Thursday, October 29, 2026

“An Uber driver gave me a $1m business idea that changed my life” – Boat Naija CEO

“An Uber driver gave me a $1m business idea that changed my life” – Boat Naija CEO

Chiazor Daniel, the chief executive officer of Boat Naija, has revealed how an idea pitched to him by an Uber driver grew into a business reportedly worth ₦5 billion.

Speaking about the company’s beginnings, Daniel said his business partner, Alex Sonora, had conceived the idea of starting a boat rental business after observing the growing demand for boat cruises among people living in Lekki, Lagos.

According to Daniel, Sonora had tried unsuccessfully for about four years to sell the idea before they eventually met while he was working as an artiste manager.

Daniel explained that he was taking Nollywood actress Ifu Ennada to an interview when Sonora, who was driving them, shared his business idea and suggested they start a boat rental company.

He admitted that he initially found it surprising that an Uber driver was presenting him with what he described as a million-dollar business idea. However, he said he had previously prayed for a business idea that would change his life, and after further reflection, he believed Sonora’s proposal was the opportunity he had been waiting for.

The pair launched the business in 2019 with an initial capital of ₦500,000, according to Daniel. What began as a boat rental service later expanded beyond boat cruises as they identified other opportunities in the leisure and hospitality sector.

Daniel confirmed that he and Sonora remain business partners, describing their collaboration as an important part of the company’s growth.

He also used the experience to encourage people not to dismiss ideas based on the status or occupation of the person presenting them, noting that a valuable business opportunity can come from anyone.

Daniel’s account highlights how a conversation during an ordinary Uber ride led to a business partnership that has grown into a major venture.


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