Africa Gives the Best Return on Investment – Elumelu

Nigerian billionaire and business mogul Tony Elumelu has once again made a bold case for Africa’s economic potential, emphasizing that no other region in the world can match the continent’s return on investment.

“There is nowhere else in the world that can match the return on investment that our continent offers,” Elumelu, 61, wrote on X (formerly Twitter) on Friday, urging global investors to recognize Africa’s vast opportunities.

Africa’s economic growth must benefit its people

Beyond profits, Elumelu stressed that Africa’s economic rise must be inclusive. While the continent’s natural resources and digital advancements continue to attract global interest, he believes Africans themselves should be the primary beneficiaries.

“Traditional trade models have too often excluded or marginalized Africa,” he said. “Now is the time for the world to partner with Africa for mutual and lasting benefit.”

As the founder of Heirs Holdings and a strong advocate of Africapitalism, a philosophy that promotes private sector-led development. Elumelu sees Africa’s young and fast-growing population as one of its biggest advantages.

“Africa has the youngest population in the world,” he noted. “By embracing Africapitalism, we emphasize the critical role of the private sector, particularly entrepreneurs, in driving economic and social development.”

Africa is a rising market with trillions in potential

Africa’s economy is on the rise, and the numbers prove it. The African Development Bank projects an average 4% annual GDP growth over the next decade, fueled by digital transformation, entrepreneurship, and intra-African trade. Internet penetration has reached 45%, further accelerating business and innovation.

One of the continent’s most significant economic shifts is the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA)—a deal bringing together 55 nations into a single $3.4 trillion market. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) estimates that AfCFTA could increase intra-African trade by 52% by 2025, adding $450 billion to Africa’s GDP by 2035.

The key to unlocking Africa’s full potential

Despite these promising figures, Elumelu pointed out that real transformation will only happen if the right investments are made in infrastructure, digital connectivity, and energy access.

With over 60% of Africa’s population under 25, the continent has an unmatched pool of talent. But many young people still face barriers like unemployment and limited access to funding. Women entrepreneurs, in particular, continue to struggle with financing and opportunities.

“To fully leverage technology, we must address the digital divide,” he stated. “Investments in broadband infrastructure, digital literacy, and cybersecurity are critical to ensuring technology drives equitable growth.”

Elumelu’s foundation has already supported over 21,000 African entrepreneurs, creating more than 1.5 million jobs across the continent.

With Africa’s business landscape rapidly evolving, Elumelu’s message is clear—the world cannot afford to overlook Africa anymore.