In a night of glitz, recognition, and celebration of excellence, Chief Cyril Okoye, the quintessential marketer and innovative manufacturer, was awarded the prestigious Industrialist of the Year 2024 by The Sun at a grand ceremony held on March 1, 2025, at the Eko Hotels and Suites, Lagos.
Chief Okoye, the Chairman and CEO of Grape Tree International Limited, stood tall among other distinguished honorees, solidifying his reputation as a trailblazer in Nigeria’s industrial landscape. His recognition comes as a testament to his unwavering commitment to driving industrial growth, creating employment opportunities, and championing innovative manufacturing solutions that have contributed to the nation’s economic development.
Under Chief Cyril Okoye’s leadership, Grape Tree International Limited has evolved into a powerhouse, renowned for its high-quality products and strategic marketing approaches. His forward-thinking business model focuses not only on profit but also on fostering local content development, supporting small-scale manufacturers, and promoting sustainable practices within the industrial sector.
Speaking shortly after receiving the award, Chief Okoye expressed his gratitude to The Sun for acknowledging his contributions to the industrial sector. He dedicated the honor to his team at Grape Tree International and emphasized the importance of resilience and innovation in building a thriving manufacturing ecosystem.
“This award is not just about me; it’s about every hardworking Nigerian industrialist striving to make a difference. It is a call to do more, to innovate more, and to uplift others as we build a stronger economy for our nation,” Okoye said.
Notably, Chief Cyril Okoye shared the spotlight with another deserving co-awardee in the Industrialist of the Year category — Chief Chika Emenike, the Founder and Chairman of Kotex Group. Chief Emenike has also made remarkable strides in the industrial sector, known for his entrepreneurial prowess and transformative leadership that have expanded Kotex Group’s influence across various industries.
The Sun Awards have long been recognized as a platform that celebrates outstanding individuals who have made significant impacts in their respective fields, and this year’s event was no exception. From business magnates to public servants, the evening highlighted the resilience, creativity, and leadership of Nigerians propelling the nation forward.
Chief Okoye’s recognition reinforces his legacy as a pillar of industrial growth in Nigeria, inspiring a new generation of entrepreneurs to embrace innovation, sustainability, and excellence.
As the world witnesses yet another giant stride in the industrial space, Chief Cyril Okoye’s Industrialist of the Year award stands as a beacon of what dedication, vision, and hard work can achieve.
