Chief Anthony Enukeme: The Igbo Entrepreneur Who Built Tonimas and Uplifted Communities

Chief Anthony Enukeme (Tonimas)

Some names are remembered not just for what they achieved in business, but for how deeply they impacted their people. Chief Dr. Anthony Obiagboso Enukeme, fondly called Tonimas, was one of those names. He was more than a businessman. He was a symbol of what hard work, faith, and dedication to community can produce. From a simple beginning as a pump attendant, he rose to become one of Nigeria’s most respected entrepreneurs and a proud Igbo son who gave back generously to the land that raised him.

From Umudioka to the Top

Chief Enukeme was born on January 21, 1944, in Umudioka, a town in Neni, Anaocha Local Government Area of Anambra State. He was the only son in his family, with one sister. Life was not easy growing up, but young Anthony was hardworking and always eager to learn. He joined the popular Igbo apprenticeship system and spent many years working as a petrol station attendant. He began this journey in Oturkpo, in Benue State, before moving to Aba.

Despite working full-time, he pursued his education with determination. After several years of service and self-development, he enrolled in evening and weekend classes. By the early 1980s, he had completed his secondary education and earned a degree in Public Administration. He later obtained a master’s degree in International Affairs and Diplomacy and was honored with a doctorate in Business Administration. Education, to him, was not something you stopped when you got older, it was something you chased for life.

The Birth and Growth of Tonimas

In 1981, Chief Enukeme took a bold step and founded Tonimas Nigeria Limited. The name “Tonimas” combined his own name, and soon, it became one of the most respected business names in Nigeria. What started as a small oil marketing company in Aba quickly grew into a group with multiple branches and a strong presence across Nigeria.

Tonimas Group expanded into different sectors including:

• Fuel and lubricants marketing
• Tank farm operations and petroleum logistics
• Aluminium roofing sheets and nails
• Plastic and bottled water production
• Haulage and vehicle leasing
• Real estate and machinery
• Hospitality and hotels

White Castle Hotel

Tonimas Oil

Tonimas Aluminum factory

Inside Tonimas Aluminum Factory

He built over 100 petrol stations nationwide, established factories and warehouses in key states, and invested in high-capacity tank farms and delivery infrastructure. Tonimas became a trusted brand for quality and reliability, earning awards and certifications from industry regulators and customers alike.

Chief Anthony Enukeme: A Man of Faith and Tradition

Chief Enukeme was a deeply religious man and remained a faithful Catholic until his passing. He was known for building and supporting churches, not only in his hometown of Neni, but in other parts of the country. One of his most notable works was the complete construction and donation of Saint James Catholic Church in Neni, which included a chapel, a rectory, and a grotto.

In recognition of his devotion and service to the church, he was knighted by the Vatican and became a respected member of the Knights of St. John International, where he rose to the rank of Grand President of the Owerri Grand Commandery. He was also Vice Chairman of the Catholic Diocesan Pastoral Council in Awka.

Culturally, he held several titles including Onowu (Traditional Prime Minister) of Neni, Enyi Abia, and Omekannaya. These titles reflected his role not just as a businessman, but as a respected leader and elder in the community.

Creating Jobs and Building People

One of the most outstanding things about Chief Anthony Enukeme was his commitment to job creation. Through Tonimas and his other companies, he employed thousands of Nigerians, many from the South East, providing them with a steady source of income and training. He supported staff development and built a working environment that was focused on discipline, fairness, and growth.

Beyond his companies, he gave back in many other ways:

• He offered scholarships to students at different levels of education.
• He sponsored road projects, health centers, and schools in rural communities.
• He donated vehicles and equipment to churches and local governments.
• He helped build town halls, skill acquisition centers, and boreholes for clean water.

Every December, he organized large charity programs in Neni, providing food, clothing, and financial support to the elderly, widows, and families in need. For him, wealth was meaningful only when it helped people.

A Leader in Business Circles

Because of his experience and contribution to the Nigerian economy, Chief Enukeme served as Chairman of the Lubricant Producers Association of Nigeria and was a key member of several business chambers and boards. He also became a member of the Board of Trustees of a major political party, though he remained more focused on business and community service than active politics.

He was also President of the Aba Chamber of Commerce and was regularly invited to speak at national and international business forums.

A Quiet Force with Strong Values

Despite his many achievements and influence, Chief Enukeme remained a man of humility and routine. Those close to him often described him as soft-spoken, disciplined, and focused. He was known to start his day early with prayer, avoid unnecessary publicity, and prefer a quiet lifestyle even though he had access to so much luxury.

He taught his children and staff the values of honesty, hard work, and respect. He believed strongly in mentorship and gave young people opportunities to grow under his guidance.

Final Years and Farewell

In June 2020, Chief Enukeme passed away after a short illness. His death came as a shock to many, as he was still actively involved in both business and community affairs. Tributes poured in from governors, bishops, business leaders, traditional rulers, and everyday Nigerians. He was described as a man of vision, courage, and deep compassion.

His funeral was attended by people from all walks of life. It was a celebration of a life well lived, and a reminder of the kind of impact one man can make when he lives with purpose.

Legacy That Lives On

Today, Tonimas Group continues to operate, employing thousands and expanding into new sectors. His family and trusted associates have carried on the work he began. His name remains respected, not just because of what he built, but because of the kind of man he was firm, God-fearing, people-centered, and proudly Igbo.

Chief Anthony Enukeme’s story is a shining example of what the Igbo spirit represents: hard work, education, community, and the ability to rise from nothing to something great. He showed that business can be a tool for both profit and service, and that success is best measured by the lives we touch.

Read about: Dr. Ernest Azudialu Obiejesi: The Igbo Visionary Powering Nigeria’s Oil & Engineering Empire