Because time builds trust, and trust builds legacy
Only 2% of businesses make it past the 20-year mark; these made it to 50+ years. Join us to celebrate the legends who rewrote the odds.
Meet the legacy buildersThe Businessfront Over 50 is a tribute to Nigeria’s rarest business stories; companies that have weathered decades of change and still thrive.
the icons you know and trust
You’ve seen them in your cities. You’ve grown up with their products. Now, they’ve taken their place in the Businessfront over 50.
Founded in 1879
UAC of Nigeria Plc, often referred to simply as UACN, is one of Nigeria’s oldest diversified holding companies, with roots going back to 1879 as a trading company. The company started a merger of four companies trading on the River Niger as the Royal Niger Company.
Founded in 1894
FirstBank of Nigeria is the oldest and one of the most influential financial institutions in Nigeria and sub-Saharan Africa. The bank is also the oldest bank in West Africa.
Founded in 1897
John Holt Plc is one of Nigeria’s most enduring and iconic business institutions, with a legacy that stretches back to the 19th century. Established in 1897, the company began as a trading business founded by British entrepreneur John Holt, who started his operations in West Africa in the 1860s. Over the decades, the company evolved from a simple trading post into a multifaceted conglomerate playing a significant role in Nigeria’s commercial and industrial development.
British American Tobacco Nigeria Limited
Founded in 1912
British American Tobacco had been trading in Nigeria since 1912. British American Tobacco Nigeria Limited (often abbreviated BAT Nigeria or BATN) is one of Nigeria’s most prominent multinational tobacco companies, operating as a subsidiary of the global BAT Group.
Founded in 1917
Founded in 1917 as Colonial Bank, Union Bank of Nigeria Plc stands as one of the country’s most historic and enduring financial institutions. For over a century, the bank has played a vital role in shaping Nigeria’s banking landscape, offering financial services that span individual banking, SMEs, corporate enterprises, and the public sector.
Founded in 1918
Royal Exchange Plc started operations in Nigeria, represented by Barclays Bank DCO, before becoming a full branch of its then parent company, Royal Exchange Assurance, London. Its establishment in Nigeria was a result of an overseas expansion drive in the early 20th century of the British company.
Once you’re in, you’re part of a circle of excellence
The Businessfront over 50 community offers:
Legacy recognition
Be celebrated for your contribution to Nigeria’s business landscape.
Exclusive directory
Get listed in our exclusive catalogue where your business story is told.
Inspiration spotlight
Show tomorrow’s entrepreneurs that long-term success is possible in Nigeria.
QUESTIONS? WE’RE HERE TO HELP.
Need clarity on your listing or the initiative? Reach us anytime at [email protected].