15 privately held companies of Nigerian tycoon Emeka Offor

On Apr 30, 2025

Key Points

Emeka Offor’s Chrome Group powers Nigeria’s economy through oil, energy, logistics, media, and manufacturing, employing over 800 people across four countries.
Kaztec Engineering’s $1 billion Snake Island Yard highlights Offor’s push for local oil infrastructure, with government support pledged to revive stalled operations.
Offor’s 45% stake in Enugu Electricity Distribution Company positions him as a critical force in Nigeria’s privatized power sector, despite infrastructure challenges.

In Nigeria, wealth isn’t just a measure of success—it’s often a tool for rewriting the rules of business, community, and opportunity. Across the country’s key industries, a handful of private companies are shaping the next chapter of its economy. One of the major players driving this quiet revolution is Emeka Offor, a businessman whose influence stretches far beyond boardrooms and balance sheets.

Offor, best known as the CEO of the Chrome Group and founder of the Sir Emeka Offor Foundation (SEOF), has built an empire rooted in oil and gas, but extending deep into power, logistics, media, and manufacturing. His career is a portrait of a businessman who understands that building a company is about more than chasing profit—it’s about creating lasting impact.

Born on February 10, 1959, in Irefi Oraifite, Anambra State, Offor’s early years were steeped in values that would shape his life’s work: discipline, resilience, and a belief in the power of service. He attended Eziukwu Primary School in Aba, St. Michael’s Primary School in Enugu, Merchant of Light School, and Abbot Boys High School in Ihiala, where he honed the foundation for a future that would take him into some of Nigeria’s toughest and most vital industries.

In 1994, he took a defining step by launching Chrome Oil Services, which would later grow into the Chrome Group—a sprawling, multi-sector powerhouse employing more than 800 people across Nigeria, Switzerland, the United States, and the United Kingdom. From the start, Offor made it clear he wasn’t interested in playing small: the Chrome Group planted itself in sectors crucial to national development, including oil and gas, energy, logistics, engineering, and communications.

Among his ventures, Kaztec Engineering stands out as a flagship company in Nigeria’s oil and gas ecosystem, providing high-level engineering, procurement, and construction (EPC) services. Its $1 billion Snake Island Fabrication Yard in Lagos—a landmark project for indigenous manufacturing—is about 70 percent complete, with efforts underway to bring it fully online after a long construction pause that began in 2015.

Offor’s reach doesn’t stop at oil rigs and fabrication yards. He played a critical role in efforts to revitalize Port Harcourt’s oil refinery, holds a significant 45 percent stake in the Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC), and commands a strong presence in logistics through Inland Containers Nigeria Ltd. In media, he owns popular radio stations 99.9 KISS FM and Blaze FM, giving him a direct channel into Nigeria’s cultural conversation.

Beyond business, Offor’s Sir Emeka Offor Foundation has quietly but steadily worked to improve education, healthcare, and economic opportunity, particularly for underserved communities. His philanthropic vision is tied closely to his business ethos: progress isn’t just measured by growth charts, but by lives changed.

From energy to logistics, broadcasting to exploration, Emeka Offor’s network of privately held businesses paints a clear picture of one of Nigeria’s most influential entrepreneurs. Billionaires.Africa takes a closer look at 15 companies that anchor his footprint in Nigeria’s evolving economy:

Chrome Group

Chrome Group, founded by Nigerian businessman Emeka Offor, is a leading West African conglomerate with diversified interests across key sectors, including oil and gas, energy, logistics, media, and manufacturing. The group’s flagship company, Chrome Oil Services Ltd, provides vital turnaround maintenance services for major Nigerian refineries, cementing its role in the country’s energy sector. Kaztec Engineering Limited, another key subsidiary, specializes in the fabrication of drilling and production platforms and is currently developing the $1 billion Snake Island Fabrication Yard in Lagos. In the power sector, Chrome Group holds a significant stake in Enugu Electricity Distribution Company, improving Nigeria’s electricity infrastructure. The group also operates in logistics through Inland Containers Nigeria Limited and media via Choffan Communication, which owns prominent radio stations. Chrome Group’s multifaceted portfolio reflects Offor’s strategic vision, contributing to Nigeria’s economic development across several critical industries.

Kaztec Engineering Limited

Kaztec Engineering Limited, founded in June 2005 as a subsidiary of Emeka Offor’s Chrome Group, is a 100 percent Nigerian-owned EPCI firm specializing in oil and gas infrastructure. Established to foster local capability in Nigeria’s petroleum sector, Kaztec rapidly delivered key projects, including the 24″ x 107km Calabar–Adanga pipeline and subsea pipeline work by 2010. Under Offor’s leadership and with John Niezner as MD, Kaztec also built a fleet of heavy-lift barges, enhancing its technical reputation. In 2013, it secured its first major contract with Shell for the Ogale–Bonny oil loop. Its flagship Snake Island Fabrication Yard, a $1 billion facility for offshore platforms, remains a national priority for revival. In 2023, government officials pledged support to restart the yard. Kaztec’s recent partnership with Salvic Petroleum to operate former Addax oil blocks highlights its pivotal role in Nigeria’s upstream sector, maintaining 100 percent Nigerian ownership and recognition as a leader in local content and EPC services.

Chrome Oil Services Ltd

Founded in 1994 by Emeka Offor as the flagship of the Chrome Group, Chrome Oil Services Ltd emerged at a critical time to strengthen indigenous participation in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector. Initially focusing on providing technical support and maintenance solutions, Chrome Oil Services gained national prominence by successfully executing major turnaround maintenance (TAM) projects for both the old and new Port Harcourt Refineries, tasks historically dominated by foreign firms. Building on this early success, the company expanded its footprint across Nigeria’s energy landscape, undertaking high-value engineering, procurement, and technical maintenance contracts for key industry players, including the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) and its subsidiaries. Through its strategic role in reviving vital infrastructure and championing local expertise, Chrome Oil Services helped set the stage for the broader growth of indigenous oil service companies in Nigeria. Today, it remains a trusted player in large-scale oil and gas maintenance operations, with a legacy tied closely to the evolution of Nigeria’s local content policy.

Chrome Air Services Limited

Founded in the early 2000s as the aviation arm of Emeka Offor’s Chrome Group, Chrome Air Services Limited once operated as a niche provider of private jet charter services for corporate and elite clients within Nigeria and across West Africa. During its brief but notable period of activity, the company leveraged the oil boom years to serve a growing demand for bespoke air travel, particularly among business executives and government officials. However, amid shifting market dynamics and internal group restructuring, Chrome Air Services gradually scaled down operations and is no longer actively flying, though it remains formally registered in Nigeria. While Offor, a prominent businessman and philanthropist, once maintained direct access to private aviation through Chrome Air, current insights indicate that he does not own a private jet outright but opts instead to lease aircraft on an as-needed basis. Chrome Air’s rise and retreat mirrors the volatility of Nigeria’s aviation and energy sectors, where shifting fortunes often reshape the ambitions of even the best-connected players.

Interstate Electrics Ltd

Interstate Electrics Limited was formed in 2013 as a Special Purpose Vehicle to acquire the Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC) during Nigeria’s power sector privatization. Led by Emeka Offor through Chrome Consortium Energy Nigeria Limited, it became the core investor in EEDC, responsible for electricity distribution across the South-East. The consortium, initially comprising Chrome Energy, Powerhouse International Limited, and Thailand’s Metropolitan Electricity Authority, secured a controlling stake after passing stringent assessments by the Bureau of Public Enterprises (BPE). Early years saw public scrutiny over alleged favoritism in the bidding process, but the BPE and National Council on Privatisation cleared the company. Despite regulatory challenges and customer dissatisfaction typical of Nigeria’s DisCos, Interstate Electrics has expanded its infrastructure across Abia, Anambra, Ebonyi, Enugu, and Imo States. Under Offor’s leadership, the company remains a key player in Nigeria’s post-privatization power sector, despite ongoing debate.

Enugu Electricity Distribution Company

Born out of Nigeria’s sweeping 2013 power sector privatization, the Enugu Electricity Distribution Company (EEDC) emerged as the designated utility for the southeast, tasked with supplying and retailing electricity across Anambra, Enugu, Imo, Abia, and Ebonyi states. The company operates under a core investor arrangement led by Interstate Electrics Limited—a consortium in which Nigerian businessman Emeka Offor holds a significant controlling stake, reportedly around 45 percent. As one of the 11 distribution companies unbundled from the defunct Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN), EEDC inherited aging infrastructure and a fragmented grid, challenges it continues to navigate through phased modernization efforts, metering rollouts, and regulatory interventions by the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC). Despite persistent concerns around service reliability and billing accuracy, EEDC remains a vital electricity lifeline for millions in the southeast, anchoring regional development and contributing to the long-term vision of privatized energy reform in Nigeria.

Global Scansystems Technology Limited

Founded as a subsidiary of Emeka Offor’s Chrome Group, Global Scansystems Technology Limited (GSTL) revolutionized customs inspection and cargo scanning in Nigeria. Established in the early 2000s, GSTL pioneered non-intrusive inspection services, ensuring efficient scanning and verification of goods at Nigeria’s ports, airports, land borders, and warehouses. In 2006, the company secured a major contract under the Nigerian government’s Destination Inspection Scheme, deploying advanced scanning technology to enhance border security, improve customs operations, and reduce smuggling. GSTL introduced fixed, mobile, and gantry scanners at key locations like Lagos, Port Harcourt, and Kano, raising inspection standards nationwide. While the Destination Inspection Scheme was transferred to Nigeria Customs Service in 2013, GSTL’s legacy continues to shape trade facilitation and customs modernization. Today, the company leverages its expertise to support logistics and compliance across West Africa, embodying Chrome Group’s commitment to infrastructural innovation in Nigeria.

Inland Containers Nigeria Limited

Founded in 1980 to catalyze the movement of cargo inland from Nigeria’s seaports, Inland Containers Nigeria Limited (ICNL) emerged as a pioneer in the nation’s freight and logistics sector. Backed by Emeka Offor’s Chrome Group, which holds a significant interest in the firm, ICNL operates two flagship Inland Container Depots (ICDs) strategically located in Kano and Kaduna, enabling more efficient cargo handling and customs clearance away from congested coastal ports. Over four decades, the company expanded its services from container terminal operations to a full suite of shipping, warehousing, bonded terminal management, and haulage solutions, playing a key role in regional trade and supply chain integration across Northern Nigeria. As part of its modernization drive, ICNL upgraded its Kano terminal into a full-fledged dry port under federal concession, boosting Nigeria’s capacity to facilitate exports and imports domestically. Today, Inland Containers Nigeria Limited stands as a critical link between Nigeria’s maritime gateways and its commercial hinterlands, reinforcing its legacy as a cornerstone of the country’s evolving logistics infrastructure.

Anchoff Strongholds Limited

Founded as a private investment vehicle of Nigerian businessman Emeka Offor, Anchoff Strongholds Limited serves as the principal conduit for his strategic holdings across key sectors of the economy. Through Anchoff, Offor maintains his ownership stake in Inland Containers Nigeria Limited (ICNL), one of Nigeria’s leading logistics and container terminal operators. This structure reflects Offor’s broader investment philosophy of consolidating infrastructure assets under closely held entities to drive operational efficiency and strategic influence. Anchored in Lagos, Anchoff Strongholds continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the commercial footprint of Offor’s business empire, particularly in maritime logistics and inland transportation.

Nimek Investment Limited

Founded as part of Emeka Offor’s broader investment strategy, Nimek Investment Limited serves as the private holding vehicle for his diverse business interests spanning energy, real estate, logistics, and finance. Based in Nigeria, the company was established to consolidate Offor’s stakes in key sectors critical to the country’s economic growth. Through Nimek, Offor has maintained controlling interests in ventures such as the Chrome Group, Kaztec Engineering, and various upstream oil and gas projects. While details about Nimek’s internal structure remain closely held, its role as the anchor for Offor’s business empire is undisputed, reflecting his longstanding influence in Nigeria’s corporate and oil industries.

Starcrest Nigeria

Founded as part of Emeka Offor’s Chrome Group, Starcrest Nigeria Energy Limited emerged in the early 2000s as a key indigenous player in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector. Its prominence grew with the acquisition of a stake in Oil Prospecting License (OPL) 291, an onshore block in the Niger Delta. Originally awarded in 2005, OPL 291 was operated in partnership with Addax Petroleum and Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC). Starcrest’s involvement positioned it as a leader in local oil exploration. In 2014, Starcrest transferred its rights in OPL 291 to Seplat Energy, strengthening Seplat’s upstream assets. The deal, approved by Nigerian regulators, highlighted Starcrest’s role in facilitating major industry transactions. Though no longer directly operating OPL 291, Starcrest continues to influence indigenous participation, asset development, and the growth of local content in Nigeria’s petroleum sector.

Choffan Communication

Choffan Communication is a media company owned by Nigerian businessman Emeka Offor, known for its ownership of two prominent radio stations: 99.9 KISS FM in Abuja and Blaze FM in Oraifite, Anambra State. Established as a key player in Nigeria’s broadcast media, 99.9 KISS FM is one of the most popular stations in Abuja, covering the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and extending its reach to neighboring states, including Nasarawa, Kaduna, and Niger. The station offers a mix of entertainment, news, and talk shows, capturing a broad audience across these regions. Blaze FM, located in Oraifite, serves as a commercial radio outlet, with its coverage spanning across much of the Southeastern region of Nigeria. Both stations are vital in shaping local media culture and have contributed significantly to the media landscape in their respective regions.

Kingsbury Trading Ltd

Kingsbury Trading Ltd is a key player in the import, export, and distribution of crude oil, gas, and petrochemical products. Established to meet the growing demands of the global energy market, the company has positioned itself as an important facilitator in the supply chain of essential energy resources. Kingsbury Trading has developed a reputation for its robust trading networks, spanning multiple countries and regions, and a diversified portfolio that includes crude oil, natural gas, and various petrochemical products. The company’s ability to navigate the complexities of international markets has enabled it to forge strong relationships with major suppliers and consumers. Kingsbury’s commitment to quality and efficiency has contributed to its rise as a trusted name in the energy sector, underlining its central role in the flow of key commodities across borders.

Global Scansystems Limited

Global Scansystems Limited (GSL), founded in 1997, is a leading force in international trade security and facilitation, with a strong presence in Nigeria and globally. The company delivers advanced technology solutions for border security, logistics, and trade facilitation. Trusted by governments, businesses, and global institutions, GSL deploys systems like Automated Passport Control (APC), cargo scanners, and integrated trade management platforms that ensure seamless, secure cross-border trade in line with global standards. It also develops and manages electronic systems for customs, immigration, and ports. GSL played a major role in modernizing Nigeria’s customs operations—streamlining processes, curbing smuggling, and boosting efficiency. As a pioneer in digital trade transformation, the company partners with international stakeholders to implement cutting-edge security technologies. GSL continues to shape trade security across emerging markets, enhancing transparency and resilience with a forward-looking, innovation-driven approach that cements its position as a global leader in the sector.

Sir Emeka Offor Foundation (SEOF)

The Sir Emeka Offor Foundation (SEOF), founded by Nigerian businessman and philanthropist Emeka Offor, empowers individuals and communities by fostering independence and self-sufficiency. Focused on education, healthcare, and community development, SEOF emphasizes sustainable impact. Since 2010, it has donated an estimated $18 million in books and computers to African schools, $10 million in 2015 to combat river blindness, and $1 million in 2013 to Rotary International’s PolioPlus program. Its education initiatives offer scholarships and access to quality learning for underprivileged children, while vocational centers equip youth with employable skills. In healthcare, SEOF builds clinics, supplies essential medicines, and partners to tackle malaria, HIV/AIDS, and maternal mortality. Its flagship empowerment program provides rural communities with small grants, micro-loans, and training, fostering entrepreneurship and reducing poverty. Guided by Emeka Offor’s vision, SEOF’s enduring, community-driven efforts continue to spark sustainable change and economic growth across Nigeria.

Crédito: Link de origem