Vwakpor Efuetanu (born November 25, 1993)[1] is a Nigerian entrepreneur, technology advocate, and pastor, known for his work in artificial intelligence education and renewable energy.[2] He is the CEO and founder of Elite Global AI,[3] a subsidiary of Elite Global Intelligence Technology and the CEO of Blizz Renewable Energy Empire Limited (BREE).[1] He was awarded an honorary Doctorate in Artificial Intelligence Technology and Entrepreneurship Sustainability by the Chartered Institute of Public Resources Management and Politics, becoming the first Nigerian to receive this recognition.[4]
Vwakpor Efuetanu | |
|---|---|
 Vwakpor Efuetanu in 2024 | |
| Born | November 25, 1993 Delta State, Nigeria |
| Nationality | Nigerian |
| Education |
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| Occupations |
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| Known for | Artificial intelligence and renewable energy initiatives in Africa |
| Notable work | Founder of Elite Global AI |
| Spouse |
Funmilayo Efuetanu (m. 2022) |
| Awards | Honorary Doctorate in Artificial Intelligence Technology and Entrepreneurship Sustainability(2024) |
| Website | www |
Early life and education
editEfuetanu was born in Warri, Delta State, Nigeria.[3] He attended Step Forward Group of Schools for his primary education from 1995 to 2003,[1] followed by DSC Technical High School from 2004 to 2010.[1] In 2010, he enrolled at the University of Benin, where he graduated with a Bachelor in Medical Biochemistry[4] in 2015.[3] In 2024, he pursued further studies, enrolling in a Master's degree in Procurement Services at the University of Benin[5] and an MBA with a specialization in Artificial Intelligence at Nexford University in Washington, DC.[3] He is a member of the Association for the Advancement of Artificial Intelligence (AAAI), in New York.[2][5][6]
Career
editElite Global AI
editVwakpor Efuetanu is the CEO and founder of Elite Global AI,[3] a subsidiary of the Elite Global Intelligence Technology,[7] an organization aimed at making artificial intelligence (AI) education accessible to young people across Africa, particularly in underserved communities.[8] Under his leadership, Elite Global AI reports having trained over 30,000[1] young people in AI and related fields, with a target of reaching one million individuals[9] by 2030.[10] The organization collaborates with companies such as HP,[11] Beats by Dre,[11] Expedia,[11] and The National Geographic Society[11] to provide industry-related AI training programs. On August 29, 2024, in collaboration with the Edo State Ministry of Science, Technology, and Innovation, and the John Odigie Oyegun Public Service Academy, Elite Global AI hosted a conference on AI technology and digital skills for young people in Edo State.[12] The event sought to equip participants with AI-related knowledge,[13] bringing together AI professionals, technology enthusiasts, investors, and government representatives to discuss the development of AI in Nigeria.[12] Efuetanu’s work in AI education has the stated goals of enhancing professional skills and expanding economic opportunities for African youth.[14] The Elite Global AI was valued at 10 Million Dollars in 2024.[5]
Blizz Renewable Energy Empire Limited (BREE)
editEfuetanu is also the CEO of Blizz Renewable Energy Empire Limited (BREE)[1] in Port Harcourt, Nigeria. Through BREE, he has worked to expand access to affordable solar power, reaching over 5,000 homes[6] and supporting sustainable energy access in Nigerian communities.[5]
Mentorship and The Elite Class
editIn addition to his corporate roles, Efuetanu founded The Elite Class,[5] a mentorship program aimed at supporting young people in career development and personal growth.[2] The program provides participants with guidance in making career choices and developing skills for personal and professional improvement.[3] Through The Elite Class, Efuetanu has supported individuals in securing positions in various companies, including some Fortune 500 firms, and promoting financial independence.[3][6]
Ministry and Religious Leadership
editEfuetanu is also the senior pastor of Grace Edge Ministries,[1] headquartered in Benin City, Edo State, with streaming centers in ten Nigerian states and international locations in Russia, Canada, and the United States.[2] He started his ministry on campus as a student in the University of Benin and it has grown to a membership of over a thousand. His annual programs such as Word Conference, Home Coming, Hot-Spot, and ThisGospel have attracted many across Nigeria and abroad.[3]
Awards and recognition
editEfuetanu was the first Nigerian to receive an honorary Doctorate in Artificial Intelligence Technology and Entrepreneurship Sustainability from the Chartered Institute of Public Resources Management and Politics in Ghana. [15][4][2]
Personal Life
editEfuetanu is married to Pastor Funmilayo Efuetanu.[16]
References
edit- ^ a b c d e f g "Vwakpor Efuetanu: Championing AI Education, Renewable Energy for Transformative Change Across Africa". Independent Nigeria. Retrieved 7 November 2024.
- ^ a b c d e "Vwakpor Efuetanu bags honorary doctorate in Artificial Intelligence". Tribune Online. Retrieved 9 November 2024.
- ^ a b c d e f g h "How I'm Driving AI Growth and Energy Solutions in Africa – Vwakpor Efuetanu". Vanguard Nigeria. Retrieved 7 November 2024.
- ^ a b c "Efuetanu Makes History as First Nigerian to Receive Honorary Doctorate in Artificial Intelligence". Vanguard Nigeria. August 2024. Retrieved 7 November 2024.
- ^ a b c d e "Meet Vwakpor Efuetanu, Founder of AI Start-up Investing in Africa Valued at $10 Million". Nairametrics. 21 October 2024. Retrieved 7 November 2024.
- ^ a b c "People – Elite Global AI". Elite Global AI. Retrieved 9 November 2024.
- ^ "Tech Firm to Launch AI Product to Empower Africa's Future". Vanguard. May 2024. Retrieved 9 November 2024.
- ^ "Tech Firm Set to Launch AI Product, Train Students". The Nation. Retrieved 7 November 2024.
- ^ "Elite Global to Empower 1 Million Youths on AI in Nigeria". TSTGA. Retrieved 9 November 2024.
- ^ "5,000 More Youths to Receive Free AI Training - Elite Global AI". The Sun. Retrieved 7 November 2024.
- ^ a b c d "We've Created Over 5,000 Jobs, Connected Young People to Global Opportunities - Dr. Vwakpor Efuetanu". Independent Nigeria. 7 November 2024. Retrieved 7 November 2024.
- ^ a b "Firm Partners Edo Govt, Empowers Youths in AI, Digital Skills". Vanguard. September 2024. Retrieved 9 November 2024.
- ^ "Elite Global AI Partners Edo Govt, Hosts Conference on Artificial Intelligence Technology". This Day. 6 September 2024. Retrieved 9 November 2024.
- ^ "We Will Champion Future of Artificial Intelligence in Africa – Vwakpor Efuetanu". The Guardian. 9 November 2024. Retrieved 9 November 2024.
- ^ "Fellowship Awards". Chartered Institute of Public Resources Management and Politics. Retrieved 7 November 2024.
- ^ "Funmi & Vwakpor's Love Story & Pre-Wedding Shoot". BellaNaija. March 2023. Retrieved 7 November 2024.