Table of Contents
Key Points
- Adebayo Ogunlesi joins OpenAI’s board, bringing expertise in corporate finance, infrastructure investment, and global market strategy.
- Ogunlesi’s appointment follows GIP’s $12.5 billion alliance with BlackRock, solidifying his influence in business and technology sectors.
- With a $1.7 billion net worth, Ogunlesi ranks 1,917th on Forbes’ wealth list, marking Nigeria’s growing global economic presence.
Nigerian billionaire Adebayo Ogunlesi has expanded his influence in the business and technology sectors, joining the board of directors at OpenAI, the American artificial intelligence research organization behind ChatGPT.
This appointment marks a significant step for Ogunlesi, reflecting his leadership and experience in shaping global infrastructure and corporate strategy.
Announcing the appointment, OpenAI stated: “We’re pleased to announce Adebayo Ogunlesi has joined our Board of Directors. As Founding Partner, Chairman, and Chief Executive Officer of Global Infrastructure Partners (GIP), one of the world’s premier infrastructure investing platforms, and a Senior Managing Director at BlackRock, Mr. Ogunlesi brings deep leadership experience and expertise across corporate finance, infrastructure investment, and global market strategy.”
OpenAI taps Ogunlesi after GIP deal
The company highlighted Ogunlesi’s extensive experience, particularly following GIP’s landmark $12.5 billion deal with BlackRock in January 2024, which established a leading multi-asset infrastructure investment platform.
OpenAI noted that his appointment enhances the board’s capabilities in AI safety, cybersecurity, regulatory oversight, and economic governance, supporting the organization’s mission to advance safe and beneficial artificial general intelligence (AGI).
Adebayo Ogunlesi brings leadership expertise
Bret Taylor, Chair of OpenAI’s Board, praised Ogunlesi’s exceptional leadership, stating, “Adebayo Ogunlesi has an outstanding record of driving success in global organizations, navigating complex commercial landscapes with expertise. We’re honored to welcome him to the board.”
Expressing his enthusiasm, Ogunlesi said: “The rapid advancement of AI presents a unique opportunity to create a better future. Thoughtful strategies and investments in infrastructure are essential to unlocking AI’s full potential and delivering its benefits responsibly. I’m excited to contribute to this effort and look forward to collaborating with the OpenAI team.”
Ogunlesi joins Nigeria’s billionaire ranks
Ogunlesi’s recent achievements underscore his growing prominence. Following GIP’s strategic alliance with BlackRock, his net worth rose to $1.7 billion, earning him the title of Nigeria’s fifth billionaire.
Forbes’ valuation places him among the world’s top 2,000 wealthiest individuals, ranking 1,917th. This milestone adds to Africa’s expanding list of high-net-worth individuals, highlighting Ogunlesi’s influence and success in the global economic landscape.
