The corporate landscape in Nigeria is changing, with powerful women at the forefront, determined to redefine leadership through insight, cou...
The corporate landscape in Nigeria is changing, with powerful women at the forefront, determined to redefine leadership through insight, courage, and strict accuracy. From shiny boardrooms to the lively halls of multi-billion-dollar companies, these pioneering female chief executives are forging innovative routes, reshaping businesses, and promoting long-term development throughout various sectors.Faith Ajayisheds light on the paths of these women, transforming the future of Nigerian business
AsA certified accountant who brings a strategic approach, Mayowa Olaniyan has moved through the fields of finance, technology, and board governance to become the first woman to hold the position of Group Managing Director at Chams HoldCo Plc, a publicly traded company that operates at the junction of identity services, payment systems, and data solutions.
Born from the fields of accounting and corporate finance, Olaniyan has established trust through rigorous professional certifications and significant experience in financial leadership positions that have challenged both her technical expertise and business insight.
Her professional journey started in January 1994 as an audit intern, during which she enhanced her accounting abilities over the crucial 12 months. Subsequently, she became part of SCOA Nigeria Plc, where she spent more than 11 years progressing consistently within the company. Following her departure from SCOA, she transitioned to Tranter International Ltd, serving as Group Finance and Administration Manager for approximately two years, during which she managed financial strategy and administrative processes.
Olaniyan began her career at Chams Plc in 2008 via one of its affiliated companies, taking on the role of Assistant General Manager for Corporate Services. By 2011, she was promoted to Group Head of Internal Audit and Risk Management, a post she maintained until 2012. She subsequently held various other senior positions within the organization prior to being named Group Managing Director in 2022.
Her selection was both meaningful and calculated: meaningful as she became the first female to head the group, and calculated because Chams required a leader proficient in both figures and networks to shift from a traditional identity business to a strong payments and fintech entity.
In her first year, Chams achieved triple-digit growth in both revenue and profit, with its stock price on the Nigerian Exchange rising from approximately N0.22 to around N2.48. By December 2024, the company's board marked her two-year leadership, noting significant achievements such as increased earnings per share, greater investor trust, enhanced performance from subsidiaries, and a revitalized focus on payment infrastructure.
A statement on the Chams' official website stated, "Her time in charge has been truly outstanding, with the company reaching new heights through its various branches and solidifying its reputation as a pioneer in Nigeria's tech and financial services industries."
One of her major accomplishments was obtaining a Payments Service Holding Company license from the Central Bank of Nigeria, a crucial regulatory success that supports Chams' payments-focused evolution.
Olaniyan is a member of both the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria and the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants. She earned a BSc and a postgraduate qualification in Applied Accounting from Oxford Brookes University, along with an MBA in Strategy from Edinburgh Business School, part of Heriot-Watt University in the UK. She has also studied at Nanyang Technological University in Singapore; Lagos Business School; and Stellenbosch Business School in South Africa.
Catherine Nwosu, the innovative leader of Africa Prudential, was born and brought up in Enugu State. She finished her high school studies at Community Girls Secondary School, Isienu-Nsukka, receiving her West African Senior School Certificate in 1986. She subsequently earned a Higher National Diploma in Banking and Finance with Second Class Upper distinction from the Institute of Management and Technology, Enugu; an MBA from Ambrose Alli University, Edo State; and a BSc in Management from the University of Education, Winneba, Ghana.
Nwosu started her professional journey in 1989 with United Bank for Africa Plc, working in different operational and client-related positions at Enugu branches for almost ten years. In 1998, she transitioned to UBA Registrars Limited, where she served as Head of Share Registration until September 2007.
She began her tenure at Africa Prudential Plc soon after, initially serving as Chief Compliance Officer from 2007 to 2009, and then as Chief Operating Officer from 2010 to 2022, during which she enhanced registrar services and led the company through phases of technological and regulatory evolution. On March 1, 2024, she made history by becoming the first woman to hold the positions of Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer at Africa Prudential Plc.
Prior to her registrar-centric positions, Nwosu held the role of Head of Stakeholder Engagement at BUA Group, where she developed her expertise in corporate collaborations and investor relations, skills that now influence her leadership in boardrooms and market interactions.
In addition to her executive duties, Nwosu holds a significant position within the capital markets landscape. She is the 2nd Vice President of the Institute of Capital Market Registrars, where she participates in discussions on policies and industry benchmarks. She has also completed the Senior Management Programme at Lagos Business School and is recognized as a Fellow of the Institute of Capital Market Registrars, as well as an Associate Member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria.
Her influence goes beyond the corporate world. Nwosu has worked with the International Red Cross in Nigeria, assisting with fundraising and promoting disaster readiness. She has also been honored with the Woman of Merit Gold Award, acknowledging her efforts in share-registration systems within Nigeria.
Under her guidance, Africa Prudential has demonstrated both consistency and transformation: consistency in its solid registrar base, and transformation through its efforts to modernize digital capital market services. She has spearheaded significant projects, such as the introduction of a cutting-edge headquarters in Lagos and the upcoming release of a mobile application to improve customer access. She continues to be a passionate supporter of cybersecurity and AI implementation in financial markets, participating in numerous prominent industry discussions.
A message on the company's website featured former Chairman Eniola Fadyomi, who stated, "With Catherine leading the way, there is no doubt about the future of the business. Africa Prudential's heritage and dedication to innovation and high-quality service are clearly recognized by Catherine, a skilled professional and a supporter of the company."
Adenike Aboderin didn't just reach the pinnacle of Skyway Aviation Handling Company; she secured her position through years of financial knowledge, community involvement, and strong will.
On February 1, 2024, she assumed the role of the first woman to serve as Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of SAHCO Plc.
She earned a Bachelor's degree in Finance and a Master's in Banking and Finance from the University of Lagos. Dedicated to ongoing education, she has finished executive training in Global Strategic Management at Harvard Business School, the Advanced Management Programme at Lagos Business School, and is currently studying for a Master's in Sustainable Development at the University of Sussex, UK.
Aboderin's professional journey includes roles in private banking and high-level public administration. She spent over two decades in managerial positions at Citibank Nigeria, Skye Bank (now known as Polaris Bank), Premium Securities Limited, and Commerce Bank. Throughout this time, she oversaw teams that catered to clients in various fields such as commodities, marine, oil and gas, transportation, steel, and manufacturing, highlighting her adaptability and expertise in handling intricate industries.
Her move into public service began when she worked as a Special Adviser for Trade and Investments in Ogun State, managing the Economic Planning Department between 2011 and 2014. In 2015, she led the Sub-Committee on Social Issues within the Presidential Transition Committee, showcasing her dedication to national progress and equitable growth.
Prior to her role at SAHCO, Aboderin served as the Director of Finance and Accounts for the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, overseeing budgeting, financial operations, credit management, and leading the accounts department. Her extensive background in both government and corporate environments made her a suitable candidate to take over as CEO following Basil Agboarumi's departure.
Since taking charge at SAHCO, the company has enhanced safety and service protocols, earning the British Airways Punctuality Award in 2024 for outstanding ground-handling achievements.
Aboderin is deeply committed to industrial growth, employment generation, and societal progress—values she integrates into her role as a corporate leader. As stated on her profile in SAHCO's management section, she guides young individuals, loves traveling, and enjoys reading, showcasing the life of a leader who combines ambitious strategy with approachable humanity.
Oyeyimika Adeboye, a certified accountant who transitioned into a business executive, made history in April 2019 by becoming the first woman to serve as Managing Director of Cadbury Nigeria Plc, a firm that had been in operation for over five decades without a female leader.
Coming from a background of industry and business, she is the daughter of the late Adeola Odutola, a renowned industrialist and trailblazer in Nigerian manufacturing. She frequently acknowledges her early life for fostering discipline, a solid work ethic, and a steadfast dedication to learning.
Adeboye earned a Bachelor of Science in Economics and Social Studies from University College Cardiff, Wales, in 1986. She has also completed various management courses at the Institute of Management Development in Lausanne, Switzerland.
She started her professional journey in the UK as an accountant and articled clerk with Midgley Snelling & Co., where she obtained her qualification as a chartered accountant. Later, she moved to the Nigerian branch of Arthur Andersen & Co., a tax and accounting firm.
In 1994, she took on the role of Finance Director and Chief Financial Officer at the Nigerian Bottling Company, remaining in that position for more than ten years. In November 2008, she joined Cadbury West Africa as the Finance and Strategy Director for the region and later became a member of the board of Cadbury Ghana Ltd.
Her selection as Managing Director on April 1, 2019, and her later position as Cluster Director, Mondelēz International West Africa, enhanced her regional impact.
Under her guidance, Cadbury has focused on operational excellence and social impact, especially in dealing with the difficulties of an unstable economy while maintaining product quality and expanding local manufacturing. She supports youth development through programs like the Bournvita initiative and the Breathe Academy, a educational platform for young music creators.
Adeboye's impact goes well beyond corporate settings. She is a member of the Board of Trustees at the Timothy Adeola Odutola Foundation, supports programs focused on youth and education, and is part of the Board of the Food & Beverage Recycling Alliance. She holds the status of Fellow with the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England & Wales and is a Member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria.
Rooted in belief, family, and dedication, she often attributes her connection with the divine and the encouragement from her spouse and kids to keeping her life in harmony and clarity.
WhenUzoamaka Oshogwe took on the position of Managing Director and CEO of Transcorp Hotels Plc in January 2025, marking a new era for one of Nigeria's most renowned hospitality companies, supported by over 30 years of diverse industry expertise.
Oshogwe obtained a BSc in Chemistry from Ambrose Alli University, located in Edo State, and an MSc in Information Systems Design from the University of Westminster in London. She finished the Advanced Management Programme at Lagos Business School, participated in the Chief Executive Programme at IESE Business School in Spain, and has a professional certificate in Real Estate Management from Harvard Business School.
Her professional credentials consist of being a Fellow of the Institute of Management Consultants, a civil and commercial mediator accredited by RICS, a Fellow of the Institute of Credit Administration, and a member of the Institute of Directors.
Oshogwe's professional journey started in the U.K., where she held roles such as Programmer, Business Analyst, and Project Manager within the Information Systems Department at J. Sainsbury Plc. Subsequently, she moved to Accenture UK, taking on the position of IT Applications Manager.
After coming back to Nigeria, she entered the banking industry, taking on leadership positions at United Bank for Africa and later becoming Managing Director of UBA Properties. This phase enhanced her knowledge in investment, real estate, and corporate strategy.
Her most extended leadership position before entering the hospitality sector was at Afriland Properties Ltd, where she became CEO. During her tenure, the company increased its real estate development portfolio, completing notable residential and commercial projects. Her achievements solidified her image as a dynamic leader skilled in managing intricate, high-investment projects.
Following Dupe Olusola, who left in 2024, Oshogwe took charge at Transcorp Hotels Plc during a critical period. In her new position, she is responsible for the renowned Transcorp Hilton Abuja and the group's digital hospitality platform, integrating her strategic perspective with the company's overall expansion plan.
In a statement released on the company's website, Board Chairman Emmanuel Nnorom voiced complete confidence in her ability to "generate value and achieve excellence." Since taking up her position, Oshogwe has guided Transcorp Hotels toward significant international acclaim. In October 2025, the hotel and Oshogwe herself received three prestigious awards at the Seven Star Luxury Awards in Portugal: Transcorp Hilton Abuja was recognized as Best Luxury Business Hotel, its event venue won Best Luxury Event and Conference Centre, and Oshogwe was honored with the title of Best CEO of the Year.
OwenOmogiafo is not just shattering barriers; she is reshaping the concept of leading a Nigerian business empire with determination and grace. She was born on May 28, 1980, in Benin City, Edo State, and has spent more than 20 years advancing from a human-performance consultant to President and Group CEO of Transcorp Group, making her the first woman and one of the youngest leaders in the company's history.
Her educational background is based on strategy and managing people. She earned a B.Sc. in Sociology and Anthropology from the University of Benin and a Master’s in Human Resource Management from the London School of Economics. She also took executive courses at Lagos Business School and IESE Business School, Spain. Her professional qualifications consist of membership with the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (UK) and a certification in Change Management from the Prosci Institute, USA.
Omogiafo's initial professional journey started in the banking sector as a Relationship Manager at Bond Bank, later moving to Accenture, where she focused on Organisational Development and Change Management. She subsequently became an HR Advisor to the GMD/CEO at United Bank for Africa, further enhancing her strategic human resources skills.
Her knowledge in organizational structure and talent growth led her to Heirs Holdings as Director of Resources, where she managed the allocation of resources and the design of the organization. At the Tony Elumelu Foundation, she expanded its $100 million entrepreneurship initiative, supporting and financing 10,000 African entrepreneurs over ten years.
In July 2018, she became an Executive Director in Corporate Services at Transcorp Plc, overseeing operational excellence throughout the company. Subsequently, she held the position of MD/CEO at Transcorp Hotels before being named President and Group CEO of Transcorp Plc on 25 March 2020. Around the age of 39, she made history as Transcorp's first female CEO and the youngest leader of a listed conglomerate on the Nigerian Exchange.
With her guidance, Transcorp has achieved substantial financial expansion. Omogiafo individually owns a 0.23% share in Transcorp Power, which is estimated to be worth approximately US$4 million. Her impact spans the group's hospitality, energy, and power sectors.
Recognized globally for her strong leadership, she has been listed among Africa's Top 100 Female CEOs and one of the 50 Most Motivating Nigerian Women by BusinessDay in 2019. In 2023, she was awarded the national title of Officer of the Order of the Niger in recognition of her efforts towards national growth.
Omogiafo is a member of the boards at Transcorp Power, Transcorp Hotels, and Avon Healthcare, and also serves as a trustee for the Association of Power Generation Companies. Her approach to leadership focuses on empowerment, responsibility, and change. She frequently speaks about her background, noting that genuine leadership is "preparation meeting opportunity."
In In 2021, Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe broke barriers by becoming the first woman to hold the position of MD/CEO at Fidelity Bank Plc, one of Nigeria's most rapidly expanding commercial banks. She was born on July 28, 1964, in Lagos, and was raised in a family that valued learning and outstanding achievement. She studied at the Federal Government Girls’ College in Owerri, earned her LL.B from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, and later obtained a Master of Laws from King’s College London. Additionally, she has finished various executive education courses.
She has an Honorary Doctorate in Business Administration from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, and received the title of Officer of the Order of the Niger in 2023.
Her career in banking has lasted over 30 years. She started in 1990 as a Legal Officer at the now-defunct African Continental Bank, and later worked at First African Trust Bank as a Treasury Officer. She then developed a wide range of experience across Zenith Bank and Standard Chartered, acquiring knowledge in investment banking, treasury operations, corporate banking, and retail banking.
In 2011, she took on the position of Executive Director at Enterprise Bank, responsible for Lagos and the South-West region, where she was instrumental in reorganizing the bank and launching its SME department.
She joined Fidelity Bank in 2015 as Executive Director responsible for the Lagos and South-West Directorate, turning it into one of the bank's most significant revenue generators. On 1 January 2021, she took on the role of MD/CEO.
Under her guidance, Fidelity Bank achieved a 35.7% increase in Profit Before Tax during the initial years of her leadership. Her dedication to empowering women resulted in the establishment of HerFidelity, a key initiative providing women with access to funding, business support, health programs, and training opportunities.
She has promoted digital transformation using platforms like PayGate Plus and Fidelity International Trade, along with Creative Connect. During a women's roundtable in 2025, she encouraged female professionals to adopt continuous learning, teamwork, and bravery.
Her many accolades include Banker of the Year 2022 (Leadership Annual Conference), Best Banking CEO Nigeria 2023 (Global Banking & Finance Awards), Top 25 CEOs in Nigeria 2023 (BusinessDay), and Banker of the Year 2022 (Champion Newspapers Awards).
She is married to Ken Onyeali-Ikpe, a marketing consultant who holds a PhD, and the two manage their career responsibilities along with family commitments. Although she holds a prominent position, she stays humble, always highlighting the values of honesty, modesty, and the significance of guiding women and young professionals.
OnOn 1 June 2024, Adaora Umeoji made history by becoming the first woman to serve as Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Zenith Bank. This was a significant achievement for the bank. Umeoji was born on 8 February 1974. She earned a B.Sc. in Sociology from the University of Jos, then obtained a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, and ultimately graduated with a first-class Law degree from Baze University in Abuja.
She obtained a Master of Laws from the University of Salford, UK, an MBA from the University of Calabar, and a Doctorate in Business Administration from Apollos University, USA, with her studies centered on "inspirational leadership," a concept that shapes her professional perspective.
Umeoji began her career at Zenith Bank in 1998 and progressively advanced within the organization. By October 2012, she was appointed to the board, highlighting her impressive leadership journey. Throughout her tenure, she has occupied positions such as Head of Marketing, Deputy Zonal Head, and Executive Director for the Abuja and Middle-Belt Zones, acquiring extensive operational experience.
In October 2016, she took on the position of Deputy Managing Director, which she maintained until her groundbreaking selection as CEO in 2024. Having accumulated almost 30 years in the banking sector, with 26 of those years spent at Zenith, she also serves as chairperson of Zenith Nominees Ltd and is a member of the board of Zenith Bank Ghana.
In addition to her work in banking, Umeoji represents service and charitable efforts. In 2022, she was awarded the Officer of the Order of the Niger in recognition of her efforts towards national growth.
She works as a Peace Promoter for the United Nations and established the Pink Breath Cancer Care Foundation along with the Adorable Foundation, which focuses on providing educational opportunities for disadvantaged children, particularly girls.
Her commitment to ethical banking is highlighted through her involvement with the Catholic Bankers Association of Nigeria. She has received recognition from the Catholic Church, being named a Lady of the Order of Knights of St. John International and a Papal Knight of the Order of St. Sylvester, awarded by Pope Francis.
Umeoji's leadership is defined by modesty, structure, and ethical integrity. Her strong educational foundation, international executive development, and dedication to helping others demonstrate a leader who perceives leadership not just as power but as a duty.
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