Hon. Francis Barthlomew Chima, widely known as OmoBarca, has been honoured with the prestigious Hero of Our Time Award by The Mirror Newspaper in recognition of his remarkable contributions to business, philanthropy, and grassroots development.
The award ceremony, held on April 23, 2023, at the LCCI Conference and Exhibition Centre in Alausa, Ikeja, Lagos, brought together an array of distinguished personalities from across Nigeria’s political, traditional, religious, and professional spheres. The event celebrated individuals whose work has made significant impact in their respective fields and in society at large.
OmoBarca stood out among the honourees as a symbol of resilience, self-made success, and unwavering commitment to uplifting others. His recognition reflects not only his entrepreneurial achievements but also his sustained humanitarian efforts, particularly among underserved communities.
Among other notable recipients of the award were the Governor of Adamawa State, Ahmadu Fintiri; Oba Mudashiru Salaudeen Odejobi, the Alagodo of Agodo Kingdom in Alimosho Local Government Area of Lagos State; Rev. Dr. Matthew Adenipekun Falade, a distinguished cleric and Methodist Bishop of Idanre Diocese in Ondo State; Assistant Inspector-General of Police Simeon U. Akpanudom; renowned fashion icon Zizi Cardow; and Miss Victoria Ibezim-Ohaeri, a globally recognised human rights advocate and founder of MSpaces for Change, West Africa.
The ceremony underscored the importance of recognizing excellence and inspiring a culture of service, leadership, and national development.
Hon. Francis Barthlomew Chima’s journey to national recognition is rooted in a compelling story of perseverance. Born on August 18, 1983, into the family of Late Chief and Mrs. Francis Nkemodum Atumah of Okwu Community in Olokoro, Umuahia South Local Government Area of Abia State, his early life was shaped by modest circumstances.
Though originally from Abia State, he was born and raised in Ajegunle, Ajeromi-Ifelodun Local Government Area of Lagos State—an environment known for its vibrancy but also its socio-economic challenges. Growing up in this setting instilled in him a strong survival instinct and a deep understanding of grassroots realities.
His educational journey began at Ire-Akari Nursery and Primary School in Ajegunle, followed by Newland Secondary School, Tolu Complex, Lagos, where he obtained his West African Senior School Certificate in 2003.
Despite demonstrating academic promise, financial constraints prevented him from pursuing tertiary education after successfully sitting for the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board examination.
Life presented significant challenges at a young age. As a teenager, Chima engaged in street hawking, selling sachet water and snacks to support his family. The loss of his mother at the age of 14 further deepened his struggles but also strengthened his resolve to succeed.
Determined to rise above his circumstances, he took on various menial jobs, including working as a factory employee at OAK Natural Waters in the Amuwo-Odofin Industrial Area. His diligence quickly earned him recognition and a salary increase. Alongside this, he ventured into small-scale businesses such as selling recharge cards and food items, displaying early signs of entrepreneurial ingenuity.
A turning point in his life came in 2007 when his uncle, Mr. Nwachukwu Osondu, introduced him to the clearing and forwarding business. Under mentorship, Chima quickly mastered the trade, demonstrating exceptional discipline and business acumen.
This experience laid the foundation for what would later become a thriving enterprise. Today, he is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of CHIMFRANCEE Ventures, a licensed customs-certified freight forwarding and logistics company.
With over 15 years of experience, CHIMFRANCEE Ventures has grown into a reputable brand within Nigeria’s logistics sector, providing services in port handling, freight forwarding, transportation, and maritime consultancy. The company serves corporate organizations, government agencies, and private clients across Nigeria and beyond.
Beyond logistics, OmoBarca has diversified his investments into multiple sectors and has undertaken several international professional courses in freight forwarding, entrepreneurship, and leadership.
Despite his success, Hon. Chima has remained deeply committed to giving back to society. His philanthropic efforts are largely focused on Ajegunle and surrounding communities, where he continues to make meaningful interventions.
His initiatives include providing financial support to struggling families to establish small businesses, awarding scholarships to underprivileged children, creating employment opportunities for youths, and offering food and shelter to vulnerable individuals.
In a remarkable display of interfaith support, he has sponsored over 30 Muslims for the Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca and more than 40 Christians on pilgrimage to Jerusalem, reflecting his inclusive approach to humanitarian service.
Receiving the Hero of Our Time Award marks a significant milestone in OmoBarca’s journey. It serves as a testament to his unwavering commitment to excellence, service, and community development.
Supporters and well-wishers who accompanied him to the ceremony included Elder Charles Ejimadu, Princess Brenda Ifeoma Ngoladi (MD of DailyBlastNG), Hon. Uchechukwu Esomonu, Hon. Maduabum Obinna Francis, and CSO Iyeli Odoko—individuals who have been part of his support system and shared in celebrating the honour.
For many observers, Hon. Francis Barthlomew Chima’s story is not just one of personal success but a powerful narrative of hope. From the streets of Ajegunle to the stage of national recognition, his journey exemplifies how determination, faith, and hard work can transform adversity into opportunity.
As he continues to expand his business empire and deepen his philanthropic footprint, OmoBarca remains a beacon of inspiration to young Nigerians, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds.
His guiding principle, “God First,” continues to define his path—one marked by resilience, compassion, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.
