New Book Chronicles VFD Group's Journey
Narrative Landscape, a respected independent publishing house in Nigeria, has announced the public presentation of "The Challengers: The Disruptive Nigerian Entrepreneurs Creating a Billion-Naira Company." The book, authored by Eghosa Imasuen, chronicles the remarkable ascent of VFD Group.
The presentation is scheduled for July 13, 2026, in Lagos. This publication marks a significant shift for Imasuen, known for his coming-of-age novel "Fine Boys," as he ventures into narrative nonfiction.
Imasuen's work delves into how a small group of young Nigerians transformed a failed real estate concept into a multi-billion-naira financial institution. Public attendance is welcomed, with tickets and seating reservations available via tix.africa/discover/chbook26.
Author's Unique Approach to Narrative Nonfiction
The author dedicated three years to researching "The Challengers," gaining access through dozens of unfiltered interviews and hundreds of pages of transcripts. His prior experience in the mortgage banking industry, where he moved in similar professional circles as some VFD founders, facilitated this access.
This existing personal trust was crucial in a corporate culture where financial institutions are often guarded about their history. The book immerses readers in the turbulent period of 2008, when the global financial system faced collapse and markets froze.
From 2008 Crisis to Multi-Billion Naira Enterprise
Against this backdrop, a group of young professionals in Lagos, including Nonso Okpala, Adeniyi Adenubi, Mobolaji Adewumi, Gbenga Omolokun, and Azubike Emodi, embarked on building what would become VFD Group. Their initial ventures included a real estate idea that did not materialize, a few local barbershops, and a small restaurant.
Former Nigerian President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, who penned the book’s foreword, will serve as the Special Guest of Honour at the launch. Dr. Imasuen noted that the aftermath of the 2008 financial crisis created a "perfect environment for the rise of a new kind of Nigerian entrepreneur."
He added, "The founders that I write about realised the truth in the saying, ‘You want to go far, go together.’ I look forward to presenting this story to Nigerians." The launch event will feature a prominent lineup of literary voices.
High-Profile Launch Event Scheduled
Isabella Adediji will compere the event, while Kunle Kasumu of Channels Book Club will deliver the formal book review. A central highlight will be a live, unscripted conversation moderated by media entrepreneur Chude Jideonwo.
Jideonwo will interview Imasuen and the VFD founders to explore how the group scaled into a multi-billion-naira enterprise without relying on a single dominant founder. "The Challengers" ultimately addresses the universal question of whether significant collective achievement is possible without ego.
Due to strict capacity limits at the Lagos venue, early registration is highly recommended. Updates are available by following @narrativelandscape on social media.
