthropy, Arthur Eze is also known for his political engagement. He has been a significant figure in Nigerian politics, providing financial support to various political causes and candidates. His influence extends across political lines, reflecting his commitment to the country's development and stability.
In recent years, Arthur Eze's influence has continued to grow. On July 12, 2023, he was appointed Chancellor of Azman University in Kano by its founder, Alhaji Dr. Abdulmunaf Yunusa Sarina. Eze also donated 200 million naira to the university during the inauguration of its maiden Board of Trustees and Governing Council on July 16, 2023. Additionally, the Governor of Ebonyi State, Dr. Umahi, named a major road after him and appointed him as the Chancellor of Ebonyi State University.
Prince Arthur Eze's life and career encapsulate the story of a man who has leveraged his business success to make significant contributions to society. His role as the CEO of Atlas Oranto Petroleum underlines his impact on the African oil and gas industry, while his extensive philanthropic efforts highlight his dedication to improving the lives of people across Nigeria and beyond. As a businessman, philanthropist, and political figure, Prince Arthur Eze continues to leave a mark on the continent. Prince Arthur Eze Ozoigbondu of the Igbo race. Written by Daniel Okonkwo for Profile International Human Rights Advocate.
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