MEET THE OWNER OF RIVER PARK ESTATE
Mr. Paul Ufoegbunem Odili
Visionary Entrepreneur | Philanthropist | Founder, Fountain of Joy and Comfort Foundation | Chairman, Paulo Group of Companies | Education Advocate
Mr. Paul Ufogebunem Odili is an accomplished Nigerian entrepreneur, philanthropist, and visionary leader whose impact spans across business, humanitarian service, and education. With over two decades of consistent excellence in enterprise development, Mr. Odili has built an enduring legacy defined by innovation, compassion, and transformational leadership.
Born to the late Chief Lawrence Nwabunor and Chief (Mrs.) Margaret Odili of Ute Ogbeje in Delta State, Mr. Odili’s formative years were deeply rooted in Christian values. From a young age, he was taught about the love of Jesus Christ—a principle that has become the cornerstone of his life and work. These early lessons on faith, humility, and service shaped his worldview and inspired his lifelong commitment to improving lives.
On January 27th, 2011, Mr. Odili experienced a profound spiritual encounter that redefined his life’s purpose. In a vision, God revealed to him two groups of people—one on the right rejoicing and the other on the left suffering. He heard the words: “I am sending you to the people on the left side to bring joy to my people, and it shall be called Fountain of Joy Ministries.” This divine instruction led to the establishment of the Fountain of Joy and Comfort Foundation in October 2011, a non-profit organization dedicated to “bringing joy to humanity.”
As Founder and President, Mr. Odili has led the foundation to deliver impactful interventions across health, education, and community development. The foundation has:
- Distributed over 16,000 free prescription eyeglasses
- Sponsored more than 1,000 eye surgeries for underserved individuals
- Delivered antenatal care to hundreds of indigent mothers
- Built and equipped state-of-the-art rural health centers
- Granted educational scholarships to children from low-income families
Its reach has extended beyond Nigeria, with operations in Ghana and South Africa, further reinforcing Mr. Odili’s international humanitarian footprint.
Entrepreneurial Excellence
A serial entrepreneur with vast talents and unwavering integrity, Mr. Odili is the Founder and Chairman of Paulo Group of Companies, a dynamic conglomerate that includes:
- Paulo Communications Ltd
- Paulo Homes Ltd
- Paulo Ventures Ltd
- Pauliham Hotels and Resorts
- Paulo Oil and Gas Ltd
Each of these companies is recognized for its commitment to quality service delivery, ethical leadership, and operational excellence. Under his stewardship, the group has earned a sterling reputation across multiple sectors, including real estate, hospitality, oil and gas, and communications.
In addition, Mr. Odili serves as Chairman and Co-Founder of:
- Houses for Africa Nigeria Ltd
- Jonah Capitals Ltd
- Houses for Africa Investment Ltd
He is also the Chairman of River Park Estate, one of the largest real estate development in Africa—a testament to his visionary leadership and bold approach to infrastructure transformation.
Education Advocate
Recognizing education as a fundamental pillar of nation-building, Mr. Odili founded Margaret Lawrence University, named in honor of his mother. Located in Galilee, Delta State, with a presence also in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, the university is designed to offer world-class education with a focus on academic excellence, innovation, and social responsibility. This initiative reaffirms Mr. Odili’s belief that “it is better to light a candle than to cause darkness.”
Healthcare
Driven by his deep commitment to transforming lives through healthcare, Mr. Odili Founded Margaret Lawrence University Teaching Hospital (MLUTH), a world class reference center for patients across the globe and most especially Nigeria. His vision for MLUTH serves as a beacon of hope and excellence for training medical leaders who will deliver compassionate world – class care. MLUTH is equipped with state-of-the-art medical equipment’s from companies like General Electric’s GE
Legacy and Recognition
Beyond business and philanthropy, Mr. Odili has personally funded the construction of churches, mosques, hospitals, and schools across Nigeria, reflecting his inclusive approach to development and his deeply held values of faith, compassion, and unity.
He lives by two sacred mantras that have shaped his life and leadership:
- “The gift of a man makes way for him.”
- “It is better to light a candle than to cause darkness.”
In recognition of his outstanding contributions to national development, economic growth, and humanitarian service, Mr. Odili has received numerous prestigious national and international awards.
Today, Mr. Paul Ufogebunem Odili remains a beacon of hope, a model of ethical leadership, and a relentless force for good whose work continues to transform lives across Africa and beyond.