My goal is to foster a culture of innovation and excellence in Frutta JUICE – Bolanle Solebo, Sales and Marketing Director, Frutta Juice and Services

With over 20 years’ experience in driving business growth, Bolanle Solebo, the current Director of Sales and Marketing for Frutta Juice and Services has always been a positive force when it comes to effecting game – changing scenarios in the FMCG sector in Nigeria. A Business Administration graduate of the University of Lagos, she is a transformational and results – oriented leader that is passionate about strategic decision – making, team coaching and change leadership.

Solebo who worked for several years at Coca Cola HBC Nigeria and crossed over to Frutta Juice in 2023 as Head of Key Account and Modern Trade disclosed that her career had been shaped largely by several influential mentors and senior leaders at Coca Cola. One memorable experience at the company, she recalls, was leading a turnaround project where her team revitalized a lagging market segment under tight deadlines. According to her: “The collective resilience and innovative spirit we displayed were truly inspiring”

Another milestone for her was stepping into leadership role at Frutta Juice and Services, a transition she says marked the culmination of years of hard work.

Speaking about their products, she revealed that they are a diverse range of premium fruit juices and non- alcoholic beverages crafted with high quality ingredients. “Our products align with the growing health and wellness trend in Nigeria and West Africa,” she hinted. “They are well received, earning strong customer trust and steadily increasing market share due to their exceptional taste, quality and nutritional value”.

On the challenges experienced in the sales and marketing of the products, she listed these as the intense competition in the FMCG market, shifting consumer preferences and logistical complexities. To overcome them however, she says: “ We leverage data – driven insights and innovative campaigns, continually refining our market strategies. By strengthening our distribution networks and forming strategic partnerships, we ensure our products remain accessible and appealing to a diverse consumer base.”

Solebo’s goal for the sales and marketing department is to foster a culture of innovation and excellence through talent development whilst harnessing emerging market trends. More importantly, she aims to enhance brand equity, expand market reach and continually elevate customer engagement just as she ensures their products consistently exceed customer expectations.

She advised aspiring female professionals to trust in their unique strengths and continuously pursue learning opportunities. Additionally, she charged them to build a strong network of mentors and peers and not to shy away from taking calculated risks.

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Any event that eases a client’s pain point is memorable for me– Olubunmi Kuteyi, Tax Partner, Kreston Pedabo

Kreston Pedabo is a professional services firm providing audit and assurance, tax compliance and advisory, financial advisory and management consulting services across all sectors of the Nigerian economy. Founded by two partners in 1998, it has evolved into a leading firm with a global outlook and a team of 10 partners aside over 200 professional staff comprising of chartered accountants, economists, financial analysts, cost and management accountants, information technology specialists and management consultants.

The firm is a member of the Kreston Global Network, a network of over 25,000 people in 160 independent accounting firms across more than 115 countries.

It is noteworthy that at present, Olubunmi Kuteyi is the Tax Partner in the firm. An accounting graduate of Lagos State University, she qualified as a chartered accountant in 2007. This was also the year she joined Kreston Pedabo, so it is obvious she had her training as a tax professional in the firm. A fellow of both the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria and the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria, she is also a member of the Business Recovery & Insolvency Practitioners of Nigeria.

Can we have an insight into your background?
Olubunmi Elizabeth Kuteyi is from the western region of Nigeria, and born in Lagos State, into the noble Christian family, of John Olaseinde Fagbohunlu, my dear father of blessed memory, and Adenike Caroline Fagbohunlu, my beautiful and disciplinarian mother. They both taught and modelled the virtues of hard work, integrity and dedication in every facet of life. This guided and shaped my perspectives as I grew in life.

You are a chartered accountant, what made you choose accountancy as a profession?
I have always loved the accounting profession. As a teenager, I dreamt of some day becoming the President of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria, ICAN. This was borne out of my perception of accountants as very serious-minded, prestigious and of course, rich individuals.

My first degree is in Accounting and Finance from the Lagos State University after which I proceeded to enrol for the ICAN Accounting Technician Scheme, ATS, and subsequently qualified as a chartered accountant in the year 2007. I am currently a Fellow of both the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria, ICAN, and the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria, CITN, as well as an Associate member of the Business Recovery and Insolvency Practitioners of Nigeria, BRIPAN.

Can you take us through your career trajectory?
My career journey is one I would call a good success story.

I walked into Kreston Pedabo, a greenhorn, some 17 years ago, after a stint with two other accounting firms in Nigeria. So, I pretty much trained from the scratch as a tax professional with Kreston Pedabo, and rose through the ranks, through hardwork, commitment, dedication and God’s grace especially. I must say I do not take that for granted.

Though somewhat unpopular, especially by today’s professionals, I have enjoyed working with and growing with the same firm for almost two decades, given the goal alignment, the depth of expertise, professionalism and opportunity for growth in the firm. This for me was a very rewarding decision, which has opened the doors to several opportunities for me within the tax practice and generally across industry.

I am currently a Tax Partner with Kreston Pedabo Professional Services, with practice focus on the financial services sector.

Who and who would you say have been most influential on your life and career?
I owe all my successes to God who supplies all strength and ability, my dear husband and kids who allow me do what I need to do, to thrive as a person and to also retain a seat at the table, as well as my bosses and mentors who have over the years been very helpful and supportive, providing the necessary training and guidance, presenting challenges and opportunities, constantly charting new courses, and modelling unlimited possibilities. Special thanks also go to my team members at the firm and my contemporaries within the industry.

As a woman, what were the challenges you have encountered in the course of your career and how did you tackle them?
Firstly, I must admit and commend the fact that more attention is being given to gender equality in organisations, so this is gradually helping to reduce gender disparity in management level roles and board seats, within the professional services space.

The industry is knowledge-based and expertise-driven, therefore intentionality about capacity building and investment in personal development is very key.
O yes, there have been the usual challenges of regularly working on sustaining relevance and keeping up with the changes and updates in the tax industry, especially around laws, regulations, government policies, accounting standards and I manage this by being intentional with prioritising my learning and development. This aids my ability to drive conversations and provide necessary support and solutions to my clientele.

Also, there is the challenge of the growth stage of the Nigerian tax system, as there are still a lot of irregularities and uncertainties that seem to be drawing us backwards compared to what is obtainable in more developed climates. Some of the canons of taxation are still relatively unsatisfied; for one, simplicity, which means it should be simple enough for taxpayers to understand and pay; as well as certainty, which says a taxpayer’s obligation should be relatively certain, so that a business can plan, project, and be able to estimate its tax obligations with a reasonable level of assurance, to prevent shocks or surprises which can suffocate or throw the business off balance, especially in view of the nation’s intention to further strengthen the ease of doing business in Nigeria.

While we are currently still far from where we should be, we are hopeful that the implementation of some of the tax reforms that are currently being deliberated at the National Assembly will help move our tax system closer to the desired destination.

Besides the above, of course is the challenge of juggling my role as a career woman, a wife and a mother. The need to ensure exceptional work outcomes, keeping the home front, while also being present, is often a demanding one for every woman. So, as much as possible, I try to create a balance by surrounding myself with available help and support from loved ones and family and also outsourcing some roles or tasks as necessary, to enable me keep up and keep sane.

Can you relate some memorable experiences that you’ve had in the course of your career?
Any event that helps me put a smile on a client’s face, concerning a pain point is usually a good one for me. Also memorable are times that I have had the opportunity for knowledge sharing on platforms within the industry, the reception and recognition that comes with that is usually encouraging.
Another is the year I made Partner at Kreston Pedabo.

 You are a Partner at Kreston Pedabo, can you tell us what the company does and what your work entails?
Kreston Pedabo is a professional services firm, providing majorly Audit and Assurance, Tax Compliance and Advisory, Financial Advisory and Management Consulting services, amongst others, across all sectors of the Nigerian economy.

Kreston Pedabo has evolved over the years, from an indigenous firm, that started operations in 1998 with two founding Partners, into a leading firm with a global outlook, providing tailor-made solutions to various clienteles, through its expanded team of 10 Partners and over 200 professional staff, across locations.

Kreston Pedabo is a member of the Kreston Global Network, a Network of over 25,000 people in 160 independent accounting firms across more than 115 countries. Our strategic positioning within the Network helps us provide the needed support to our clienteles across nations, as well as open us up to the international market.

Our primary objective is to proffer timely professional solutions at all times that enable clients to achieve competitive advantage within their respective industries and improve their overall business performance.

Our team comprises chartered accountants, economists, financial analysts, cost and management accountants, information technology specialists, and management consultants.

In what ways would you say you have been impacting the company?
Providing leadership for our teams in curating and proffering tailor-made solutions to clients’ needs, driving our business goals of profitability and increased market share, spearheading innovations for new growth areas, positive projection of the organisation’s values and brand, amongst others.

What are the challenges you face in your line of duties and how have you been tackling them?
Tax compliance in Nigeria is a tough conversation to have. Taxpayers comply because they have to, not because they are happy to. So, as a tax consultant you are the mediator between the government on one side and taxpayers on the other, stressing the importance of tax compliance to taxpayers and hoping that the government will in turn pay more attention to the terms of its social contract with the citizens, to promote voluntary tax compliance.

What are your aspirations for your division?
My aspiration for my division of our business is to double our current market share within the next two years, strengthen our business presence in the international market and become a growth and change catalyst in the Nigerian tax industry.

What advise do you have for aspiring female professionals
Ans: Challenge yourself daily and take a step further than where you were yesterday. Never allow yourself settle, even when you feel like stopping. Be brutal and intentional with your growth until you become a necessity at the top. That way, your seat at the top will always be reserved.

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I aim to achieve strategic excellence, operational efficiency and people empowerment in Solar Nigachem – MAUREEN Tiamiyu, Executive Director

Solar Nigachem Ltd, formerly known as Nigachem Nigeria Ltd was incorporated in 1987 as a company licensed to engage in the importation, marketing and sales of commercial and civil chemicals, including ammonium nitrate, detonating cord, electric detonators and non – electric detonators. In 2008, it entered into a strategic joint venture partnership with Solar Industries India Ltd, leading to the establishment of a state – of – the art emulsion manufacturing facility in Ogun State. The factory commenced full – scale production on August 2011.

It’s flagship product, SUPERPOWER – 90 is renowned for its exceptional safety standards, as it only detonates upon application of a suitable initiation stimulus. With a commitment to quality and reliability, the company delivers high performance products tailored to industry needs.

Maureen Tiamiyu, a graduate of Accounting from Obafemi Awolowo University oversees the Administration and Human Resources Department of the organization as at date. In this role, she is tasked with building and maintaining the systems, people and structures that keep the engine of the organization running smoothly. Her aspiration is to transform the department into a strategic powerhouse, a trusted proactive and innovative partner in the company’s journey towards sustainable growth

Can we have an insight into your background?
My professional journey is a blend of experience in banking, corporate administration, human resources, and executive leadership.
I studied accounting in Obafemi Awolowo University and began my career in banking, where I spent over nine years developing my skills in client relationship management, portfolio administration, and financial advisory. I rose through the ranks to become an Assistant Vice President at Barclays Bank UK, managing high-net-worth portfolios as a Premier Relationship Manager. That experience not only sharpened my financial acumen, but also strengthened my leadership capacity, risk management skills, and stakeholder engagement expertise.

Driven by a desire to create impact on a broader scale, I transitioned into the industrial sector, taking on the role of Executive Director, Administration and Human Resources at Solar Nigachem Limited—one of Nigeria’s leading companies in the manufacturing and distribution of commercial and civil mining products. In this role, I oversee the strategic management of our human capital and administrative systems, ensuring that the company runs efficiently and our people are fully empowered to contribute to our growth.

In terms of professional development, I have earned several notable qualifications, including an Honorary Doctorate Degree from the London Graduate School, a Certificate in Management Excellence from Harvard Business School, and an MBA in Management Consultancy from Anglia Ruskin University, UK

Can you take us through your career trajectory?
My professional journey began in the banking industry, where I gained vital exposure to client relationship management, operations, and financial advisory services. These formative years allowed me to develop core competencies in customer service, portfolio management, compliance, and business communication.

As I progressed in my career, I took on senior leadership roles and became an Assistant Vice President at Barclays Bank UK, one of the world’s leading financial institutions. In this capacity, I managed high-net-worth portfolios as a Premier Relationship Manager, delivering personalized financial strategies and fostering long-term client relationships.

This phase was instrumental in shaping my identity as a strategic leader and sharpened my ability to navigate complex corporate environments.

After this, I transitioned into industry leadership, currently I serve as the Executive Director of Administration and Human Resources at Solar Nigachem Ltd., a leading name in Nigeria’s mining sector.
Looking ahead, my ambition is to ascend to the role of Managing Director or CEO leveraging my multifaceted experience across finance, administration, and industry to drive impactful change.

Who and who would you say has had nostalgic influence on your life and career
The most influential person in my life and career is without a doubt my father, Engr. Sylvanus C. Ghasarah, OFR—the Founder and Chairman of Solar Nigachem Limited, formerly Nigachem Nigeria Limited. From a very young age, I watched him build a company from our garage into a nationally recognized industry leader, now supporting hundreds of families across Nigeria. His journey has had a profound impact on the way I view success, leadership, and legacy.

His guidance has helped me navigate some of the most challenging moments in both my personal and professional life. He taught me the value of strategic thinking, resilience, risk management, and ethical leadership. One of the most enduring lessons he instilled in me is that excellence has no gender, and so his expectations of us, as his daughters, were the same as they would be for sons. That mindset became the foundation of my confidence and work ethic.
What stands out most about my father is his unwavering commitment to excellence and his ability to turn adversity into opportunity. His leadership style is both inspiring and instructive, and I am incredibly grateful to have him as a mentor and role model.

I have also been greatly influenced by Mr. Sekou Abodunrin, my pastor, whose wisdom has deepened my faith and refined my leadership approach. His teachings have reinforced my values of service, humility, and purpose-driven leadership—principles I carry with me into every boardroom and every decision I make.

In addition, I draw immense strength from the countless women who are breaking barriers across various industries. Their stories of perseverance and trailblazing leadership remind me that true leadership is about creating value, not fitting into a mold. They motivate me to continue pushing boundaries and to always lift others as I rise.

Together, these influences have shaped not only my career but also the way I choose to lead.

As a woman, what are the challenges you have encountered in the course of your career and how you did tackle them.
Ans: Being a woman in leadership, particularly in traditionally male-dominated sector like mining, has presented unique experiences that have shaped me into the leader I am today. Rather than viewing these as challenges, I see them as opportunities for growth, resilience, and redefining possibilities.

One of the earliest opportunities I embraced was establishing credibility in spaces where women were underrepresented. I learned very quickly that by consistently delivering results, leading with confidence, and maintaining a strong sense of purpose, I could shift perceptions and earn not just a seat at the table, but a voice that mattered.

Another valuable experience was learning how to navigate expectations while staying true to my leadership style. I discovered that my ability to combine strategic thinking with empathy, clarity with compassion, and decisiveness with inclusiveness was not a limitation, it was a strength. These attributes helped me lead teams effectively, inspire trust, and build performance-driven cultures.

I also chose to invest in continuous learning, surround myself with experts in the industry, and develop a strong network of support that have empowered me through every stage of my career. And perhaps most importantly, I leaned into my role as a mentor and advocate, knowing that by lifting others, I was helping to create a more inclusive path for the next generation.

I believe that being a woman in leadership is not about overcoming barriers—it’s about turning them into stepping stones.

Can you relate some memorable experiences that you had in the course of your career?
One of the most defining moments in my leadership journey came when I was tasked with heading the ISO implementation process at Solar Nigachem Ltd. At the time, we were undergoing rapid organizational growth, and it became clear that to sustain our trajectory and compete on a global scale, we needed to institutionalize structure, efficiency, and international standards.

The decision to pursue ISO certification was not just about compliance, it was a strategic choice to embed excellence into our operations. As the Executive Director of Administration and Human Resources, I was at the forefront of this transformation, responsible for coordinating efforts across departments, managing change, and ensuring team-wide alignment with ISO requirements.

Like many change initiatives, the beginning was met with uncertainty and resistance. The structure and documentation that ISO demands felt, to some, like a disruption to the familiar. But as a leader, I saw this as a unique opportunity—not just to strengthen our processes, but to elevate our culture.

We began by investing in employee sensitization, cross-functional training, and transparent communication and slowly but surely, mindsets shifted.

What followed was nothing short of inspiring. Teams became more accountable, processes became more streamlined, and operational inefficiencies were addressed proactively. We weren’t just checking boxes; we were building a culture of discipline, clarity, and continuous improvement.

The moment we achieved ISO certification was deeply fulfilling, but for me, the real success laid in the journey itself: watching people evolve, seeing departments become more interconnected, and knowing that we had laid a strong foundation for sustained excellence.

When people understand the purpose behind structure, they don’t resist change, they champion it.

You are the Executive Director, Admin and HR of Solar Nigachem Limited, what does the company do and what does your work entail?
Solar Nigachem Limited is one of Nigeria’s foremost companies in the manufacturing, importation, exportation, marketing, and sales of commercial and civil mining solutions, along with other mining-related products. We serve a broad range of sectors, particularly mining, construction, and quarrying, providing safe, efficient, and reliable solutions that meet both national and international standards.

Our operations are built on over four decades of technical expertise, and we are proud to be a trusted partner in Nigeria’s industrial development, supporting infrastructure projects and contributing to the growth of the extractive industry. Our commitment to safety, innovation, and compliance has positioned us as a leader in our sector.

As the Executive Director of Administration and Human Resources, my role is multi-dimensional and strategic, covering the full scope of corporate administration, operational governance, and people management.

In my capacity as Executive Director Admin, I am responsible for overseeing the day-to-day administrative operations of the organization, ensuring that every department and process functions efficiently, cost-effectively, and in alignment with our corporate goals. My key responsibilities include Developing and implementing company-wide administrative policies and procedures to ensure consistency, compliance, and efficiency; and supervising general office operations, facility management, logistics, procurement, and asset control.

On the HR side, I lead the design and execution of people strategies that drive performance and long-term sustainability. This include: workforce planning, talent acquisition, and organizational development; employee relations, performance management, and leadership development; policy formulation, learning and development programs, and succession planning; as well as creating and nurturing an inclusive, values-driven, and high-performance work culture

In what ways are you impacting the company?.
As the Executive Director of Administration and Human Resources at Solar Nigachem Ltd., my impact on the organization is multidimensional—spanning strategic planning, operational excellence, workforce development, and administrative governance. I play a central role in ensuring that the internal structure, systems, and people are all working seamlessly to support the company’s vision for growth, safety, and sustainability.

In summary, my role is about building and maintaining the systems, people, and structures that keep the engine of the organization running smoothly. I focus on strengthening internal operations, cultivating leadership, and driving excellence across both administrative and human capital dimensions.

What are the challenges being encountered in your line of duties and how have you been surmounting them?
Resistance to Change and Process Improvement. One of the common challenges in any established organization is resistance to change, especially when introducing new administrative structures, policies, or compliance frameworks like ISO and performance framework. There is often initial pushback from staff who are used to existing workflows and are reluctant to embrace stricter systems or documentation processes.

How I Overcame It? I invested heavily in change management and communication. I take time to explain the “why” behind every change, involve key stakeholders early in the process, and ensure that every team understands how the change benefits them and the organization. This inclusive and transparent approach has helped turn resistance into buy-in.

Aligning Cross-Functional Teams. Ensuring that all departments operate in synergy is a continual challenge, especially when balancing differing priorities, managing interdepartmental dependencies, or streamlining operational workflows.

How I Overcame It? I’have established clear communication channels, interdepartmental coordination systems, and reporting frameworks. I also promote regular strategy sessions, shared KPIs, and a culture of collaboration to keep everyone aligned and accountable to shared goals.

What Are Your Aspirations for Your Department?
My aspirations for the Administration and Human Resources Department at Solar Nigachem Ltd are rooted in a vision of strategic excellence, operational efficiency, and people empowerment. I believe that both administrative and HR functions are not just support units, they are strategic enablers of business growth, organizational stability, and long-term sustainability.

Transforming the Department into a Strategic Business Partner
I aim to position the department as a core contributor to executive decision-making, not just a functional arm. I want Admin and HR to be at the forefront of shaping business strategy by providing data-driven insights, managing organizational risks, and aligning people and systems with business goals.

Fostering a High-Performance and Inclusive Culture
Another aspiration is to solidify a performance-driven yet people-centric culture—one where employees feel valued, engaged, and motivated to deliver their best. I want our department to champion diversity, equity, inclusion, and employee wellbeing as part of the organization’s DNA.

Enhancing Operational Support and Business Continuity
On the administrative side, I am focused on building systems that ensure business continuity, cost control, and seamless internal operations.

In summary, my aspiration is to transform the Administration and HR department into a strategic powerhouse, a trusted, proactive, and innovative partner in Solar Nigachem’s journey toward sustainable growth. Through smart systems, capable people, and a values-driven approach, we will continue to build a department that empowers the business and its people to thrive.

What advice do you have for aspiring female professionals?
You are limitless. Your dreams and ambitions are valid. Never let anyone define your potential.

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I aim to be a globally recognised HR expert—Damilola Isiade

She has an engineering background, but had always been drawn to the humanities – related professions. Besides, her mother who is known for her extensive warmth and generosity helped in shaping her approach to people management. It is thus no wonder that Damilola Isiade is today in the human resources management profession.

Said she: “I hold an engineering degree from the University of Ibadan, and an MBA from Lagos Business School. Over the past 20 years however, I have built a career in HR, working with start – ups and growing companies across oil and gas, investment advisory, real estate, technology, consulting, microfinance and mining.

“ I have always been drawn to humanities – related professions. Initially, I considered medicine but opted out due to my aversion for blood. During my internship at Nestle in my final year, I rotated through various departments and discovered that working with people brought me the most fulfilment. That experience cemented my decision to build a career in HR.”

Her HR journey commenced at Ocean and Oil Holdings in 2005, but she joined Seven Energy Exploration and Production now Savannah Energy in 2011. It however was at Ocean and Oil Holdings that her career got exposed to global HR practices through CIPD workshops in the UK. She says she has Mr Pade Durotoye, then CEO of the company to thank for this. Five years after working at Savannah Energy, she felt the need to go into consulting, so she left and started her consulting practice which she does till date.

On the defining moments in her career, she said it is during crises like COVID – 19 and Ebola that real tests came for her. According to her, developing business continuity plans, remote work policies and handling workforce restructuring were real tests then. Another unforgettable experience for her was working with a tech startup where she built their HR strategy from the ground up, leading to successful market expansions.

On why she went into consulting, she replied that it was her passion for helping companies build sustainable people strategies that led her to it. “Over the years, I noticed gaps in HR structures, employee retention and compliance, especially in the startups and SMES and consulting has allowed me to bridge the gaps by supporting businesses in talent management, HR digital transformation and leadership development,” she intoned

Isiade aims to be a globally recognized HR leader who will be shaping people management strategies that drive business successes. And to aspiring female professionals, she counselled them to believe in their skills and intelligence. “Speak up, take on leadership roles and own your space with confidence. The workforce needs more women in decision – making positions and the best way to get this is through courage, competence and continuous growth,” she told them.

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We aspire to lead in people and organizational transformational services in Nigeria – Aderemi Adekunle, CEO, Dapsadek Consulting

A C – suite human resources management professional of 24 years standing, Aderemi Adekunle runs Dapsadek Consulting, a top firm offering specialized expertise and strategic solutions that help organizations improve efficiency, compliance, culture and employee experience aimed at driving business success. The firm integrates business insights with organizational development strategies to create human resources solutions that helps businesses accomplish ambitious goals whilst addressing complex challenges.

Speaking on how the firm has fared in its over four years of existence, Adekunle quipped: “ It has been great as we have recorded an impressive growth in the last two years and enjoyed great support from partners who have trusted our capability over the years. Our services have been top – notch in response to changing organizational dynamism.”

Adekunle who informed that she’s always excited when offering solutions to people and organizational challenges has had many memorable experiences in her professional journey. One that particularly sticks in her memory was when she joined an organization at the peak of a crisis. According to her, some of their staff exited because of this and there was apprehension everywhere. “Within two months of my employment,” she says, “we stabilized the system. We had a successful peak period and that was the beginning of a massive turnaround for that organization.”

Besides, her company recently delivered a 10-year Strategic Business plan for a conglomerate, a thing she considers as defining in her career journey as well.

Asked of the challenges she has encountered in her career, she was quick to point out that though there were challenges but they contributed to her career growth, and that because of this, she sees the challenges as stepping stones. She says: “I spearheaded organizational development and change throughout my working career and till now as a consultant. Implementing a new culture or change initiative can be a significant challenge because of people’s apprehension. My passion and zeal to make a difference are always the driving force in the face of change management challenges. However, it is always worth it when organizations and people transform just because someone dared to lead change initiatives.”
A fellow of the Chartered Institute of Personnel Management of Nigeria and globally licensed with SPHRi certification, Adekunle, who also holds an MBA is very futuristic. She envisions her company being the leader in people and organizational transformation services in Nigeria through the use of impactful career and workplace solutions.

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We shall remain proactive in identifying and eliminating any risk to Solar Nigachem – Olubukola Oreofe, GM Internal Control, Solar Nigachem

As the General Manager, Internal Control and Audit for Solar Nigachem Ltd, Olubukola Oreofe is tasked with the job of safeguarding the organization’s assets, ensuring adequate control policies are in place and making sure there is compliance with both statutory and non – statutory obligations, policies and procedures. These, she has been doing commendably well much to the delight of all stakeholders.

Oreofe, a chartered accountant, studied Accounting at the Yaba College of Technology and capped it with a Bachelors in Industrial and Labour Relations at the Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago Iwoye. After her youth service in 2007, she immediately joined the accounting firm of Fola Akiyode & Co, where she honed her audit and practical accounting skills. She rose to the position of Assistant Audit Manager and led various audit exercises in this role before leaving for Greater Washington Capital Ltd, working there briefly as Head of Account.
She equally worked at Food Emporium and Hazon Holdings before coming over to Solar Nigachem in 2021 as GM, Internal Control

Oreofe has been impacting the company positively by ensuring staff compliance with company policies and administrative policies. However, she is not immune to challenges. She says: “The most common challenge is introducing new policies for organizational improvements and ensuring its implementations. Humans generally resist change. But persistence and continuous enforcement have helped in countering many of those challenges in the line of duty”

She returns all glory to God for her current status in life. Additionally, she thanks her parents and siblings, and in particular, her husband, whom she says has been a pillar of support in making sure she succeeds in her job. She also did not forget to thank Mr Ololade Fadeyibi, now of blessed memory who first brought her into the audit line, Mr Abolaji Awotide, Engr Sylvanus Ghasarah for the roles they played in guiding her career path as well as the entire Solar Nigachem team for being supportive to her success.

On her aspirations for the Internal Control and Audit Department, she remarked: “To continuously remain proactive in identifying any form of risk to the organization and eliminating them immediately.” And to aspiring female professionals, she advised them to be relentless in their pursuit of excellence.

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At Periwinkle Empire, I Have Successfully Structured And Negotiated High – Value Real Estate Acquisitions – Jennifer Kaja, Group Chief Legal Officer

Can we have an insight into your background?
My name is Jennifer Kaja, and I am a lawyer by profession. I currently serve as the Group Chief Legal Officer of Periwinkle Empire and am also the Founder of the Not Just A Pretty Face organization.

My academic journey has been diverse and enriching. I studied Mandarin in Hong Kong, obtained a Diploma in Law from the University of Jos, and later graduated with honours from the University of Wales with a Law degree.

With a legal career spanning over a decade, I have gained extensive experience in both private practice and in-house legal advisory. I began my professional journey as an associate at Giwa Osagie & Co. and DLA Piper Africa, where I honed my expertise in corporate and commercial law. In 2020, I transitioned from private practice to in-house legal advisory, a move that has allowed me to take a more strategic role in corporate governance, regulatory compliance, and high-value real estate acquisitions.

You are a lawyer, why did you decide to study law?
Ans: Interestingly, my initial exposure to the professional world was through modelling, an industry where one’s worth is often judged by external appearance. However, I knew I had far more to offer beyond aesthetics. I wanted my voice to be heard and my intellect to be valued.

I have always been deeply passionate about advocacy and justice, and I strongly believed that the legal profession, being both honourable and intellectually stimulating, would provide me with a platform to champion the rights of others. Studying law has indeed given me that voice, enabling me to advocate for individuals and businesses, negotiate high-stakes deals, and contribute meaningfully to shaping corporate and real estate policies.

Who has been most influential in your life and career?
First and foremost, God has been my greatest source of inspiration and guidance. Every significant decision I make is anchored in faith and divine direction.
On a personal level, my late fiancé was one of my biggest supporters—he believed wholeheartedly in my potential, motivating me to pursue my ambitions with confidence and determination.

Professionally, I have been fortunate to have incredible mentors who shaped my career. Mrs. Bosede Giwa Osagie and Mrs. Bola Tinubu, both of whom I worked with in the early stages of my career, played instrumental roles in shaping my legal acumen and professional ethos.

I also hold Dr. Chiedu Nweke, the Chairman of Periwinkle Empire, in high regard. His guidance and leadership have been pivotal in shaping my approach to corporate law and business strategy.

As a woman, what challenges have you encountered in the course of your career?
One of the most significant challenges I have faced as a woman in corporate law is being taken seriously in high-stakes negotiations, particularly in the male-dominated real estate industry. Early in my career, I observed that despite my expertise, my input was sometimes questioned or overlooked.

To overcome this, I committed myself to mastering the intricacies of corporate transactions, staying ahead through continuous learning, strategic thinking, and assertiveness. Over time, my results spoke louder than words. I led successful real estate acquisitions in Eko Atlantic, Victoria Island, and Ikoyi, reinforcing my credibility in the field. I also negotiated various Joint Venture and Joint Development Agreements. This experience reaffirmed that women excel not by seeking validation but by demonstrating expertise and delivering excellence.

Another major challenge has been maintaining a work-life balance, especially in a high-pressure industry where long hours and urgent negotiations are the norm. At one point, I realized that prioritizing work without setting personal boundaries was affecting both my productivity and well-being.

To address this, I became intentional about time management, set firm boundaries between work and personal life, delegated tasks more effectively, and leveraged technology to streamline legal processes. Additionally, I made self-care a non-negotiable part of my routine—whether through exercise, spending time with loved ones, or simply taking mental breaks.

This shift not only made me more efficient at work but also improved my decision-making and leadership capabilities. Today, I advocate for a more flexible work culture within my team, ensuring that everyone can achieve a sustainable work-life balance.

Can you share some memorable experiences from your career?
One of the most defining moments in my career was playing a key role in Periwinkle Empire’s expansion strategy through the acquisition of high-value properties in Eko Atlantic, Victoria Island, and Ikoyi. As the corporate lawyer overseeing these transactions, I was responsible for conducting extensive due diligence, negotiating agreements, and ensuring regulatory compliance.

A particularly complex transaction involved securing a prime property in Victoria Island, which encountered significant hurdles and unforeseen encumbrances. These obstacles threatened to derail the acquisition, but I worked closely with government agencies, external counsel, and financial institutions to resolve the issues. I restructured the agreement, incorporating protective clauses that safeguarded my company’s interests while ensuring compliance with regulatory frameworks.

Despite the challenges, the transaction was successfully concluded, marking a major milestone in the company’s growth. This experience not only reinforced my problem-solving abilities and resilience but also underscored the critical role of corporate lawyers in shaping large-scale real estate investments.

You are the Group Head of Legal for Periwinkle Empire, what does the company do, and what does your work entail?
Periwinkle Empire is a premier luxury real estate development company specializing in the creation of upscale residential and mixed-use communities. Our projects are known for their high-end architectural designs, world-class infrastructure, and prime locations, such as our flagship development, Periwinkle Lifestyle Estate in Lekki, Lagos. We focus on delivering exceptional living experiences through meticulous planning, innovative design, and sustainable development.

As the Group Head of Legal, I oversee all legal and regulatory aspects of the company’s operations. My role includes structuring and negotiating high-value real estate transactions, ensuring regulatory compliance, handling corporate governance, managing contract drafting and review, and mitigating legal risks. I work closely with government agencies, financial institutions, and external counsel to facilitate seamless project execution while safeguarding the company’s interests.

However, my role extends beyond conventional legal duties. Working at Periwinkle has given me a deep understanding of the real estate business itself. I have been actively involved in strategic marketing, selection of construction materials, supervising contractors and vendors, and overseeing project management. This exposure has allowed me to engage in the full life cycle of a development project—from acquisition and construction to branding and sales. It’s a dynamic experience that has broadened my expertise beyond law, making me not just a legal advisor but an integral part of the company’s overall growth and success.

What impact have you had on the company?
My impact at Periwinkle Empire goes beyond legal functions. I have successfully structured and negotiated high-value real estate acquisitions, mitigated legal risks, and ensured compliance with regulatory requirements. This has helped the company secure prime properties in Lagos, Abuja, Anambra State, and the United Kingdom, solidifying our local and international presence.

I also proactively mitigate legal risks, preventing disputes before they arise. As a result, the company rarely faces litigation, saving time and resources. Additionally, I advocate for strong corporate governance and ensure that our internal policies align with best business practices.

What challenges do you encounter, and how do you overcome them?
Key challenges include navigating complex regulatory frameworks, bureaucratic delays in obtaining approvals, and negotiating high-stakes deals in a male-dominated industry. I address these by maintaining strong regulatory relationships, meticulous documentation, and strategic negotiation skills.
Balancing my legal responsibilities with broader business functions also requires adaptability, continuous learning, and efficient time management.

What are your goals for the legal department?
My goal is to reinforce the idea that a lawyer is not just a legal advisor but can manage a business full cycle. I aim to enhance regulatory efficiency, proactive risk management, and contract optimization. Additionally, I want to foster a legal team that understands not just law but also business, marketing, and project management.

What advice do you have for aspiring female professionals?
My advice to aspiring female professionals is simple: embrace your limitless potential. Do not confine yourself to traditional roles or allow societal expectations to dictate your career path. Women can lead, negotiate high-stakes deals, and run businesses successfully.

Be confident in your expertise, always stay prepared, and let your results speak for you. In male-dominated industries, you may have to prove yourself more than your peers, but consistency, knowledge, and resilience will earn you the respect you deserve.

It is also important to seek mentors and surround yourself with inspirational leaders who challenge and guide you. This belief inspired me to create The Not Just a Pretty Face Organization, a platform dedicated to empowering young women to dream big, push boundaries, and unlock their full potential.

Work-life balance is equally crucial, prioritize self-care and set boundaries to avoid burnout. Lastly, build a strong network, support other women, and never be afraid to take up space at the table. You are not just a professional; you are a force.

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I see myself as playing a key role in shaping global products in the future -Tobi Dele- Safa, Senior Product Manager, Kuda

She read Petroleum Engineering at the University of Ibadan but like many in her generation, she found herself drawn to the world of technology and problem-solving. So she pivoted her career to technology, working on building enterprise system in the fraud, risk, governance and compliance space. Today, Tobi Dele-Safa works at Kuda, a leading digital bank in Nigeria as a Senior Product Manager, a role that spans building the bank’s core banking infrastructure, developing credit platforms, and scaling fraud detection systems to handle millions of daily transactions.

At the bank, there has been some moments that has been unforgettable for her. “One was when we went live with the first version of the transaction monitoring system. It had taken months of work, constant iterations and a lot of back-and-forth discussions with the engineering and compliance teams. So, when it finally went live, the sense of accomplishment across the teams was incredible, knowing that something we built was protecting millions of users from potential harm. It was huge,” she recalled.

As the Senior Product Manager for Credit, her day-to day work revolves around shaping how the bank delivers credit to its customers in a way that is smarter, flexible and more aligned to the needs of users. That means having to constantly refine their product strategy and collaborating with teams like credit risk, working closely with the compliance and fraud teams, and partnering with customer experience to understand what users love.

Letting the cat out of the bag, she informed: “One product I’m really excited about is the revamped version of Kuda Overdraft which we are launching soon. We have put a lot of thought into making it more dynamic, and we are looking forward to rolling it out”.

She continued: “If you look at the world’s most developed economies, credit is accessible, affordable, and deeply embedded into daily life. That’s exactly what we are building at Kuda; credit that works for Nigerians in a way that makes sense for us”.

Ultimately Tobi sees herself playing a key role in shaping global products by coming up with solutions that are not only impactful in Nigeria or Africa, but that touch lives across the globe.