Chief Kelvin Jombo Honoured As Champion Newspapers’ Global Businessman Of The Year

Business mogul and philanthropist, Chief Kelvin Jombo Onumah, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Sublime Industries Limited, has been honoured with the 2025 Global Businessman of the Year Award at the Champion Newspapers Annual Awards.

The prestigious event held on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Eko Hotels & Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos, where distinguished personalities from across Nigeria’s business, political and social sectors gathered to celebrate excellence and outstanding contributions to national development.

Speaking after receiving the award, Chief Jombo expressed deep appreciation to Champion Newspapers, his family and members of his team, noting that the recognition reflects the collective efforts of everyone who has contributed to the growth of his business ventures.

“I’m grateful to Champion Newspapers, to my family who endured my endless calls, and to the team who actually does the work while I collect the applause,” he said.

He attributed the success of Sublime Industries Limited to two key principles  listening to stakeholders and building long-term trust in business relationships.

According to him, sustainable business growth is rooted in consistency, integrity and the ability to build lasting partnerships.

“We’ve grown because we kept two simple habits: listen harder than we pitch, and treat long-term trust as the real currency. Around the world, I’ve seen the same truth people will meet you halfway if you show up consistently and build things that last,” he added.

Chief Jombo dedicated the award to employees, partners and customers who have supported the company over the years, describing business as a collective effort rather than an individual achievement.

“This award isn’t about me; it’s about every employee who stayed late to fix a project, every supplier who gave us credit, and every customer who believed before the numbers looked good. Business isn’t a solo sport — it’s a relay, and tonight I’m just the one holding the baton for a moment,” he stated.

He also emphasized the importance of responsible growth and mentorship for young entrepreneurs, stressing that businesses must pursue both profit and purpose.

The Champion Annual Awards remains one of Nigeria’s prominent platforms for recognising individuals and organisations that have demonstrated excellence and impact in business, governance and public service.