Oladipupo Akinkunmi Reflects on Pioneering Excellence in Nigeria’s Luxury Event, Real Estate sector

By Samuel Oluwatosin

From running errands in a modest Christian household to founding Africa’s most recognized Black-owned luxury event design company, Dr. Oladipupo Akinkunmi Joseph’s story is a powerful reminder that greatness often starts from the most unlikely places.

As the founder of Alveena Events and Nests and Nails Properties, Dr. Oladipupo has built a name synonymous with creativity, resilience, and entrepreneurial brilliance. His journey, he says, has been anything but straightforward. “Success is not about avoiding failure,” he reflects, “but learning and growing through it, with faith, resilience, and a clear purpose.”

Born into a family weathering the storms of marital instability, Oladipupo stepped into adult responsibilities early in life. He became the cook, the cleaner, the caretaker — a role model to his siblings before he was even old enough to vote. But in those daily chores, he unknowingly developed leadership, selflessness, and the ability to persevere under pressure. By his teenage years, that same resilience found a new outlet — entrepreneurship. He started with handcrafted greeting cards, then moved on to a computer training school using just one system in his father’s office. By university, he was managing a video rental business and selling artworks, one of which was purchased by a senior lecturer, Prof. Ahmadu Sessay, for ₦5,000. These weren’t just hustles; they were the seeds of a bigger dream.

In 2013, Oladipupo made a life-altering decision — resigning from his role as a Legislative Aide to pursue a bold vision: to transform the African events industry. That leap of faith gave birth to Alveena Events, and with just a one-million-naira loan from his cousin, he set out to redefine luxury event design across the continent. Today, Alveena Events stands as a globally celebrated brand, known for pushing creative boundaries and delivering immersive, high-end experiences.

His wife and partner, Architect Mrs. Tolulope Oladipupo, now serves as the CEO of the company. Under her leadership, Alveena has seen its growth triple in just two years. Together, they’ve fused their backgrounds in creative arts and architecture into a powerful brand philosophy: deliver more than clients expect and never compromise on excellence. “We weren’t trying to be average,” Dr. Oladipupo explained. “We studied the greats, invested in learning, and surrounded ourselves with mentors and people who believed in our vision.”

He credits key influences like Pastor Matthew Ashimolowo, Pastor Sam Adeyemi, Pastor Biodun Fatoyinbo, and his mentor, Senator Betty Apiafi, for helping shape both his mindset and his business acumen. Their teachings on integrity, innovation, and faith continue to influence how Alveena navigates the ever-evolving world of high-end events.

The COVID-19 pandemic, however, brought with it an awakening. With global events halted, Dr. Oladipupo decided to pivot — selling off assets to invest in Nigeria’s real estate sector. That bold move led to the birth of Nests and Nails Properties, a fast-rising real estate firm focused on affordable, quality living spaces for Nigerians. Rather than seek opportunities abroad, he chose to build at home, channeling his experience into local development and economic empowerment.

Today, Dr. Oladipupo also serves as the Secretary of the Real Estate Developers Association of Nigeria (REDAN) in the FCT and chairs the Board of Trustees of the Association of Creative Event Designers Abuja (ACEDA), where he advocates for professionalism, innovation, and growth across both industries.

The journey hasn’t been without obstacles. Financial limitations, staffing issues, and the pressures of scaling a luxury brand in Nigeria required deep sacrifice and strategic reinvestment. “Delayed gratification has been one of our biggest disciplines,” he said. “Every penny was ploughed back into the business — new props, better talent, improved customer experience.”

Alveena’s groundbreaking themed events — from Crazy Rich Asians and Gardens by the Bay to The Louvre — have earned the brand international acclaim, setting a benchmark in African event design. His academic qualifications, including an MBA in Human Resource and Organizational Psychology and a Doctorate in Business Administration, have helped him build and lead highly motivated teams capable of executing world-class events under intense pressure.

Perhaps more importantly, Dr. Oladipupo has committed himself to mentorship, helping young creatives understand that luxury is not just about glitz and glamour. “One misconception about luxury event design is that it’s all about spending money. But true luxury lies in storytelling, thoughtful design, and the emotional connection you create. It’s about crafting memories that last, not just moments that impress.”

When asked about what keeps him going, he speaks with sincerity. “Alveena is like a child to us. Watching it grow, evolve, and touch lives is what fuels our passion. The feedback from clients, the tears of joy, the ‘wow’ moments — those are the things that make the long nights and sacrifices worth it.”

Looking ahead, the future is full of promise. Alveena is working on several projects set to raise the bar for African luxury. From hiring new creative talent to designing concepts that blend African culture with global standards, the goal is to position the brand as a reference point for excellence not just in Nigeria, but across the world.

His final word for aspiring entrepreneurs is clear and compelling: “Dare to be different. Excellence is in the details. Innovate, stay passionate, and invest in your vision. Your breakthrough is possible — but only if you stay relentless and true to your purpose.”

From his first business venture at 15 to leading two of the most respected brands in Nigeria’s creative and property spaces, Dr. Oladipupo Akinkunmi Joseph has proven that humble beginnings are not a limitation — they are often the perfect foundation for a lasting legacy.