…Celebrates Largest Cohort of Women Leaders
Celebrating the achievements of 198 mentees, with this year having the largest cohort since the programme’s inception, Women in Management, Business and Public Service (WIMBIZ) through its Women on Board (WIMboard) held its first in-person mentorship programme graduation.
Held in Lagos the event reflected the strength of mentorship and collective action in shaping women’s leadership journey bringing together mentors, trustees, industry leaders, and supporters to honour the graduating class.
Speaking at the ceremony, the Chair of the 2025 WIMBoard Committee, Mrs. Hilda Nkor, said the event is a celebration of vision, hard work, and a shared commitment to advancing women in leadership. She emphasised that the programme exists to promote and support women’s representation in corporate roles and highlighted its three strategic pillars: advocacy, mentorship, and skill development.
Delivering a goodwill message at the ceremony, the CBN Governor, Olayemi Cardoso, represented by Dr. Aisha Isa-Olatunwo, praised the programme’s alignment with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), national priorities, and the bank’s broader inclusivity agenda.
“This theme is not only timely, it is transformational. Impact represents the effect of our actions today, while legacy reflects the enduring influence we leave behind. When our impact matches our intent, we influence not just personal careers but the nation’s path forward.”
A highlight of the event was a panel discussion featuring Member board of trustees, Aisha Ahmad; Chairman MTN foundation, Dr. Mosun Belo-Olusoga and Chairman, Planet Governance Advisory, Dr. Nosike Agokei. Together, they shared frank, personal experiences, highlighting the challenges and responsibilities of being “firsts” in boardrooms historically dominated by men.
According to Dr. Belo-Olusoga, “We cannot allow just one woman on a board and say the job is done. We need to multiply opportunities for other women to follow, because when one woman fails on a board, it blocks opportunities for others, but when a woman succeeds, it opens the door for more.”
The programme also celebrated mentors, acknowledging the critical role they play in developing future leaders. “Mentors give something only God can give. It’s their time and that is the highest gift. And it’s how legacy is built.” Mrs. Ahmad said.
According to testimonies of some of the mentees, the programme offered more than just academic learning. By helping women strengthen their personal brands and practise real-world business scenarios, it has become a valuable stepping stone for those aiming for leadership roles at the highest level.
A WIMboard Fellow mentee, Nnenna Ofulue said, “This programme doesn’t just prepare you it equips you. I would recommend it to every woman aiming for the boardroom. You have nothing to lose and everything to gain.” While another mentee, Brenda Unuavworho noted that one session that has impacted her is the boardroom simulations. “The groups got us on our toes. It was practical, it was hands-on, and it was real life-touching. I will never forget that in a hurry.”
