ABOUT
Education, Career, Life, Passion, Hobbies. All there is to know about me!
Derin Phillips, popularly known as Dr Caise, is a multifaceted entrepreneur, artist and philanthropist with global influence and deep roots in Nigerian heritage. Born into a lineage of trailblazers, he is the son of Mr. and Mrs. Phillips and the grandson of the late Chief Antonio Deinde Fernandez, a renowned business magnate and diplomat. His mother, Chief (Mrs.) Teju Phillips, a former Lagos State commissioner, instilled in him a strong sense of responsibility, leadership, and service.
Derin’s academic journey laid a solid foundation for his dynamic career. He earned his Masters degree in Development Finance from University of Reading and Executive Education in Real Estate from Oxford University. After stints in music and finance, he followed in her footsteps and resumed as the Senior Special Adviser to the Governor on Lagos State Development and Property Corporation (LSDPC), in 2023. Derin works to address land constraints in a densely populated state like Lagos by prioritizing vertical development and streamlining legislation through policy advocacy and stakeholder engagement. He has strategically incentivised international investments in alignment with Lagos State’s vision of becoming a global financial hub through real estate tokenization.
Guided by the legacy of his grandfather and the values instilled by his parents, Derin is deeply committed to giving back. He supports initiatives focused on youth empowerment, education and community development, ensuring his contributions leave a lasting impact on society.
Derin’s personal life is enriched by his marriage to Xerona Duke, daughter of former Cross River State Governor Donald Duke. Together, they are the proud parents of three beautiful daughters. For Derin, family is both a source of inspiration and a grounding force, motivating him to create a world where his children—and future generations—can thrive.
Though deeply connected to his Nigerian roots, Derin’s vision transcends borders. He is a bridge between cultures, and he uses his platform to celebrate African heritage while embracing global perspectives.
Through his life’s work, Derin Phillips continues to honor his family’s legacy, inspire the next generation, and contribute to a brighter future for all