Meet Kunle Soname—The Ijebu/Remo Mogul Behind ValueJet Airline
Lagos, Nigeria – August 2025
From the football pitch to the skies, Kunle Soname has built an empire that stretches across sports, betting, aviation, and real estate, cementing his status as one of Nigeria’s most dynamic businessmen. With an estimated net worth ranging between $100 million and $500 million, Soname is not only a household name in business circles but also a prominent figure in politics and community development.
The Man Behind the Brand
A proud son of Ijebu/Remo in Ogun State, Kunle Soname’s entrepreneurial journey has been marked by bold investments and strategic diversification. He is widely recognized for his ability to spot high-potential ventures and transform them into thriving enterprises.
In the aviation industry, his flagship project is ValueJet Airline, a rising player in Nigeria’s domestic flight network. While Soname serves as the airline’s founder and principal investor, day-to-day operations are handled by Captain Omololu Majekodunmi, the company’s Chief Executive Officer.
ValueJet’s Journey So Far
Although founded in 2018, ValueJet officially launched commercial operations on October 10, 2022. Since then, the airline has steadily expanded its route network, currently offering scheduled flights to Abuja, Port Harcourt, Asaba, and Jos.
Positioning itself as a modern, customer-focused carrier, ValueJet has aimed to carve a niche in Nigeria’s competitive aviation sector by offering affordable fares, punctual services, and a focus on passenger comfort.
Sports & Betting Empire
Outside aviation, Soname’s business footprint is equally impressive. He is the Chairman of Bet9ja, Nigeria’s leading sports betting platform, which has become a dominant force in the country’s gaming and entertainment industry.
His passion for sports extends to football ownership. Soname is the President of Remo Stars Football Club, a Nigerian Premier League team based in Ikenne, Ogun State, known for nurturing young talents and maintaining a competitive presence in national tournaments.
Beyond Nigerian borders, Soname also owns C.D. Feirense, a Portuguese football club, making him one of the few African entrepreneurs with direct investment in European football.
A Politician-Turned-Business Titan
Before his business empire reached national prominence, Soname was also active in politics. He once served as the Chairman of Ikosi-Isheri Local Council Development Area (LCDA) in Lagos State, where he gained a reputation for grassroots leadership and community-driven initiatives.
Over the years, he has successfully blended political experience with business acumen, using both to expand his network and create impactful ventures.
Looking Ahead
With ValueJet steadily building its presence in Nigeria’s skies, Bet9ja continuing its dominance in the gaming sector, and his sports clubs gaining international recognition, Kunle Soname shows no signs of slowing down.
For the Ijebu/Remo businessman, the goal is clear: to keep expanding his influence across industries while building institutions that stand the test of time.
