Director, Corporate and Regulatory Affairs, BAT Marketing Nigeria, Odiri Erewa-Meggison, has been named in the 2025 Empower Executives Role Model List, an initiative supported by YouTube and compiled by INvolve.
This was announced in a statement yesterday by the company.
The Empower Role Model List celebrates senior executives who are leading with intention to drive inclusion and create business environments where people of colour can thrive.
Odiri has been recognised for her outstanding dedication to fostering equitable workplaces, championing diverse talent, and shaping inclusive policies both within BAT and across the broader industry.
Reacting to the recognition, Odiri Erewa-Meggison said: “This recognition reaffirms my belief that true leadership is about lifting others as you rise. It is an honour to stand alongside such incredible leaders who are committed to building organisations that truly reflect and respect the diversity of our world. I remain dedicated to using my voice and platform to break barriers and create opportunities for others to thrive.”
In her role at BAT West and Central Africa, Odiri has been instrumental in advancing the company’s sustainability and ESG leadership agenda while driving impactful stakeholder collaborations across the region. Her leadership continues to strengthen BAT Nigeria’s culture of inclusion through initiatives focused on equitable representation, leadership development, mentorship, and talent empowerment.
Founder & CEO of INvolve, Suki Sandhu, commented on the announcement: “I’m so thrilled to be celebrating this global group of trailblazing Executives, Future Leaders, and Advocates for people of colour in business. All the individuals within these lists are championing inclusion and leveraging their expertise to drive impactful initiatives and strategic change within their organisations. These role models are essential drivers of change who are smashing barriers to progress. We could not effect change without them leading the way.”
Also congratulating Odiri, the Managing Director, BAT West and Central Africa, Yarub Al-Bahrani, said: “Odiri’s inclusion in this year’s Empower Role Model List is proof of her unwavering commitment to inclusive leadership and transformational impact. Her passion for equity and empowerment continues to inspire our teams and partners. We are incredibly proud to have her as part of our leadership team, shaping a better tomorrow for our people and our business.”
The Empower Role Model List is released yearly to spotlight and celebrate leaders globally who are creating workplaces where everyone, regardless of background, has the opportunity to rise and succeed.
