A Nigerian national, Joseph James Nantomah, widely known online as “The Black Mentor,” has been sentenced to 48 months in federal prison in the United States for running an investment fraud scheme that cost investors more than $2.7 million.

Nantomah, 49, entered the U.S. on a visitor’s visa in 2016 and subsequently cultivated a fake online persona claiming to be a multimillion-dollar real estate entrepreneur. Operating under this guise, he hosted “Wealth Flow” conferences and classes where he marketed himself as an expert on achieving the American Dream.

Between May 2020 and December 2024, Nantomah defrauded at least 39 victims primarily working-class Nigerian immigrants and members of his church by promising substantial returns on fictitious real estate ventures. Prosecutors noted that he exploited shared cultural backgrounds and community trust to execute the multi-year scheme.

Rather than investing the funds, Nantomah used the capital to bankroll a lavish lifestyle that included private jet charters, luxury vehicles, high-end jewelry, and a yacht. Court records also revealed he used victim funds to purchase honorary doctorate degrees for himself and his wife, and to pay celebrities to appear at his events.

U.S. District Judge Lynn Adelman emphasized the severe, long-term impact the crimes had on the victims during sentencing. In addition to the four-year prison term, Nantomah was ordered to pay $2,762,798.37 in restitution and faces three years of supervised release.

Law enforcement officials underscored that the case highlights the destructive nature of scams built on personal trust and community betrayal.