How I made my first million - Obi Cubana

Businessman and philanthropist, Obi Cubana has shared the untold story behind his wealth.

The Anambra native who recently buried his late mother in a lavish ceremony over the weekend has come under the microscope with many Nigerians questioning the source of his wealth.

The funeral which dominated the news cycle was attended by friends, business partners, well-wishers, and celebrities like Davido, D'banj, Kana Nwankwo, Kanayo O. Kanyo, and Phyno.

Videos that were purportedly taken from the event grounds show his colleagues spraying money on the businessman.

This act has since been criticized by notable Nigerians including, Reno Omorki, a former aide to ex-President, Goodluck Jonathan.

As the criticisms grow by the day, Cubana has had cause to justify the source of his wealth.

Below is a transcript of an interview he granted BBC Pidgin on how he made his first million:

It was in Abuja that I was introduced to the real estate business, where I met a client who wanted to furnish a house. After furnishing the house for the client, I was gifted N500,000, as I also made over N600,000 in profits for the job.

According to him, “That was the first N1.1 million I made before I joined contract work in Abuja. I signed a contract with PPMC, made a little money, then bought my Mercedes V-boot. I invested the money I made into a garden beer parlour before I established Cubana Group.

Miracle can’t give you money because the pastor needs money more than you. Native doctor can’t give you money either. If you want money, you have to work hard.

If you are in your 20s, work now. I am 46 years (old), I have done my first half. I don’t know why someone who is just 20 years (old) will say he has not made it when he still has 50 years 60 years ahead. There is no soap to cut for anybody, there is no soap anywhere, work, pray, be good, make your own soap.”