Chief Engr. Dr. Darlington Friday Ugota is a preeminent figure in Nigeria’s engineering and business sectors, recognized for his exceptional ability to drive large-scale projects, foster economic growth, and lead impactful humanitarian initiatives. He is a distinguished engineer, innovative entrepreneur, and visionary philanthropist with a proven track record of driving sustainable development and youth empowerment in Nigeria. As the COREN-registered Chairman of the Esthington Group of Companies, a conglomerate with diverse interests and focus in energy, construction, and real estate. Through his professional and philanthropic work, he has been instrumental in creating over 500 jobs and empowering countless youths and vulnerable populations.

His leadership is distinguished by a profound commitment to sustainable job creation and community empowerment, a legacy that has earned him the prestigious United Nations Ambassador for Peace Award.

Career Objectives & Future Vision

Driven by a passion for innovation and a deep-seated commitment to national development, Chief Engr. Dr. Darlington Ugota’s future vision is centered on leveraging his expertise and platforms to create lasting societal impact. His primary objectives include:

• Pioneering Sustainable Infrastructure:To expand the Esthington Group’s footprint in developing green and smart infrastructure projects that address Nigeria’s pressing needs for housing, energy, and transportation, while adhering to global sustainability standards.
• Driving Economic Diversification:To lead strategic investments into emerging sectors that will create high-value jobs and contribute to the diversification of the Nigerian economy.
• Scaling Philanthropic Impact:To evolve the Esthington Empowerment Foundation into a global model for sustainable community development, reaching more beneficiaries through targeted programs in education, healthcare, and economic empowerment.
• Mentorship and Thought Leadership:To serve as a mentor and a voice for aspiring engineers and entrepreneurs, sharing insights and best practices to inspire the next generation of Nigerian leaders.

Professional Excellence and Entrepreneurial Acumen

Engr. Ugota’s professional journey is defined by a blend of technical expertise and strategic business acumen. Following his graduation from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, with a Second Class Honours (Upper Division) in Mechanical Engineering in 2014, he quickly rose to prominence.

Engr. Ugota’s career is a testament to his ambition and engineering prowess. After graduating he quickly transitioned from a dedicated engineer to a visionary entrepreneur.

• Engineering Leadership:His expertise spans across the entire project lifecycle, from civil engineering to complex project management. He has successfully delivered numerous infrastructure projects that have directly improved living standards and economic conditions across Nigeria. These projects, managed under his leadership, are celebrated for their quality, efficiency, and adherence to international standards.
• Founder and Chairman, Esthington Group of Companies: Ugota’s strategic vision led to the founding of this diverse conglomerate. Each subsidiary reflects a carefully chosen area of economic growth and societal need:
  • Esthington Energy Limited:At the forefront of Nigeria’s energy sector, providing solutions that power businesses and homes.
  • Esthington Properties / Double King Construction Limited:Actively involved in bridging Nigeria’s housing deficit by developing and managing residential and commercial real estate.
  • Viugo Oil and Gas Limited:A key player in the downstream sector, ensuring the supply and distribution of essential petroleum products.
  • Davi Foods Limited:Contributing to the food security and consumer goods market.
  • Esthington Football Club:A platform for nurturing youth talent and promoting sports excellence.
  • Esthington Empowerment Foundation.
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• Economic Impact and Job Creation:A staunch advocate for local content development, he has created over 500 direct and indirect jobs through his enterprises. This commitment to employment generation has made a significant contribution to alleviating poverty and empowering hundreds of families across the nation.
• Job Creation and Economic Impact:Through his enterprises, he has created and sustained over 500 employment opportunities for engineers, administrative staff, and various other professionals, significantly contributing to the local and national economy.
• Engineering and Project Management:He has led and managed numerous large-scale infrastructure projects across Nigeria, specializing in civil engineering and construction. His projects are recognized for their quality, timely completion, and positive community impact.

Humanitarian Leadership: Chairman of the Esthington Empowerment Foundation

Beyond his corporate success, Chief Engr. Dr. Darlington Ugota is widely celebrated as a leading philanthropist and the Chairman of the Esthington Empowerment Foundation, which has established itself as one of the most impactful humanitarian organizations in Ebonyi State and Nigeria in general.   His leadership in this capacity is not just administrative but deeply personal, driven by a philosophy of giving back.

• Strategic Philanthropy:As Chairman, he personally directs the Foundation’s initiatives, ensuring they are sustainable and create lasting change. The Foundation’s work is a testament to its mission to transform lives through strategic intervention.
• Empowering the Next Generation:The Foundation’s educational scholarships have enabled over 100 youths to pursue their academic and professional dreams, many of whom have been sponsored for international studies. This focus on education is his way of building human capacity and equipping young Nigerians for the global stage.
• Comprehensive Social Support:The Foundation’s reach is broad and responsive, encompassing:
  • Poverty Alleviation:Providing financial and material support to widows, orphans, and other marginalized groups, ensuring they have the means to live with dignity.
  • Healthcare Interventions:Sponsoring medical outreaches, providing free drugs, and funding treatments for the less privileged.
  • Community Development:Investing in local infrastructure and providing essential relief materials during times of crisis.

His work with the Foundation has made him a beacon of hope, demonstrating how private enterprise can be a powerful force for social good.

Education, Honors, and Legacy

• Education:His academic journey began with early brilliance, earning him the position of class monitor and head boy in primary and secondary school, respectively. This laid the groundwork for his success at the university level and culminated in an honorary Doctorate Degree (Honoris Causa) from the American European University, Lome, Togo.
• Awards & Chieftaincy Title:His societal contributions have been widely recognized. He was named a United Nations Ambassador for Peace in 2022 and, in 2024, was conferred with the revered title of Aka Jimba 1 of Ezza Nation, a testament to the profound respect he commands within his community.
• Affiliations:He is a proud member of the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) and the Real Estate Developers’ Association of Nigeria (REDAN), affiliations that underscore his professional standing and commitment to industry best practices.

Personal Life

Chief Engr. Dr. Darlington Ugota in his personal life is a dedicated family man, married to Mrs. Esther Darlington Ugota. They are blessed with three children. His life story, from a humble family to a revered national figure, serves as a powerful inspiration, exemplifying the values of hard work, integrity, and compassion. He is committed to instilling these values of integrity, hard work, and responsibility in his family, reflecting the principles that have guided his own successful journey.

Education and Professional Development

• Doctorate Degree (Honoris Causa):American European University, Lome, Togo (2021)
• Bachelor of Engineering (B.Eng.), Mechanical Engineering:University of Nigeria, Nsukka (2009-2014)
• Senior School Certificate (SSCE):Seiro International College (2003-2009)
• First School Leaving Certificate:Community Primary School, Umunwagu Idembia (1997-2003)

Awards, Honorus, and Affiliations

• Chieftaincy Title:Aka Jimba 1 of Ezza Nation (2024), conferred in recognition of his significant contributions to his community and humanity in general.
• United Nations Ambassador for Peace Award:United Nation’s Positive Livelihood Award Centre (UN-POLAC) (2022).
• Registered Engineer, COREN (Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria).
• Member, Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE).
• Member, Real Estate Developers’ Association of Nigeria (REDAN).