Nigerian-born Kase Lawal is the founder of CAMAC, one of the largest black-owned businesses in the U.S., StandardMedia reports.

Recently awarded a number of oil exploration blocks in Kenya, Lawal is stamping his position and influence in the energy business globally, according to the report.

The U.S.-based CAMAC is involved in exploration, development and production of oil and gas and recently opened offices in Nairobi to extend its reach in Africa.

Born in Nigeria, Lawal left his home country to study in the U.S. where he started CAMAC in 1986. It has grown into a multi-billion-dollar company.

A well-known philanthropist, Lawal supports initiatives related to furthering economic stability and growth, academic enrichment, cultural arts appreciation, and an improved quality of life in all the communities where his companies operate.

The mogul has never forgotten his roots, StandardMedia reports. He believes education is the gateway to a better life and is keenly aware of the financial challenges facing Nigerian youth who want a higher education.

Lawal established the Lawal Scholarship in 2012 in Nigeria to reach out to financially distressed students pursuing studies in the oil and gas field.

The selection and nomination of students is made through various universities. To date, the Lawal Scholarship has awarded more than $6,000 to students at eight campuses.

Lawal’s social responsibility efforts go beyond Nigeria. In 2010 he partnered with the Jacob G. Zuma RDP Education Trust in a five-year agreement to educate talented disadvantaged young South Africans from rural areas.

Lawal, through CAMAC, promised to contribute nearly $100,000 each year for five years to educate young South Africans.