‘I BECAME RICH BY LUCK, HARD WORK’ – TONY ELUMELU

June 23, 2026 • Dons Eze • 1 min read

Tony Elumelu, Chairman of Heirs Holdings and founder of the Tony Elumelu Foundation, has sparked reactions after claiming that he became rich “by luck.”

Speaking in a recent interview with YouTuber Korty EO, Elumelu explained that sometimes wealth isn’t a result of hard work, smartness or fitness but luck.

The renowned banker and economist attributed his wealth to being lucky despite working tirelessly over the years in several positions in the corporate world.

The billionaire investor also noted that success does not come without challenges, urging aspiring entrepreneurs to remain determined despite obstacles.

He revealed that maintaining focus and a strong work ethic played a major role in his achievements over the years.

“I am here because of luck. At times, you don’t get successful because you are the best in class or because you are the fittest or most energetic. Sometimes, you need luck and I am a product of luck,” he said.

His claim has elicited reactions with many wondering why the banker who has worked his way up tirelessly would attribute his success to luck.

Dons Eze

DONS EZE, PhD, Political Philosopher and Journalist of over four decades standing, worked in several newspaper houses across the country, and rose to the positions of Editor and General Manager. A UNESCO Fellow in Journalism, Dr. Dons Eze, a prolific writer and author of many books, attended several courses on Journalism and Communication in both Nigeria and overseas, including a Postgraduate Course on Journalism at Warsaw, Poland; Strategic Communication and Practical Communication Approach at RIPA International, London, the United Kingdom, among others.