Dr. Ernest Azudialu-Obiejesi: The Igbo Powerhouse Behind Nestoil Group

Dr. Ernest Nnaemeka Azudialu-Obiejesi, born on April 17, 1960, in Okija, Anambra State, stands out as one of Nigeria’s most accomplished industrialists. From humble beginnings in the southeast, he has built a billion-dollar empire in the oil and gas sector with Nestoil Group — a fully indigenous company making waves in engineering, procurement, construction, and commissioning.

His early life was shaped by a strong commitment to education and excellence. After primary school in Onitsha, he attended Dennis Memorial Grammar School and later Government College, Owerri. He went on to study accounting at the University of Benin, followed by an MBA, and later took executive courses at Harvard Business School. He’s also been honored with doctorate degrees in Business Administration and in Science and Engineering by reputable Nigerian institutions.

Dr. Ernest began his entrepreneurial journey in 1978 with his family’s trading business before founding Obijackson West Africa Limited in 1983, a firm involved in importing goods across West Africa. His big leap into the oil and gas sector came in 1991 when he launched Nestoil Limited. At a time when the industry was heavily dominated by multinational companies, Ernest saw an opportunity to build a Nigerian company that could match international standards. Nestoil quickly grew, offering pipeline construction, dredging, maintenance, and shoreline protection services to major players in the energy sector.

Over the years, he expanded the group with the establishment of Neconde Energy Limited, which focuses on upstream oil exploration and production. Neconde made headlines after acquiring a significant stake in OML 42, previously operated by Shell, in a move that was seen as a bold statement for Nigerian-owned oil ventures.

Despite the complexity of the energy business, Dr. Ernest has not limited himself to oil and gas. He has diversified into power generation, marine logistics, real estate, and healthcare. He built the Obijackson Women and Children’s Hospital in Okija, a world-class medical facility designed to provide quality care in the southeast. His philanthropic efforts are coordinated through the Obijackson Foundation, which supports education, rural development, youth training, and the preservation of Igbo culture. His annual “Face of Okija Cultural Festival” is one of the most vibrant events celebrating Igbo tradition and community pride.

A man of style and substance, Ernest is known for his passion for aviation and fine living, but even more for his commitment to excellence and national development. He has received numerous accolades over the years, including the All Africa Business Leaders Award (AABLA), the THISDAY Global Champion Award, and recognition by the Nigerian Society of Engineers. He also sits on the board of Julius Berger Nigeria PLC, among others.

Dr. Ernest Azudialu Obiejesi’s story is one of vision, courage, and service. His life proves that with bold thinking, deep roots, and an eye on the future, a Nigerian — and an Igbo son — can build a company that competes globally while remaining deeply connected to his people.