This week’s edition of Globacom-sponsored “African Voices” on CNN International will feature another prominent Nigerian entrepreneur in the United States, Chris Aire.
The internationally renowned jeweler who is popularly called the ‘Ice Man’ on account of his trading in diamonds and other precious stones will be the star guest on the 30-minute magazine programme which runs on Saturday at 4.30 p.m. and on Sunday at 4.30 a.m., 10.00 a.m. and 7.30 p.m. There will be further repeats of the programme at 3.30 a.m., 11.30 a.m. and 6.30 p.m. on Monday and at 6.30 a.m. on Tuesday.
The famous Nigerian entrepreneur has created a niche for himself in the risky jewelry business and, in the process, made a fortune for himself.
Globacom said in a statement in Lagos that Chris Aire’s business success not only in the United States but also on the global stage is an inspiration to millions of African youths across the globe. It noted that his astonishing story sits well with the philosophy of the programme to showcase successful African personalities who have excelled in different fields of endeavour.
Born and raised in Nigeria, the craftsman, whose full name is Christopher Airemiokhai Iluobe, shunned the life his father planned for him to pursue his dreams in America. Now, his magnificent creations have earned him the title, “King of Bling.”
The magnitude of the Ice Man’s success story can be seen from the list of world celebrities who are his clients. The jeweler and exotic watch maker, artist and designer, has as customers the biggest names in American music, film, fashion, entertainment and sports industry.
In music where he once tried his hands out in his early days in the United States, his friends and clients include superstars Madonna, Rihana, Snoop Dogg, Ice Cube, Jay Z, Nelly, Usher, Celine Dion and 50 Cents. In the film and TV world, his customers include Halle Berry, Jamie Foxx, Will Smith, Bruce Willis, Adrian Brody, Eva Longoria, Angelina Jolie, Oprah Winfrey and Clint Eastwood.
This week on African Voices, Chris Aire tells CNN’s Vladimir Duthiers the story of his rise to success and fame and how he is giving back to the less fortunate in his country.
Viewers will also find out how he coped with his early struggles in America and how he switched from acting to exotic jewelry-making and how he broke into the US jewelry market and earn the trust of world superstars.
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