Engineer-Turned-Entrepreneur, Engr. Prince Ekpen Kenneth Oyakhilomhen, Expands Business Footprint and Community Impact

Nigerian engineer and entrepreneur, Engr. Prince Ekpen Kenneth Oyakhilomhen, has continued to strengthen his footprint across construction, automobile sales, and community development through his companies, including EL-GATO GLOBAL LIMITED and EL-GATO AUTOS.

Founded in 2012 and formally registered in 2018, EL-GATO GLOBAL LIMITED has grown into a multi-sector enterprise with interests spanning building construction and automotive services. The company’s founder, Engr. Oyakhilomhen, is a trained Marine and Civil Engineer with two undergraduate degrees and a Master’s degree in Civil Engineering from the University of Benin.

A native of Esan from Uromi in Esan North-East Local Government Area of Edo State, Oyakhilomhen began his journey at a Federal Technical College where he studied brick and concrete laying before advancing to tertiary education. His professional background in construction has seen him deliver lounges, restaurants, and various structural facilities for clients across Nigeria.

Speaking on his motivation, Oyakhilomhen attributed his resilience to early exposure to business through his parents. “Growing up was not all rosy. I worked alongside my parents from a young age to meet responsibilities. A conversation with my father in 2013 shaped my outlook — he reminded me that time waits for no one and every delay could cost an opportunity,” he said.

Beyond construction, he leads EL-GATO AUTOS, a Lagos-based automobile firm specializing in the sale of cars and trucks, alongside offering professional consultation services to clients.

Over the years, Engr. Oyakhilomhen has received multiple recognitions from institutions and organizations, including the AAU Medical Faculty, University of Benin Comrade Community, Edo State Comrade Community, National Association of Edo State Students, Ransko Network, and NIDSUG, among others.

Industry observers note that his diversified portfolio reflects a broader trend of young Nigerian entrepreneurs combining technical expertise with business innovation. With expansion plans underway, Oyakhilomhen says continued growth and self-improvement remain central to his vision.