Tony Elumelu (born March 22, 1963, in Jos, Nigeria) is a Nigerian economist, entrepreneur, and philanthropist. He is the Founder of Heirs Holdings and the Tony Elumelu Foundation, and serves as Chairman of United Bank for Africa (UBA) and Transcorp Group.

He began his career in banking and, at age 34, led the acquisition of Standard Trust Bank, transforming it into one of Nigeria’s leading banks. In 2005, he orchestrated its merger with United Bank for Africa, turning UBA into a pan-African financial powerhouse.

Elumelu is best known for championing Africapitalism the belief that Africa’s private sector can drive economic growth and social transformation. Through his foundation, he has empowered over 15,000 African entrepreneurs with funding, training, and mentorship.