Born in 1969 in Oleh, a town in Isoko South Local Government Area of Delta State, Nigeria, Engineer Daniel Omoyibo was the fourth child in his family. His mother, having had three sons already, hoped for a daughter during her fourth pregnancy. When Daniel was born, she was initially disappointed. However, his father, a spiritually inclined man, saw greatness in the newborn and named him “Elozino” meaning “Light has come to our family.“
Growing up in a modest household, Daniel experienced the challenges of limited resources. These early experiences instilled in him a deep sense of empathy and a desire to uplift others from similar circumstances.
Educational Pursuits and Engineering Career
Daniel pursued a career in engineering, a field that would later serve as the foundation for his entrepreneurial ventures. His technical expertise and innovative mindset allowed him to identify opportunities in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector, leading to the establishment of his own company.
Entrepreneurial Ventures: The Birth of Damotech
In the early 2000s, Daniel founded Damotech Nigeria Limited, an indigenous oil and gas firm. Under his leadership, Damotech grew into a conglomerate encompassing over eight companies across various sectors, including construction, hospitality, and technology. His business acumen not only created employment opportunities but also contributed significantly to Nigeria’s economy.
Philanthropy: A Heart for the Less Privileged
Daniel’s personal experiences with hardship fueled his commitment to philanthropy. He established the Damotech Foundation for the Less Privileged, operating under the motto “Your pain is our concern.” The foundation has made remarkable strides in various areas:
Education: Over 1,600 students have had their West African Examinations Council (WAEC) fees paid by the foundation. Additionally, more than 300 students have received scholarships for secondary and tertiary education.
Women Empowerment: The foundation has empowered numerous market women in Isoko North and South LGAs with grants of N100,000 each to support their businesses.
Youth Development: Recognizing the potential of the youth, Daniel sponsored over 100 young individuals to attend Ofagbe Technical College, providing them with vocational training and starter packs to begin their careers.
Healthcare and Housing: The foundation has covered medical expenses for the sick and constructed homes for widows and families in need, ensuring they have a safe place to live.
Personal Life: Triumphs and Tribulations
Daniel’s journey has been marked by both joy and sorrow. He often credits Nollywood movies for teaching him valuable life lessons during challenging times. These films emphasized patience, integrity, and the eventual triumph of good over evil. Tragically, his beloved wife passed away shortly after they began to experience financial stability. Despite this loss, Daniel remains grateful that she witnessed the fruits of their perseverance.
Contributions to Nollywood: A Patron of the Arts
Daniel’s admiration for Nollywood led him to become an active supporter of the Nigerian film industry. In 2019, he was appointed as the Patron of the Directors Guild of Nigeria (DGN), a testament to his dedication to the arts. During the conferment ceremony at his Dantinajo Gold Resort, he announced plans to build a Film Village in Oleh, spanning over three kilometers. This initiative aims to provide filmmakers with state-of-the-art facilities and picturesque locations for movie production.
Furthermore, Daniel has pledged financial support for aspiring filmmakers, offering them opportunities for training both locally and internationally. His goal is to elevate the quality of Nigerian films to compete on a global scale.
Dantinajo Gold Resort: A Hub for Culture and Hospitality
In a bid to boost tourism and provide a haven for relaxation, Daniel established the Dantinajo Gold Resort in Oleh. Commissioned by former President Olusegun Obasanjo, the 118-room luxury hotel has become a favorite destination for Nollywood stars and tourists alike. The resort not only offers top-tier amenities but also serves as a venue for cultural events and industry gatherings.
Recognition and Awards
Daniel’s philanthropic efforts have not gone unnoticed. In 2022, he was honored with the Independent Newspaper’s Philanthropist of the Year Award (Community Empowerment). He dedicated this award to the late Prophet T.B. Joshua, whom he regarded as a mentor.
Additionally, on his 55th birthday in 2024, Delta State Governor Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori commended Daniel for his contributions to the state’s development and his unwavering support for the less privileged.
Legacy and Impact
Engineer Daniel Elozino Omoyibo’s life story is one of resilience, compassion, and unwavering commitment to societal betterment. From humble beginnings, he has risen to become a beacon of hope for many, using his resources to uplift communities, support the arts, and inspire future generations. His endeavors continue to leave an indelible mark on Nigeria’s socio-economic and cultural landscape.
Note: This biography is based on publicly available information up to 2025. For the most current details about Engineer Daniel Omoyibo, please refer to official sources or recent publications.