Tony Elumelu, chairman of Heirs Holdings and founder of the Tony Elumelu Foundation, has elicited reactions after saying he became rich “by luck”.
“Sometimes wealth is not by hardwork, smartness or fitness, but luck,” Elumelu said in a recent interview with YouTuber Korty EO.
The celebrated banker and economist said his wealth was a matter of luck, despite years of hard work in a variety of jobs in the corporate world.
The billionaire investor said success is not easy and encouraged aspiring entrepreneurs to be determined when facing obstacles.
“I’ve achieved a lot over the years because I’ve stayed focused and built a good work ethic,” he said.
“I’m here by chance. Sometimes you don’t win because you’re the best in the class, or you’re the fittest or the most energetic. “Sometimes you need luck and I’m a product of luck,” he said.
His claim has drawn reactions with many questioning why the banker who has worked his way tirelessly up would credit his success to luck.
