In a resounding celebration of excellence, innovation, and global leadership, Michael Okereke was named one of the winners at the prestigious 2022 City People Outstanding Talents Awards on December 5, 2022. Organised by City People Magazine, Nigeria’s leading lifestyle and media platform, the awards highlight distinguished individuals who have reshaped industries, elevated national reputation, and demonstrated exceptional professional impact.
Michael was awarded under the Outstanding Talent in Infrastructure & Strategic Business Development category, a testament to his expansive career, extraordinary leadership in project development, and his role in redefining what it means to drive infrastructure growth across continents.
Selection Process: Recognising the Best of the Best
The City People Outstanding Talents Award is one of the most competitive and credible platforms for professional recognition in Nigeria and across the African diaspora. Nominations are open to the public and peer institutions, with shortlisted candidates undergoing a comprehensive evaluation by a panel of experts, journalists, and sector leaders.
Candidates are assessed based on clearly defined criteria, including professional accomplishments, industry influence, innovation, leadership, public service, and contribution to national development. In Michael’s case, his nomination was propelled by an impressive record of business transformation, global partnerships, and operational impact across infrastructure, marine, and EPC sectors.
A Trailblazer in Infrastructure, Strategy, and Global Partnerships
Michael Okereke is widely recognised as a transformative figure in the world of infrastructure and strategic business development. His professional journey reflects a rare combination of technical competence, leadership intelligence, and commercial foresight. From marine engineering to energy and urban infrastructure, Michael has shaped projects that have not only altered skylines but also strengthened economic ecosystems.
He has consistently led high-value business development portfolios for some of the most respected global construction and engineering firms, delivering tangible value through infrastructure expansion, project finance, and cross-border partnerships. Under his leadership, companies have won and delivered multibillion-dollar projects in regions that span the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), Africa, and parts of Europe and Asia.
One of Michael’s most defining qualities is his ability to identify and capitalise on market opportunities through strategic alliances and localisation. A prime example was his orchestration of a technology licensing agreement with a U.S.-based patent holder in polymer technology, enabling a UAE-based contractor to manufacture advanced polymer concrete segments locally. This innovation directly supported the Dubai Strategic Sewerage Tunnel Project, valued at $18 billion.
His work with leading stakeholders ranging from energy companies, ports, and sovereign wealth funds to developers, regulators, and international consultants demonstrates his role as a high-level connector and solutions architect.
Leadership Beyond Contracts: Strategy, Technology, and Stakeholder Influence
Michael’s influence is not confined to project awards or execution. He has architected the development of cutting-edge tools, including bespoke Client Relationship Management (CRM) platforms, to streamline forecasting, bid efficiency, and client engagement. His systems have successfully managed over $12 billion in leads, enabling real-time data-driven decisions in intensely competitive markets.
He is also a strategist who integrates policy, geopolitics, and trade intelligence into project delivery. In engagements with high-level clients across the Middle East and Africa, he has frequently advised on sustainable business models, public-private partnership (PPP) frameworks, and long-term investment strategies that mitigate risk in complex infrastructure ventures.
Michael is well-regarded for fostering a culture of excellence and stakeholder trust. He has collaborated with and maintained productive alliances with global engineering consulting firms, including Parsons, AECOM, Jacobs, and WSP. He has continuously served as a vital bridge between governments, regulators, and contractors in the Middle East Infrastructure Forum, organised by Middle East Economic Digest (MEED) and ME Construction, a United Arab Emirates-based think tank, to promote and formulate effective policies in the industry.
Global Academic and Professional Foundation
His robust professional background is reinforced by world-class education. Michael holds a Master of Business Administration from Alliance Manchester Business School and has undertaken advanced executive programs at the London Business School, including several courses on Project and Infrastructure Finance, as well as courses from Mazars, a leading global Project Finance Institute.
His professional development portfolio includes certifications in financial modelling, renewable energy project finance, and dynamic risk management—credentials that enhance his multidisciplinary insight and enable him to lead with both technical and strategic precision.
Celebrating a Well-Earned Honour
The announcement of Michael Okereke as a 2022 City People Award recipient was met with wide acclaim in both professional and academic circles. His recognition not only honours past successes but also signals a continuing journey marked by impact, transformation, and thought leadership.
In his acceptance remarks, Michael reflected:
“This recognition is a reminder that excellence is a journey built on people, purpose, and perseverance. I share this honour with every colleague, mentor, and partner who believed in what we could build together.”
This award serves as both a celebration and an affirmation: that leadership rooted in integrity, innovation, and service is timeless, and that Michael Okereke’s contributions to infrastructure and business development continue to shape nations and inspire professionals worldwide.
