Audu Maikori is a Nigerian lawyer, entrepreneur, and social activist best known as the co-founder and former CEO of Chocolate City Group. Founded in 2005 alongside Paul Okeugo, Chocolate City grew into one of Africa’s leading entertainment conglomerates, launching the careers of major artists like M.I Abaga, Ice Prince. As CEO, Maikori expanded the company’s influence across music, media, and distribution before stepping down in 2015.
During his National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) tenure, Maikori co-founded the Guild of Artistes and Poets (GAP), a nonprofit supporting young creatives. His leadership earned him the British Council’s International Young Music Entrepreneur of the Year award in 2007, and Chocolate City won the African Awards for Entrepreneurship in 2011. A committed advocate for social justice, Maikori promotes entrepreneurship as a tool for economic empowerment.
Beyond business, he has served as a judge on entrepreneurial panels for Microsoft and the Chivas The Venture Competition. As a public speaker and creative industry expert, Maikori continues to inspire and mentor emerging entrepreneurs across Africa.
So Join Audu for NECLive 2025 on Friday, November 28 2025 at Landmark Events Centre. This year’s edition is themed “Powering Africa Through Creative Enterprise.” Register now: www.nec.ng
