Offiong Ekanem Ejindu, widely known as Fifi Ejindu, is a Nigerian architect, businesswoman, philanthropist, and royal figure known for her influence in architecture, real estate, and entrepreneurship. She is also recognized for her distinctive style that blends modern design with African cultural identity.
Profile Summary
| Full name | Offiong Ekanem Ejindu |
| Date of birth | 1962 |
| Place of birth | Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria |
| Nationality | Nigerian |
| State of Origin | Akwa Ibom / Cross River royal family roots |
| Partner | Amaechi Ejindu |
| Children | One son |
| Occupations | Architect, businesswoman, philanthropist, entrepreneur, investor, business leader |
| Net worth | Around $850 million to $900 million |
Early Life and Education
Fifi Ejindu was born in Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria, in 1962. She comes from a royal family background and is often described as a princess from the Efik lineage.
She studied Architecture at Pratt Institute in New York, where she earned a Bachelor of Architecture degree in 1983. She is widely noted as the first Black African woman to graduate with a B.Arch. from the institution.
Career
Ejindu founded Starcrest in 1995, which later developed into Starcrest Group of Companies. Her business interests include architecture, real estate, construction, oil and gas, and investment.
She began her professional path after training and working abroad before returning to Nigeria to build her own firm. Over time, she expanded from architecture into broader business ventures, making her one of the notable female entrepreneurs in the country.
Her work is often described as combining design excellence with commercial leadership. She is also associated with promoting African aesthetics through architecture and related creative projects.
Personal Life
Fifi Ejindu is married to Amaechi Ejindu, who is known as a businessman and politician. Some reports say they have one son.
She keeps much of her private life away from public attention, but her royal heritage remains an important part of her identity.
Philanthropy
- She founded Hope Centres, an initiative created to help young people get off the streets and learn skills that can help them become self-sustaining.
- She founded the African Arts and Fashion Initiative (AAFI) in 2013 to promote African culture, arts, fashion, music, and antiques while also creating opportunities for young Africans.
- Through AAFI, she has supported youth empowerment through exhibitions, dialogues, fundraisers, and scholarship-related efforts.
- She has also been involved in investment and development initiatives aimed at encouraging economic growth and attracting support for Nigeria.
- She is described as supporting broader social causes such as poverty reduction, sustainable development, and economic empowerment.
Net Worth
Fifi Ejindu’s net worth is estimated to be around $850 million to $900 million, as of 2026.
Awards and Recognition
Fifi Ejindu has received several honors for her contributions to business, architecture, and the arts. She is also widely recognized for her pioneering achievement as the first Black African woman to graduate in architecture from Pratt Institute.
She has been praised in public and professional circles for her leadership, influence, and cultural impact. Her recognition also reflects her role in promoting African business presence beyond Nigeria.
