Solomon Ojeagbase
Executive Director of Complete Sports
Solomon Ojeagbase: Driving Growth Through Ownership and Innovation
In today’s fast-changing business landscape, few leaders stand out for their ability to adapt, evolve, and inspire with quiet consistency. Solomon Ojeagbase is one such leader whose journey reflects resilience, self-belief, and a strong sense of responsibility. From an academic background in International Relations to building a career in the tech-driven media space, his path has been shaped by curiosity and a willingness to step into the unknown. As a leader, he brings a grounded approach that balances discipline with innovation, creating an environment where people are encouraged to grow, think independently, and contribute meaningfully. His work continues to influence both his organization and the wider community, especially through initiatives that promote wellness and forward-thinking strategies.
Q&A
Let’s start with your journey. How did it all begin, and what led you to where you are today?
My journey began during my National Youth Service Corps. I remember being asked a question during an interview that stayed with me. I was asked what I could bring to the table and how my qualifications could drive growth for the business. At that time, I had studied International Relations and was working at a logistics company.
That moment made me pause and reflect. I started exploring new possibilities and came across an old email invitation to Facebook from years back. It sparked my interest in technology and made me think about how I could transition into that space. That curiosity marked the beginning of my journey into tech and media.
What kept you motivated along the way, and what values guide your leadership today?
One of the biggest realizations I had early in life is that you are responsible for your own outcomes. No one owes you anything once you become an adult. That mindset pushed me to take ownership of my life and decisions.
This sense of responsibility continues to guide me as a leader. I believe that taking ownership is the first step toward creating opportunities and achieving meaningful results.
Every journey comes with challenges. Can you share a defining moment and how you handled it?
A major turning point came in 2017 when one of our key partners was acquired by a company in the United States. As a result, we lost their support, especially in areas like technology and monetization.
It was a difficult period for us because we were already operating with a reduced team. However, we adapted by focusing on a lean business model. We made sure not to overcomplicate things and stayed committed to delivering timely and factual content to our audience.
That phase taught us how to manage resources better and focus on what truly matters. It shaped the organization into what it is today.
Innovation and collaboration are essential today. How do you build these within your team?
We have a unique process called “Mind Mapping” that we carry out every year. Each team member writes down their ideas and goals for the company, and the process is anonymous.
We then come together to review all the ideas and create a unified strategy for the year. This approach ensures that everyone’s voice is heard and encourages creative thinking across the organization.
In your view, what separates great leaders from the rest?
I believe leadership is about leading by example. It is not about telling people what to do, but showing them how it is done.
I have worked across different departments in the organization, so I understand how each part functions. This helps me guide the team effectively and also encourages them to take ownership of their roles.
When people understand that everyone has a role to play and that no one is indispensable, it pushes them to be more creative and committed.
Mentorship often shapes a leader’s path. Who influenced you, and how do you pass that on?
My father, Dr. Emmanuel-Sunny Ojeagbase, was my greatest mentor. He guided me through many challenges and taught me the importance of patience and consistency.
He always emphasized playing the long game instead of looking for quick wins. His words have stayed with me over the years. I often share these lessons with my team, especially during retreats, to help them stay grounded and focused.
How do you keep your organization aligned in an ever-changing market?
For me, staying aligned means staying focused on the core purpose of the organization while remaining flexible in execution. We continuously evaluate our processes and ensure that we are meeting the needs of our audience.
We also embrace tools and systems that help us stay efficient, which allows us to respond quickly to changes in the market.
Looking back, what experiences have shaped your leadership style the most?
In my early years, I spent a lot of time reading biographies. One person who influenced me greatly was Kofi Annan.
His calm approach, discipline, and strong sense of integrity shaped how I view leadership. I try to reflect those qualities in the way I lead and interact with others.
What advice would you give to emerging leaders who want to make an impact?
I always say that success takes time. Nothing meaningful happens overnight. It requires patience, hard work, and consistency.
Another important lesson is to be cautious of things that seem too easy or too good to be true. Staying grounded and focused on long-term goals is what truly makes a difference.
What excites you most about the future of your organization and the industry?
The rise of AI and machine learning is something I find very exciting. We are already using AI to improve some of our internal processes, including our annual strategy planning.
Beyond business, I am also proud of initiatives like the Complete Sports Celebrity Workout. It promotes fitness and mental well-being, especially among business leaders and professionals.
It is important to create impact not just within the organization, but also in the wider community.
Closing Thoughts
Solomon Ojeagbase’s journey is a testament to the power of self-awareness, discipline, and steady growth. His leadership reflects a clear belief that success is built over time through consistent effort and thoughtful decisions. By combining traditional values like patience and integrity with modern tools such as AI, he continues to shape a forward-looking organization that remains grounded in purpose. Beyond business, his commitment to wellness and community impact highlights a broader vision of leadership, one that goes beyond profit and focuses on meaningful change.
https://www.completesports.
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