Dupe Olusola, the Managing Director/CEO of Transcorp Hotels Plc, has taken her commitment to social responsibility to new heights with the launch of the Next Generation Foundation (NGF). The philanthropic initiative aims to address one of Nigeria’s most pressing challenges—access to quality education for underserved and vulnerable children. Through the NGF, Olusola is making a bold move to transform the lives of children who are often left behind due to poverty and other socio-economic barriers.
The Vision Behind the Next Generation Foundation
Driven by a belief in the power of education to change lives, Olusola envisions a Nigeria where every child has the opportunity to access quality education, no matter their background. Speaking on her motivation for founding NGF, she emphasized the critical role education plays in breaking the cycle of poverty:
“Education changes lives, it opens doors to a future filled with opportunities, particularly for children who might otherwise be left behind. Nigeria faces one of the highest out-of-school populations globally. With the NGF, I hope we can make a meaningful difference in changing that.” This vision comes at a crucial time, as Nigeria continues to struggle with a staggering number of out-of-school children, particularly in underprivileged communities.
The 50 by 50 Project: A Life-Changing Initiative
At the heart of NGF’s mission is its flagship programme, the 50 by 50 Project. Beginning in the 2024/2025 academic session, this initiative will provide full scholarships to 50 children aged between six and 18 from low-income families. The multiyear programme goes beyond just covering tuition; it includes books, uniforms, nutrition programmes, health services, and mentorship.
Initially focused on three key areas—Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Lagos, and Ogun States—the project aims to not only empower its beneficiaries but also inspire communities by demonstrating the long-term impact of quality education. NGF will work in partnership with leading social impact organisations that specialize in education, ensuring a holistic and sustainable approach.
Dupe Olusola’s Proven Leadership
Olusola’s philanthropic commitment is built on her extensive leadership experience, both locally and internationally. With over 22 years of corporate experience across multiple sectors, Olusola has carved a reputation as a results-driven, dynamic leader. As CEO of Transcorp Hotels, she successfully steered the company through the turbulence of the COVID-19 pandemic, leading it back to profitability. Under her leadership, Transcorp Hilton Abuja has not only grown its share price by over 600% in the past year but also reinforced its status as the premier venue for international events.
Her strategic acumen is evidenced by the hotel’s 2022 revenue of N31.4 billion—a 47% increase from the previous year and the highest since the hotel’s inception. This growth, coupled with various industry accolades, including the CEO of the Year Award from the Seven Stars Luxury Hospitality and Lifestyle Awards in 2023, positions Olusola as one of Nigeria’s most impactful business leaders.
A Legacy of Achievements
Olusola’s career trajectory is nothing short of extraordinary. Before leading Transcorp Hotels, she held various high-profile roles at United Bank for Africa (UBA) where she was responsible for expanding the bank’s stake in key sectors across Africa. As the Managing Director and CEO of Teragro Commodities Limited, she pioneered a partnership with Coca-Cola, making Teragro the sole local source of materials for the brand’s Five Alive Pulpy Orange Juice in Nigeria.
Her diverse professional experience spans finance, agriculture, and hospitality, reflecting her ability to excel across different industries. She also brings an international perspective from her time at Bloomberg Financial Markets in the UK and Northern Trust Corporation in Chicago.
A Personal Commitment to Empowerment
Olusola’s drive to empower others extends beyond her corporate achievements. As a wife to renowned life coach Lanre Olusola and a mother of two, she manages to balance her demanding career with a rich family life. An active presence on social media, Olusola showcases a life of balance, ambition, and social responsibility, often sharing glimpses of her personal style and family moments.
With the launch of the Next Generation Foundation, Dupe Olusola is not only enhancing her legacy as a business leader but also as a changemaker committed to creating a better future for Nigeria’s children. Through initiatives like the 50 by 50 Project, she is ensuring that education remains the key to unlocking the potential of the next generation.
Family Time
Despite her demanding career, Dupe Olusola successfully balances her professional and personal life. Married to renowned life coach Lanre Olusola since 1999, she is a devoted mother to two daughters. Contrary to what some might expect from such a high-achieving executive, Olusola maintains an active social life, regularly spending quality time with her family. She is also quite active on social media, particularly Instagram, where she shares moments from her life—often showcasing her impeccable style and love for fashion, effortlessly rocking six-inch heels.
