Africa’s richest woman and philanthropist, Folorunsho Alakija, has urged Nigerian women to remain steadfast in pursuing their ambitions, encouraging them not to be discouraged by rejection or gender-related barriers, but to rely on persistence, courage and faith to achieve success.

Alakija, Founder of Famfa Oil, gave the charge during an Exclusive Leadership Conversation held at Eko Hotels & Suites as part of activities marking the 2026 International Women’s Day celebration, hosted by Optiva Capital Partners.

This year’s International Women’s Day, observed on March 8, was themed “Give to Gain.”

Speaking at the event, Alakija encouraged women to remain confident in their abilities and refuse to allow societal expectations or setbacks to derail their visions.

She emphasised that achievements are products of discipline, intentional effort and perseverance, describing her own journey from a modest background to becoming one of Nigeria’s most prominent business figures as one guided by faith and deliberate action.

“Every single woman here is special in the hands of the Lord. I am just a tool; it has never been about me, but about God working through me,” she said.

Reflecting on her early life, Alakija recounted growing up in a large polygamous family and being sent to the United Kingdom at a young age, where exposure to diverse cultures helped shape her worldview. She noted that although she initially aspired to study law, her father insisted she pursue a secretarial course a decision she later recognised as pivotal to her career path.

“I thought I wanted to be a lawyer, but God had a different plan. Looking back, I see how every step was ordered,” she said.

Alakija explained that her professional journey spanned secretarial work, banking, fashion design and eventually the oil and gas sector.

According to her, she worked in banking for over a decade, rising through the ranks despite lacking formal qualifications at the time, before venturing into entrepreneurship.

She recalled that her breakthrough in the oil industry came after nearly three years of pursuing an oil prospecting licence amid repeated setbacks.

“I sowed seeds of tenacity, courage, patience and passion. I refused to take ‘no’ for an answer,” she said.

Outlining what she described as the “ingredients for success,” Alakija advised women to seek God first, use their time and talents wisely, remain focused, maintain credibility and embrace continuous learning.

She also stressed the importance of philanthropy and social responsibility, noting that wealth should serve as a tool for uplifting others rather than creating divisions.

“What do you do when you get to the top? You use your influence to lift others,” she added, stressing that faith and persistence remain essential for lasting impact.

Also speaking at the forum, Executive Director, Business Development at Optiva Capital Partners, Amaka Okeke, called for stronger collaboration among women, describing the gathering as a platform designed to foster honest conversations beyond polished success narratives.

She said the theme, “Give to Gain,” reflected the daily sacrifices women make while striving for personal and professional growth.

“We are building a community where women can connect, share experiences and grow together,” Okeke said.