What I Learnt During My Career’s Darkest Season — Dare Osamo
The Chief Executive Officer of Impact Energy and Logistics Ltd, Mr. Dare Osamo, has narrated how a major business dispute and prolonged legal battle tested his values, faith, and professional resilience at the peak of his career.
Osamo, who has over 16 years’ experience across banking, oil and gas, aviation, and corporate finance, said his journey to the top was shaped by humble beginnings, strong family influence, and early professional mentorship.
He grew up in Ekiti State with his grandmother, whom he described as his greatest influence, noting that her discipline, work ethic and protective nature formed the foundation of his character.
He later moved to Lagos after secondary school and began his professional journey as an office assistant in Festac Community Bank.
The bank’s chairman, the late Mr. Olowole, inspired him to pursue accountancy and supported him in obtaining his first ICAN form, marking the start of his path into finance.
Osamo went on to become a chartered accountant while still in college and subsequently held strategic roles in stockbroking, investment banking and commercial banking, managing multi-billion naira portfolios.
He later transitioned into entrepreneurship, founding advisory and energy firms, which broadened his leadership experience.
He explained that for him, success is measured not by wealth, but by impact, mentorship and service to society.
He described himself as quiet and reflective outside work, with interests in reading, writing, football and personal development.
However, he noted that the most challenging moment of his career came during his time as Managing Director of Star Orient Nigeria Ltd, an aviation fuel company.
He said he was appointed to the board by a friend and later helped bring in a joint-venture partner, but disagreements emerged within nine months, leading to disputes over ownership and loyalty.
According to him, when he refused to deny the founder of the company, he came under pressure from other directors who wanted him to take a different position.
The disagreement led to petitions against him to multiple law enforcement agencies, public allegations of financial misconduct and a prolonged legal dispute.Osamo said he was forced out of the company “with nothing,” and spent more than four years responding to investigations, facing public scrutiny and fighting to clear his name.
He added that the experience took a heavy toll on his health, business and family life, and set him back significantly.
He said the legal matter was finally resolved on January 24, 2024, when a Lagos State High Court discharged him, bringing an end to what he described as “years of torment.”
He expressed gratitude to God, his family and a few friends who stood by him.Reflecting on the ordeal, Osamo said the experience reinforced his belief that “God is greater than man,” and taught him the importance of maintaining hope and avoiding blind trust in business relationships.
He noted that the episode has changed how he relates with people, adding that he now pays more attention to actions than words.
He advised those facing difficult circumstances not to give up, but to maintain integrity and faith, stating that “no matter how long it takes, truth will always prevail.”
