Accolades for ex-presidential candidate Hashim as he turns 56
Tributes are pouring in from across political, corporate and religious circles as Dr. Gbenga Joel Hashim, a former presidential candidate and chairman of Transnational Energy Limited, clocks 56. Widely recognised as a bridge-builder in Nigerian politics and a key player in Africa’s energy sector, Hashim’s birthday today has attracted commendations from business associates, political allies, […]
Tributes are pouring in from across political, corporate and religious circles as Dr. Gbenga Joel Hashim, a former presidential candidate and chairman of Transnational Energy Limited, clocks 56.
Widely recognised as a bridge-builder in Nigerian politics and a key player in Africa’s energy sector, Hashim’s birthday today has attracted commendations from business associates, political allies, and religious leaders, who describe him as “principled, courageous and impactful.”
Born in 1969 in Yelwa, Yauri Local Government Area of Kebbi State to a Yoruba mother and Hausa father, Hashim spent his formative years in New Bussa, Niger State, where he was raised by his stepfather. A Christian by faith, he began his education at NEPA Junior Staff School, New Bussa, and later attended Cherubim and Seraphim College, Ilorin. He also studied at the University of Lagos and the University of Buckingham in the UK, where he earned a Master’s degree in Global Affairs, graduating top of his class and winning the prestigious Max Bellof Prize.
With over three decades of experience in the private and public sectors, Hashim has been lauded for his role in promoting economic growth, particularly in Nigeria’s energy industry. He chairs Oilworld Limited, operators of OPL 241 on Nigeria’s continental shelf, and Transnational Energy Limited, which holds the licence for PPL 221. He also leads Bresson A.S. Limited, developers of the 90MW Magboro Independent Power Project.
Despite his business success, Hashim has retained a strong political presence. He was a founding deputy national publicity secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and previously served as the spokesperson of the National Democratic Party. His involvement in the G-34 Initiative under the supervision of Professor Jerry Gana in the late 1990s contributed to Nigeria’s return to democratic rule.
Associates say Hashim’s refusal to celebrate his birthday with fanfare reflects his sensitivity to the nation’s current challenges. However, admirers plan to document his contributions to nation-building and the energy sector as a tribute to his legacy.
“By a rare mix of professionalism, self-discipline and refreshing relevance to contemporary needs, Hashim has impacted the lives of many individuals and institutions,” one associate noted. “He is worthy of emulation.”
Hashim, who currently leads the Covenant Altar of Worship Ministry (Upper Room Assembly), has also been a vocal advocate for displaced persons, supporting feeding initiatives at several IDP camps nationwide.
He has received numerous awards, including the Kwame Nkrumah African Leadership Award from the All African Students Union in 2003, a Veteran Award from the International Union of Students and the World Federation of Democratic Youth in 2005, and a 2000 Nigerian Union of Journalists award for professional excellence.
As Hashim marks this milestone, his admirers describe him as a “complete detribalised Nigerian” with a “visionary grasp of political economy and global finance,” who continues to inspire a new generation of leaders across Africa.