Belinda Ajoke Olubunmi Disu has absorbed the finest nutrients from the mighty tree and blossomed into a magnificent orchard of her own, bearing fruits that continue to nourish many.
As this quintessential beacon of brilliance marks her milestone 40th birthday, Nigeria and indeed the entire African continent have every reason to roll out the red carpet in celebration of a lady whose unwavering determination, sharp intellect, multifaceted talents, and generous heart have carved a legacy far beyond her illustrious maiden surname.
Born on May 29, 1986, Bella’s story is one of relentless excellence, disciplined ambition, and graceful leadership. Her academic foundation is rock-solid, including a bachelor’s degree in International Relations from the University of Massachusetts and a Master’s in Science from Northeastern University. Those formative Boston years did more than sharpen her mind as they also forged strong bonds with the Nigerian community abroad, grounding her in both global perspectives and deep-rooted African values.
As Executive Vice Chairman of Globacom, Bella has been instrumental in steering Nigeria’s leading telecommunications giant through an ever-evolving digital landscape. Her strategic input has helped sustain innovation, expand access, and keep the company competitive while bridging the digital divide across Nigeria and Ghana. Yet her influence extends impressively across sectors.
As CEO of Cobblestone Properties and Estates Limited, she has masterminded landmark developments that are redefining Lagos living and the Nigerian skyline. From the sophisticated Bella’s Place office complex and The Mall at Ile-Oja in Opebi, to the premium Ilé-Ọjà retail destination on Victoria Island, and the flagship Sisi Paris luxury residential apartments, a project so elegant it stands as one of the city’s most admired addresses. These creations beautifully blend aesthetic sophistication with everyday functionality, reflecting her keen eye for design and practical excellence.
In manufacturing and construction, her impact is equally profound. As Chairman of Abumet Nigeria Limited, Bella has championed innovation in façade technologies and energy-efficient, sustainable building solutions, positioning the company as a forward-thinking leader.
On the board of Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, she brings youthful energy, 21st-century insights, and strategic contributions to key committees covering audit, remuneration, communications strategy, training, and development.
Apparently, there have been numerous profiles written about such a rare corporate gem over the years, including by us but since those earlier profiles of her remarkable journey, Bella has continued to stack impressive achievements. Her delightful children’s book, Soso and The Kako Leaf, published in June 2022, has been warmly received, earning a Gold Mom’s Choice Award and glowing 5-star reviews for its engaging storytelling and cultural richness.
In 2024, she launched the She Glows Programme at Globacom, a vibrant initiative designed to nurture female leaders through mentorship, skills development, and empowering conversations. The programme has already hosted successful summits, including memorable editions in Abuja, creating supportive spaces where women share stories, gain practical tools, and build networks for career and personal growth.
Her philanthropy continues to expand meaningfully through the Bella Disu Foundation, which focuses on education, women’s empowerment, health, youth development, and community outreach. Recent efforts include school upgrades, support for underserved families, and partnerships that deliver tangible, sustainable change. Recognition has followed her impact: listings on the prestigious Choiseul 100 Africa ranking in 2022 and 2023, honour as one of Arise News’ “80 Exceptional Women Making Impact,” and repeated inclusion in the Lagos State #Eko100 Women initiative by Governor Sanwo-Olu for three consecutive years.
She remains a sought-after speaker at platforms like the Africa CEO Forum, where her passionate, insightful delivery always leaves audiences inspired. She has been spotlighted on the prestigious cover of Forbes Africa as a pioneering tech star and philanthropist.
This same passion for growth shone brightly on the TEDx Ikoyi stage, where she captivated the audience with her deeply moving talk, “Say Yes Now: Why Readiness is a Myth.” By beautifully weaving together corporate lessons and personal vulnerability, she reminded us all that we don’t need perfect conditions to start creating our future. She has been named as one of the 80 Women Making Impact in Nigeria by Arise News.. Just six months ago, she was elevated to a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Directors. She has won numerous other accolades to mention,
Beyond the boardroom, Bella is a true polymath who brings joy and creativity into everything she touches. She speaks English and Yoruba fluently, with strong French and a commendable command of Igbo. A lover of the arts, she plays the keyboard and occasionally the saxophone with impressive skill, delighting family and friends at gatherings. She dances with infectious energy, maintains a deep appreciation for highlife classics and Nigerian musical legends, and is known as a passionate baker who whips up delightful cinnamon rolls and cupcakes. A tennis enthusiast, she has even launched the Bella Disu Open, giving back to a sport she has grown to love. Fashion-forward and once a runway walker herself, she maintains a radiant, fit presence that inspires many.
Those who know her well often point to her ISF personality traits: dependable, practical, aesthetically sensitive, loyal, and deeply nurturing. The childhood lesson from her multi-billionaire father (one of the richest men in the world), Otunba (Dr) Mike Adenuga Jr;who had her deliberately damaged school bag repaired rather than replaced, remains a guiding story of value, discipline, and resilience. That same determination helped her transform her physique years ago through focused effort, turning a personal goal into lasting inspiration for others. A devoted wife to the charming Mr. Jameel Disu and a loving mother to their children (with Sisi Paris named sweetly after her lovely daughter), Bella balances high-level corporate responsibilities with family as her foremost priority.
As Director of the Mike Adenuga Centre, she continues to promote French-Nigerian cultural exchange, a passion that earned her the prestigious French national honour, Chevalier dans l’Ordre des Arts et des Lettres, conferred by President Emmanuel Macron. This makes her one of the youngest recipients of that honour globally. At 40, Bella Disu stands as a shining example of a Renaissance woman who honours her roots while forging her own formidable path.
She is not content to rest on her legacy; she actively builds, inspires, empowers, and creates. Whether in telecoms, real estate, manufacturing, culture, or philanthropy, her touch leaves things better than she met them. As she blows out the candles on this milestone birthday cake, surrounded by family, friends, colleagues, and the many lives she has touched, the message rings clear: Bella is just entering her prime. Her light continues to grow brighter, and the best chapters of her story are undoubtedly still being written. Happy 40th Birthday. She is characteristically expected to keep leading with grace, inspiring with passion, and building with excellence. Nigeria, Africa and of course the world are infinitely brighter and better because of her.
KELECHI OKORIE
