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Elizade is the brainchild of Chief Michael Ade Ojo. The
company evolved from a VISION, apparently made manifest through divine
favours; but which Chief Ade Ojo readily accepted as a MISSION.
The dreams that gave birth to Elizade started with the relationship between Chief
Ade Ojo his wife, Mrs. Elizabeth Wuraola Ojo, when both met as students at the
University of Nigeria, Nsukka in the early 60s. Chief Ade Ojo, who was studying
Business Administration as one of the pioneer students of that course then, had
vowed to establish and run a business of his own within 10 years of his working
life. (He fulfilled the vow within six years). The name, ELIZADE – coined
from ‘Elizabeth’ his wife’s first name and ‘Ade” his
own middle name instantly struck him as a viable company name.
Thus, in 1968, only a couple of years after he left the University, Chief Ade
Ojo registered a business name, which he called Elizade Trading Stores. It was
one of the first business names in Nigeria to have evolved from an inspiration
triggered by nuptial union. That inspiration has remained the main propelling
force behind Elizade’s successes over the years.
Foresight, determination and self-discipline, which have ruled the relationship
of the founding couple, have also been the major pillars supporting the company’ continual
growth. Thus in quick succession, Elizade Trading Stores, which handles general
textile sales (including underwear) was followed with Elizade Independent Agencies
(formed in 1971) with a focus on automobile marketing.
This business expanded quickly, with Toyota as the main product. In June 1973,
the company was formally incorporated as Elizade Nigeria Limited and in 1976
the company secured Federal Government license, along with four other firms,
to become a direct distributor of Toyota Vehicles and spare parts in Nigeria.
Notably, of the four firms so licensed in 1976, only Elizade Nigeria Limited
still remains afloat till today. |
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