Joseph Eze Okafor Jr., widely recognized as Jowi Zaza, is a distinguished Nigerian businessman, socialite, and philanthropist. Renowned for his role as the CEO of Jezco Oil and Lubricants, a family-owned enterprise, Jowi Zaza has cemented his reputation in the oil and gas industry while becoming a cultural icon among Nigeria’s elite. Born on March 19, 1985, in Ekwulobia, Aguata Local Government Area of Anambra State, Jowi Zaza’s story is one of entrepreneurial excellence, luxury, and philanthropy.
Table of Contents
- 0.1 Early Life and Family Background
- 0.2 Education
- 0.3 Professional Career
- 0.4 Lifestyle and Net Worth
- 0.5 Philanthropy
- 0.6 Personal Life and Public Perception
- 0.7 Awards and Recognition
- 0.8 Controversies and Rumors
- 0.9 Association with Notable Igbo Figures
- 0.10 Legacy and Conclusion
- 0.11 Related posts:
- 1 Nuella Njubigbo
- 2 Destiny Etiko
- 3 Inibehe Effiong
Early Life and Family Background
Joseph Eze Okafor Jr. was born on March 19, 1985, into the illustrious Okafor family of Ekwulobia, Aguata Local Government Area, Anambra State, Nigeria. His father, Chief Sir Joseph Eze Okafor Sr., is a notable entrepreneur who founded Jezco Oil and Lubricants in 1980, establishing the family’s prominence in Nigeria’s business landscape.
- Mother: Lady Veronica Okafor, a devout Christian and homemaker, is deeply involved in charitable activities in Anambra State.
- Siblings: Jowi Zaza has three siblings, including his brother Emeka Okafor, who oversees some of the family’s business ventures.
Education
Jowi Zaza’s academic journey reflects his commitment to excellence:
- Primary Education: Sacred Heart Seminary School, Nsude, Enugu State.
- Secondary Education: Completed at Sacred Heart Seminary, excelling in mathematics and economics.
- University: He earned a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Madonna University, Okija, Anambra State.
- Postgraduate Studies:
- Master’s degree in International Business from Coventry University, London.
- Advanced business courses at the Kelce College of Business, Pittsburg State University, United States.
Professional Career
Jezco Oil and Lubricants:
After completing his studies, Jowi Zaza joined Jezco Oil, the family business, and later assumed the role of CEO. Under his leadership, the company diversified its portfolio, expanding into medical gases production, a crucial sector during the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Expansion: He introduced modern technologies to optimize operations, solidifying Jezco Oil’s dominance in Nigeria’s energy sector.
- Philanthropic Vision: Emphasizing corporate social responsibility, he has led initiatives supporting education, healthcare, and community development.
Jowi Zaza’s charisma and business acumen have earned him collaborations with other notable Igbo entrepreneurs like Obi Cubana (Cubana Group) and E-Money (Five Star Group). Together, they represent a generation of wealth creators reshaping Nigeria’s economy.
Lifestyle and Net Worth
Jowi Zaza’s lifestyle reflects his financial success and penchant for luxury:
- Net Worth: Estimated at $80 million (2024), derived from his leadership in Jezco Oil and investments in real estate.
- Properties:
- Mansion on Chevron Drive, Lekki, Lagos.
- Luxury home on Banana Island, Lagos.
- International mansion in the United Kingdom.
- Luxury Cars:
- Lamborghini Aventador ($315,000).
- Rolls Royce Cullinan ($775,000).
- Brabus G-Wagon ($600,000).
- Bentley Continental GT ($300,000).
Philanthropy
Jowi Zaza is deeply committed to community development:
- Donated ₦20 million to Anambra State COVID-19 relief efforts.
- Sponsored scholarships for underprivileged students across Nigeria.
- Supported the renovation of schools and churches in Aguata LGA.
- Contributed ₦50 million to APGA, demonstrating his involvement in political and social development.
Personal Life and Public Perception
Marital Status: Married – 28/11/2024
Children: None
Rumored Relationships:
- Frequently linked with Nigerian celebrities, including Mercy Eke, although he remains private about his personal life.
Known for his social media presence, Jowi Zaza often shares snapshots of his lavish lifestyle, earning him admiration and critique alike. Despite controversies around his ostentatious display of wealth, his philanthropy balances public opinion.
Awards and Recognition
- Entrepreneur of the Year (2021) by the Nigerian Business Council.
- Recognized as one of the Top 100 Young African Business Leaders by Forbes Africa (2022).
Controversies and Rumors
- Wealth Origins: Critics often speculate about the source of his wealth, though he attributes it to family inheritance and strategic business expansion.
- Luxury Displays: His social media posts have sparked debates about wealth inequality in Nigeria.
Association with Notable Igbo Figures
Jowi Zaza maintains close relationships with fellow Igbo moguls:
- Obi Cubana: Collaborated on community development projects.
- E-Money: Business partnerships and shared philanthropic goals.
- Chief Sir Joseph Eze Okafor Sr.: His father and mentor, a pioneering figure in Nigeria’s oil industry.
Legacy and Conclusion
Joseph Eze Okafor Jr., aka Jowi Zaza, represents the convergence of tradition and modernity. As a business leader, philanthropist, and cultural icon, he continues to expand his family’s legacy while shaping Nigeria’s entrepreneurial landscape. Balancing success with a commitment to giving back, Jowi Zaza is a testament to the enduring spirit of Igbo innovation and resilience.
Related posts:
Nuella Njubigbo
Destiny Etiko
Inibehe Effiong
Views: 365
N:B Please send your updated CV to: info@igbopeople.org – Editor
© igbopeople.org
All entries on this website will be periodically updated to add, modify, or amend the information or content of existing entries. Consequently, no legal action will be entertained against the biographer for any information considered incomplete or insufficient.