An Inspiring Encounter: Hanu Fejiro Reflects on Time Spent with Sir Richard Branson
Have you ever met someone you admired deeply since childhood, someone whose life story not only shaped your thinking but also encouraged you to tread your own path with fearless ambition? Recently, Nigerian entrepreneur and innovator Hanu Fejiro experienced such a powerful encounter—spending quality time with legendary entrepreneur, Sir Richard Branson, on Necker Island, Branson’s spectacular private escape nestled in the clear waters of the British Virgin Islands.
“Ever since I was a kid,” Hanu shared candidly, “Branson ignited a fire within me.” It began years ago when young Hanu picked up a copy of Branson’s inspiring memoir, ‘Losing My Virginity’. A vivid memory remains etched in his mind: reading about Branson’s mother selling her necklace to fund her son’s first venture. Moved and inspired, a hopeful Hanu immediately asked the same of his own mother. “And you know what?” he recounted warmly, “She actually did, without a second thought.”
Years later, what seemed like an improbable dream—the kind that young visionaries often nurture quietly—became reality. Hanu found himself standing face-to-face with his childhood role model on Branson’s legendary Necker Island. Their encounter was not an ordinary meeting; rather, it blossomed into days filled with thoughtful conversations, friendly chess matches on breezy verandas, and leisurely hikes uncovering the island’s lush terrain.
Surprisingly, their conversations were not mainly about glamorous successes or bold headlines. Rather, they delved deep into the quiet, often painful lessons born from past setbacks and trials. “We didn’t just share victories,” Hanu confirmed, his voice ringing with sincerity. “We traded war stories about building significant things in the most challenging of environments.”
Branson, ever the attentive listener, leaned in as Hanu recounted his earliest ventures. “Selling candies at eight years old might seem trivial, but it taught me invaluable lessons about determination,” he emphasized. “Years later, at 21, launching Nigeria’s very first crypto exchange showed me how powerful persistence truly is.” Branson’s response—heartwarming, yet impactful—came with a wide-eyed smile and simple instruction: “You’ve got to write your book.”
Wouldn’t you pause at that very moment, feeling both excitement and uncertainty? Hanu certainly did. Promising to honor that request, he felt the weight of expectation—but also a spark of fire lighting his path forward.
Interestingly, their conversation took a reflective turn as the pair reminisced about Branson’s past experience in Nigeria. During its height, Virgin Atlantic once thrived greatly within Nigerian skies, offering renowned service and memorable flights. Yet, like every good venture in tough environments, it also faced unique and complicated hurdles eventually leading to Branson’s reluctant withdrawal. Still, he retains tremendous fondness for Nigeria, expressing admiration for its vibrant energy and unwavering entrepreneurial spirit.
Of course, their dialogue moved towards the exciting, fast-paced world of blockchain and digital finance as well. Hanu warmly noted, “We spoke openly about crypto, the transformative potential of blockchain, and how emerging markets hold immense possibility when innovation and opportunity collide.”
The trip wasn’t entirely business discussions, however. It was made even more memorable through genuine human connection. Hanu had the pleasure of meeting Branson’s family—including his welcoming wife, charming son, and playful grandchildren—a beautiful personal touch that added warmth and humanity to their professional dialogue.
Returning home to Lagos, Hanu felt profoundly touched and reinvigorated. “This incredible encounter with Sir Richard reinforced a vital truth for me,” he thoughtfully shared online afterward. “It deeply reminded me that greatness, real greatness, is almost always borne from struggles, adversities and difficult lessons.”
Yet, just as he prepared to bid farewell, Branson posed one more gentle, impactful challenge: “Promise me you’ll get that book out,” he insisted softly yet firmly. With a grin, Hanu admitted frankly later, “When someone of Sir Richard Branson’s wisdom and experience asks such a thing, can you really say no?”
From a little boy selling candy on the bustling streets of Lagos, to becoming a pioneering entrepreneur who shaped Nigeria’s crypto landscape, to being personally guided by one of the world’s most iconic business leaders—it’s a remarkable journey. And this extraordinary encounter seems destined to ignite not only a new chapter in Hanu’s personal journey, but also inspire a generation of young Nigerians watching his every move.
Such stories raise a central question within each one of us: Are we brave enough to chase down our dreams and overcome any adversity that comes our way?
For Hanu Fejiro, it seems the next chapter is just beginning. And if it’s anywhere near as compelling as the ones before, we’re going to want front row seats to watch this unfold.
