Since its establishment, the University of Calabar (fondly referred to as UNICAL), has carved a niche for itself as a foremost institution in Nigeria. UNICAL has lived up to the purpose for which it was established to “be a world-class university comparable to any other, engaged in imparting contemporary knowledge, using high quality facilities and multi-disciplinary approaches, to men and women of all races, as well as generating new ideas and intellectual practices relevant to the needs of its immediate community, Nigeria and the world at large”.

As a matter of fact, the excellence and greatness of UNICAL products reflect the vigorous mission that came with her creation fifty years ago. Thus, without mincing words, University of Calabar has justified the essence of her existence having built a legacy of academic excellence as evident in her production of top range professionals across different sphere of human endeavours, including academia, that have had tremendous impact on development in Nigeria, and even beyond.

In this edition, and in celebration of the institution’s Golden Jubilee, The Guardian showcases a number of Distinguished Ambassadors of UNICAL by featuring Dame Dr. Adaora Umeoji, OON, Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Zenith Bank PLC; Pastor Uwem Andrew-Essien, FCI, ACTI, Accountant General, Akwa Ibom State; Prof. Ndubuisi Ekekwe, Founder, Tekedia Capital and
Chairman/CEO, FASMICRO Group; Dr. Christiana Imeh Amida, Executive Director, Lekki Gardens Estate
Limited.

Why UNICAL must invest more in advanced digital infrastructure, research, stronger linkages with
industries, for demands of modern economy, by Umeoji
With nearly three decades of cognate banking experience and over 20 years of extensive executive management
expertise in Zenith Bank, Dame Dr. Adaora Umeoji, OON, has established herself as one of the leading figures
within the Banking Sector. She is the Chairperson of Zenith Bank UK and Zenith Nominees Limited; and sits on the
board of Zenith Bank (Ghana) PLC as a Non-Executive Director.

Dame Dr. Adaora Umeoji is an alumna of the prestigious Harvard Business School, where she completed the
Advanced Management Program (AMP) and Columbia Business School with a Certificate in the Global Banking
Program. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology from the University of Jos, a Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting, and a First-Class Honors in Law from Baze University, Abuja. Additionally, she obtained a Master of Laws from the University of Salford, United Kingdom, and a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Calabar. Her academic and professional pursuits culminated in a Doctorate in Business Administration from Apollos University, USA, with research focused on inspirational leadership which has been recognized for its significant contribution to leadership and people management.

Her commitment to continuous learning and professional excellence is demonstrated by her participation in Executive Management Programmes at esteemed institutions worldwide, including the MIT Sloan School of Management, USA, where she acquired a Certificate in Economics for Business, Harvard Business School, USA with Certificates in Leading Global Businesses and Executive Programme in Strategic Management, and Wharton Business School with a Certificate in Strategic Thinking and Management for Competitive Advantage programme. Dame Dr. Adaora Umeoji is a Certificated Professional Banker of the Chartered Banker Institute, London, and a Distinguished Fellow of numerous professional bodies, including the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria, Institute of Credit Administration, Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Nigeria, Institute of Chartered Meditators & Conciliators, Institute of Chartered Secretaries & Administrators of Nigeria, amongst others.

Throughout her career, Dame Dr. Adaora Umeoji has delivered keynote speeches and lead papers at prestigious academic conferences and symposia, influencing discussions on financial growth drivers and inspirational leadership. She has actively contributed to high level bankers’ meetings, driving impactful strategies for the advancement of the Banking Industry and national economic growth. Passionate about mentoring and youth empowerment, she has delivered motivational speeches aimed at nurturing future banking professionals and
leaders. Beyond her corporate responsibilities, Dame Adaora Umeoji is deeply committed to philanthropy and service to
humanity. She founded the Pink Breath Cancer Care Foundation which educates, supports cancer patients, and promotes healthcare programmes across Nigeria. Also, she established the Adorable Foundation with a focus on educating and providing for indigent children, particularly the Girl-Child. Her humanitarian efforts have garnered recognition from esteemed organisations, including the Nigerian Red Cross and Sun Newspaper which recently honored her with the Humanitarian Service Icon Award, 2023.

Dame Dr. Adaora Umeoji’s commitment to ethical banking led her to institute the Catholic Bankers Association of
Nigeria (CBAN). Similarly, she is recognized as a Peace Advocate of the United Nations (UNPOLAC) and a Lady of
the Order of Knights of St. John International (KSJI). Her advocacy efforts were further acknowledged by His Holiness Pope Francis, who conferred on her the Papal Knight of the Order of St. Sylvester.

In 2022, the Federal Government of Nigeria honored Dr. Umeoji with Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON), in recognition of her contributions to nation building which highlights her dedication to the sustainable development of Nigeria.

Reacting to her recognition by The Guardian as one of the “Fifty Most Distinguished Alumni Of University of Calabar With Impactful Contribution To National Development”, Dame Dr. Adaora Umeoji spoke about her professional career journey, what inspired her choice of UNICAL, areas of improvements for the institution to take her rightful place in the comity of other schools, what to be done for more women to get educated, empowered and contribute to society, among sundry issues. Excerpts …

Tell us briefly about your personal/professional background and what inspired you to study at University of Calabar (UNICAL).

My personal and professional background is one deeply rooted in a commitment to excellence, integrity, and a relentless pursuit of knowledge. Growing up, I was instilled with the values of hard work and the importance of education as a foundation for achieving one’s aspirations. This early grounding propelled me through my academic pursuits, culminating in a degree in Sociology from the University of Jos. That foundational understanding of societal structures and human behavior has proven invaluable throughout my career, providing a unique lens through which to approach the complexities of the financial world.

My professional trajectory has been one of dedicated service and continuous growth within the Banking Sector. Prior to assuming the role of Group Managing Director/Chief Executive of Zenith Bank PLC, a position I hold with immense responsibility and pride, I served as Deputy Managing Director. Across my nearly three decades with Zenith Bank, I have held various leadership roles, each providing me with a comprehensive understanding of the intricacies of our operations, our people, and our commitment to our stakeholders. My experience spans key areas such as retail banking, corporate banking, strategic planning, allowing me to develop a holistic perspective on the
Industry. Regarding University of Calabar (UNICAL), my decision to pursue a Master of Business Administration (MBA) there, was driven by a profound belief in the power of continuous learning and the importance of strong business acumen within the dynamic financial services industry. My experience in banking highlighted the critical need for strategic thinking, effective leadership, and a comprehensive understanding of business principles to navigate market challenges and drive organisational success. UNICAL, at the time, held a strong reputation for its business school and its MBA programme, and I was drawn to the caliber of its faculty and the practical, real-world focus of its curriculum. I was inspired by the opportunity to enhance my management skills, to develop a broader perspective
on business strategy, and to equip myself with an advanced understanding of key areas such as finance, marketing,
and operations.

It was a deliberate choice, driven by a desire for personal and professional growth, and I am grateful for the enriching experience and the valuable knowledge I gained during my time pursuing my MBA at UNICAL. How can you describe the UNICAL experience and how it has shaped your worldview, life and career journey, as well as the impact on your to day-to-day activities, especially as the Group Managing Director and Chief Executive of Zenith Bank PLC?

UNICAL evokes warmth and a profound sense of gratitude within me. My time at the University was a transformative experience that profoundly shaped my worldview and laid the foundation for my life and career. The diverse and intellectually stimulating environment exposed me to a wide range of perspectives, fostering an understanding of Nigeria’s rich tapestry and the importance of engaging with differing viewpoints. The academic rigor instilled in me critical thinking, meticulous research skills, and a strong work ethic – qualities that have proven invaluable throughout my professional journey.

In essence, UNICAL provided me with a foundational worldview rooted in inclusivity, a life enriched by lasting relationships, and a career propelled by discipline and resilience. It instilled in me the belief in hard work, the value of diverse perspectives, and the importance of human connection – principles that continue to guide my leadership at Zenith Bank and in all aspects of my life. The university offered more than just a degree; it was a crucible for personal and professional growth, for which I remain deeply grateful.

Can you share with us what you consider as the most pleasant and most trying moment in your days in UNICAL?
Reflecting on my time at UNICAL evokes a cascade of memories, both those that still bring a smile to my face and those that tested the very core of my being. Choosing a single moment is akin to selecting a favorite star in a vast galaxy, but certain experiences shine particularly bright. I recall vividly the collective joy and sense of accomplishment after successfully completing a particularly challenging group project in my final year. The late nights spent poring over books, the intense discussions, the pooling of our diverse talents – culminating in a presentation we were all immensely proud of. That shared triumph, the camaraderie and the tangible evidence of our
hard work, remains a cherished memory. It underscored for me the power of collaboration and the immense satisfaction derived from achieving a common goal, a principle I carry with me daily at Zenith Bank.

Conversely, pinpointing the most trying moment requires a similar degree of contemplation of university life, as enriching as it was, was not without its hurdles. I remember a period when I faced a confluence of challenges – a particularly demanding course with a looming crucial examination, coupled with some personal matters that required careful navigation. The weight of these simultaneous pressures felt immense at the time, testing my resilience and my ability to manage stress. It was during this period that I truly learned the importance of
perseverance, of breaking down seemingly insurmountable obstacles into smaller, manageable steps, and of seeking
support from friends and mentors.

This experience, though difficult, ultimately forged within me a deeper understanding of my own strength and the importance of maintaining composure under pressure – a skill that is undeniably crucial in the dynamic and often demanding world of banking leadership. Till date, University of Calabar is considered as one of the frontrunners in Nigeria’s tertiary education, as one of the most distinguished alumni, what other areas of improvements would you like to see the institution in the next few years to come?

As a proud Malabresse, I believe UNICAL undeniably holds a distinguished place in Nigeria’s tertiary landscape. Its future success lies in strategically building upon its existing strengths while embracing innovation. To maintain its frontrunner status in the coming years, I would advocate for a greater emphasis on fostering stronger linkages with industries and the evolving demands of modern economy. This could involve enhancing curriculum relevance through closer collaboration with businesses, promoting more robust internship and mentorship programmes, and establishing dedicated centers for entrepreneurship and skills development. By proactively aligning its academic offerings with the practical needs of the professional world, UNICAL can further empower its graduates to become
immediate contributors and leaders in their chosen fields, thereby solidifying its reputation for producing highly
sought-after talent.

Furthermore, I believe significant strides can be made in leveraging technology to enhance the learning experience and expand the institution’s reach. Investing in state-of-the-art digital infrastructure, promoting online learning platforms, and integrating advanced technological tools into teaching and research will not only modernise the educational delivery but also attract a wider pool of students and facilitate greater collaboration on a global scale.

Additionally, continued focus on research and development, coupled with initiatives to attract and retain top-tier faculty, is crucial for driving intellectual advancement and maintaining academic excellence. By prioritizing these areas of improvement – strengthening industry partnerships and embracing technological advancements –University of Calabar will sustain its position as a leading tertiary institution and also elevate its impact on Nigeria’s socio-economic development. Today, quite a number of tertiary institutions have incorporated entrepreneurial education into their curriculum.

In your own opinion, what other qualities do you think are required or needed for young entrepreneurs to make
it to the top in Nigeria?

The inclusion of entrepreneurial education in tertiary curriculum is a commendable step towards nurturing the next generation of business leaders in Nigeria. We must change the mindset of our graduates from seeking employment to creating wealth at graduation. However, while knowledge and skills in business management are crucial, several other intrinsic qualities are equally vital for young entrepreneurs aspiring to reach the pinnacle of success in our dynamic and often challenging environment. Beyond the classroom, a deep reservoir of resilience is paramount. The entrepreneurial journey is rarely a linear path; it is often fraught with setbacks, unexpected hurdles, and moments that test one’s resolve. The ability to persevere through adversity, to learn from failures, and to maintain an unwavering belief in one’s vision is what truly distinguishes those who ultimately succeed.

UWEM ANDREW-ESSIEN: A Distinguished Malabite, Setting New Standards in Public Financial
Management
Beyond the degree, a great university education cultivates the skills, character and vision that transform individuals
into leaders who make a lasting impact. This is evident in the remarkable journey of Pastor Uwem Andrew-Essien,
FCA, a distinguished alumnus of the University of Calabar. As the Accountant General of Akwa Ibom State, his
leadership and expertise have been instrumental in shaping the state’s financial landscape, demonstrating the
profound impact that a good education can have on an individual’s career and community.
His distinguished career as Accountant General of Akwa Ibom State is a direct reflection of the strong foundation he built during his undergraduate years at UNICAL. His degree in Accounting from the class of 1987 did more than just impart knowledge; it developed the skills, values and competencies that define a true professional. Today, as one of the university’s notable alumni, his success story underscores the critical role of knowledge acquisition and hard work in shaping individuals for successful and fulfilling careers. From humble beginnings in Onna, Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Uwem Andrew-Essien’s intellectual prowess was evident even in his formative years. His academic brilliance shone brightly during his elementary education days, foreshadowing a trajectory of excellence that would unfold in the years to come. When he graduated from UNICAL in 1987, the expectations were palpable. Many of his lecturers and coursemates anticipated that he would make a significant impact in his professional journey, and little did they know, he would far exceed those expectations.

Reflecting on the pivotal decision that shaped his academic trajectory, Pastor Uwem Andrew-Essien attributed family ties as the catalyst for his choice of the University of Calabar for his undergraduate studies. “It was my senior brother who was already a student at UNICAL at the time that inspired me to apply to the university,” he recalled. This personal connection not only familiarized him with the institution’s strong academic reputation but also gave him a firsthand look at the dynamic university life in Calabar. Determined to enhance his skills and deepen his understanding of global business practices, he ventured abroad where he earned a Master’s in Business Administration (MBA) from the esteemed University of Hartford, Connecticut, in 1993. This international exposure broadened his perspective, equipping him with invaluable insights into financial management, strategic leadership and best practices in accounting, further sharpening his expertise. Speaking on the lecturer that had the greatest impact on him as an undergraduate, he said, “All my lecturers touched my life at different times and in different ways, and their contributions towards preparing me for years after graduation cannot be overemphasized. However, late Prof Edet Iwok made the greatest impact on me. He was a great lecturer whose passion for accounting was contagious and his ability to break down complex concepts into easily understandable lessons was truly remarkable. Prof Iwok’s mentorship not only honed my technical skills but also instilled in me a strong work ethic and attention to detail, qualities that have served me well in my professional journey.”

With over three decades of professional experience, Pastor Andrew-Essien has navigated the complexities of accounting, finance, and public service with remarkable distinction. His early career was marked by a successful stint as a lecturer at Akwa Ibom State Polytechnic, Ikot Osurua, where he also served as Head of the Accountancy Department. His expertise was soon sought after by various polytechnics, and he served as an external assessor, while also contributing to the National Board of Technical Education as a resource person. A defining moment in Pastor Andrew-Essien’s career came in 2015 when his expertise and reputation caught the attention of the Akwa Ibom State Government. Recognizing his exceptional skills and experience, the then Governor appointed him as Special Assistant to the Governor on Due Process. This marked the beginning of a remarkable journey in public service, one that would see him ascend through the ranks with distinction. He went on to serve as Director of Accounts in the Office of the Accountant General, where he demonstrated his mastery of financial management and leadership. His impressive tenure in this role led to his appointment as Acting Accountant General, a position that further showcased his capabilities. Ultimately, his dedication, expertise, and unwavering commitment to excellence earned him the esteemed position of Substantive Accountant General, a role he has held with distinction since August 2017.

As a shining ambassador of the University of Calabar, his achievements have become a roadmap for many aspiring professionals. His commitment to upholding the highest standards of accounting and financial management is evident in his impressive array of professional affiliations. As a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) and the Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN), Pastor Andrew-Essien has consistently demonstrated his passion for distinction, accountability and good governance. Throughout his illustrious career, Pastor Andrew-Essien has held various leadership roles that have enabled him to shape the accounting profession and mentor future leaders.

He has served as Chairman of ICAN’s Uyo and District Society, Treasurer of the ICAN Eastern Districts Conference, and Member of the ICAN-ATSWA Committee. Hiscontributions to the development of the profession have been significant, and his influence extends beyond the realm of finance to inspire a new generation of leaders. As a respected figure in his field, the outcomes of his professional
engagements continue to inspire and motivate others to strive for excellence. A hallmark of his tenure as Accountant General of Akwa Ibom State is the groundbreaking implementation of the International Public Sector Accounting Standards (IPSAS) Accrual Basis in 2021. By embracing this globally recognized accounting standard, the state has catapulted itself to the forefront of fiscal transparency and accountability. The IPSAS adoption has yielded a treasure trove of benefits, including timely and accurate financial reporting, enhanced fiscal discipline and a clearer picture of the state’s financial performance for stakeholders. Under his visionary leadership, the Office of the Accountant General has also pioneered innovative payroll management solutions, leveraging biometric verification and Bank Verification Number (BVN) integration to eliminate ghost workers and unlock significant cost savings. Furthermore, his commitment to the welfare of retirees has been exemplified by the prioritization of gratuity and pension payments, ensuring that monthly pensions are up- to-date and providing a lifeline to those who have served the state with dedication.

Also, his Office’s collaboration with the USAID State2State Activity has yielded critical documents, including the
Yearly Cash Plan, Budget Profiling Reports, and Review of Finance Law. These reforms have significantly
improved the state’s fiscal management, enabling it to respond effectively to emerging challenges. His office has
also upgraded computerized accounting software, deploying the Sage X3 ERP System for IPSAS Accrual
Accounting. This technological advancement has enhanced the efficiency and accuracy of financial reporting,
positioning Akwa Ibom State as a model for other states in Nigeria, and this fusion of financial prudence and
compassion has earned Pastor Andrew-Essien widespread recognition and admiration.
A visionary’s accolades are often a testament to their remarkable achievements, and Pastor Uwem Andrew-Essien’s
collection of prestigious awards is no exception. His impressive array of honors includes being named Most
Outstanding Accountant General by the National Productivity Centre, a distinction that underscores his exceptional
leadership in financial management. The House of Representatives Committee on Governmental Affairs has also
recognized his outstanding contributions, presenting him with the Outstanding Civil Service Performance Merit
Award. Furthermore, the Association of Professional Bodies of Nigeria has bestowed upon him the Transparency
Award in Financial Management and Reporting, his commitment to selfless service has also earned him an
Excellence Award from the Association of Senior Civil Servants of Nigeria and he has been distinguished as a
Fellow of Akwa Ibom State Polytechnic. These accolades collectively paint a portrait of a dedicated public servant
who has consistently demonstrated a passion for excellence and a commitment to making a positive impact.
Beyond his technical expertise, Pastor Andrew-Essien is admired for his strong character and unwavering
commitment to due process. Those who have benefited from his competence and attention to detail attribute his
success to his strong moral compass, shaped by his faith and cultural heritage. As a devout Christian and Pastor of
the Living Faith Church (Winners Chapel), he has not compromised his deep connection to his socio-cultural
environment as a member of Mboho Mkparawa Ibibio. This unique blend of spiritual and cultural values has, in fact,
contributed to his achievements, earning him widespread respect and admiration.

Why universities must push for new tax ordinances for the education sector in Nigeria, by Ekekwe
Savvy, unassuming and highly cerebral, Prof. Ndubuisi Ekekwe, the Chief Executive Officer, FASMICRO
Group, started his academic pursuit from the Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO) Nigeria, where he
graduated as his class best student with Electrical & Electronics Engineering.
With two doctoral and four Master’s Degrees including a Ph.D in Electrical & Computer Engineering from the
Johns Hopkins University, USA and an MBA from the University of Calabar, Nigeria, as well as a dint of hard
work, Dr. Ekekwe has carved a niche for himself in the Semiconductors Industry, globally.
A United States’ Semiconductor Industry veteran, Dr. Ekekwe’s work experiences include Diamond Bank, Analog
Devices Corp and the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC). In Analog Devices, he worked in the
team that designed a generation accelerometer for the iPhone, and he created the company’s first wafer level chip
scale package for inertial sensor. He invented and patented a robotic system which the US Government acquired
assignee rights.
A recipient of IGI Global “Book of the Year” award, a TED Fellow, IBM Global Entrepreneur and World Economic
Forum Young Global Leader, Prof. Ekekwe has held professorships in Carnegie Mellon University and Babcock
University, Ilisan-Remo, Nigeria, and served in the United States National Science Foundation Committee.
Since 2009, the founder of Tekedia Capital, and Chairman of Fasmicro – Intel Corp’s only Africa certified and
authorized programmable microprocessor partner has been writing in the Harvard Business Review. He was
recognized by The Guardian as one of the 60 Nigerians Making “Nigerian Lives Matter” – a 60th Independence Day
Special Edition.
As one of one of the “Fifty Most Distinguished Alumni Of University of Calabar With Impactful Contribution
To National Development”, by The Guardian, Prof. Ndubuisi Ekekwe explained that although he started his
career in the Nigerian Banking Sector after his Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical & Electronics Engineering from
FUTO, he strove to understand business management. Thus, he was inspired to study at the University of Calabar
(UNICAL) because of the component of strategy in the institution’s programme.
Describing his experience at the University of Calabar and how it has shaped his worldview, life and career journey,
as well as the impact on his day-to-day activities, especially as the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of
FASMICRO Group, the iPhone generation accelerometer co-designer said “UNICAL helped me to understand the
foundational importance of the business model in the market. They had a great component on business strategy
within the MBA programme and I picked critical knowledge systems from the faculty. Importantly, in all we do in
business, the business model is supreme. In our firm, we continue to invent and evolve our business models to
remain a category-king company. Today, we are Africa’s only Intel Corp programmable microprocessor knowledge
partner, and we have subsidiaries in investing and education.
While speaking on the nexus between the strategic corporate vision of FASMICRO Group and the milestones that
the organisation has accomplished in recent years, earning the trust of both customers and shareholders, Prof.
Ekekwe disclosed that there is a functional structure. In his words, “We have within our Group, the electronics
business and also Tekedia Capital which is the most active early-stage investor out of Africa. We invest in about 30
to 40 companies yearly across industries and geographies. More so, Tekedia Institute which operates Tekedia Mini-
MBA welcomes more students yearly than any university in Africa in the area of business education.
“Currently, the Institute has partnerships with many African Universities. Our core product is knowledge, and that
manifests as products and services for our customers who are delighted in what we do.”
Reminiscing what he considered as the most pleasant and most trying moment in his days in UNICAL, the award-
winning Electronics Engineer noted that “My UNICAL experience was amazing; everything was super-pleasant.
But I cannot forget in a hurry the risk I took for my last exam. I was scheduled to work at night in the bank’s IT
organisation in Lagos, and I had an exam in Calabar between 12 noon and 3pm. Yet, I left Lagos early in the
morning, took the exam, flew back to Lagos and went to work. If something had gone wrong, it would have been a
problem at work.”
As one of the most distinguished Malabites, he would like to see the institution improve in all fronts, sustain its
position as a leading tertiary institution and elevate impact on Nigeria’s socio-economic development. According to
him, “I want universities in Nigeria to own assets. I hope UNICAL can pioneer that. Imagine if they can invest 15%
of their operating budget by negotiating with the Federal Government, the school will have more resources to
educate the future. More so, UNICAL and other universities must push for new tax ordinances for the education
sector in Nigeria. If that is done, donating or partnering with schools will become strategic instead of being an
expense, as it is the case within the current Nigerian tax structure.”
While responding to what his views are concerning why tertiary institutions need to incorporate entrepreneurial
education into their curriculum and what other qualities that are required for young entrepreneurs to make it to the
top in Nigeria, the renowned IT guru stressed that “Nations rise when great entrepreneurs emerge. In Nigeria, there
are great entrepreneurs already. What we need is an enabling environment. Nations build platforms like post offices,
roads, electricity, security, stable currency, amongst others, and entrepreneurs are expected to plant companies on
them. Our universities have done fairly well but Nigeria has not provided the platforms for the graduates to
execute.”

CHRISTIANA IMEH AMIDA, PhD: Quintessential Amazon, Innovative Real Estate Expert, Ast ute
Technocrat, Empathetic Philanthropist, Promoting Women’s Health In Nigeria
For Nigeria to achieve the expected growth and development of real estate in the comity of nations, seasoned
professionals and committed real estate experts like Dr. Christiana Imeh Amida, the Executive Director, Lekki
Gardens Estate Limited remains one of those that the country looks up to.
Over the years, Dr. Christie Amida has distinguished herself not only as an articulated economist, an accomplished
real estate expert, innovative technocrat and strategic business executive but has also demonstrated a high degree of
integrity and philanthropic gestures in Nigeria. She is the Executive Director, in charge of the Directorate of
Revenue, Relationships and Communications at Lekki Gardens Estate Limited – a leading real estate property
investment and development company with over 100 real estate development and projects and 15,000 multi-
dimensional community ecosystems.
Christiana Amida is a dynamic real estate hotshot, a venture builder, result oriented executive and a philanthropist
with over seventeen years of cognate experience in the real estate development, business engineering and human
capital development.
As a lover and supporter of education, Christie Amida is a very vast scholar and luminary, she holds a B.Sc degree
in Economics from the prestigious University of Calabar, Master’s degree in International Law and Diplomacy from
the University of Lagos and a PhD in Real Estate Management and Leadership from the European American
University. She also holds certification in real estate management from Harvard Business School, Boston,
Massachusetts.
Christie Amida, a committed professional is known as a strategic and empathetic leader, an energetic producer with
high dose of mental toughness to tackle uphill business situations in real estate management. Undoubtedly, Christie
Amida is a dynamic and result oriented technocrat with capability to translate vision into reality. She is also
synonymous with innovativeness, value creation and professionalism. Indeed, she is not one of those who got to
where they are by whom they knew but her journey to the top of her profession has been the product of
commitment, discipline, hardwork, dedication, integrity, creativity and tenacity.
It is worthy of note to mention that when she is not in the boardroom, Christie is busy powering change across her
areas of interest, including education, poverty reduction, climate change, space décor and fashion. Indeed, her
foundation “Foundation De Christie” continues to cater for women’s health in various states in Nigeria, through
outreach programmes with over 10,000 women as beneficiaries of hygiene and sanitary care items and education.
In fact, with her articulated vision “To empower million Nigerians with peace of mind in property investments and
also achieve a legacy of transforming the lives of ten million African women and girls through hygiene and wellness
solutions and nurturing her family and affiliates”.
Her mission is centred around “empowering others to unleash greatness by igniting self-worth, catalyzing dreams
and fuelling their journey with unrelenting passion and energy”.
Based on the vision and mission statements, Christie Amida has put in place policies and strategies to achieve this
health oriented programmes. In fact, she is popularly referred to as “ENERGY GODESS” by her family and friends
in recognition of her determination, commitment, achievements and contributions to women’s health and wellness.
Finally, it is needful to state that Christie Amida whose achievements, contributions and legacies are spotlighted
above speak louder than words, remains a lady of integrity, an amazon, a catalyst of economic development, real
estate expert, a visionary leader, an agent of positive change, a rare gem, a strategic business administrator and a
worthy ambassador of Nigeria and a technocrat of international repute. Her innovativeness, philanthropic,
mentorship, as well as her many insightful solutions to the plight of women and Nigerians continue to stand her out
among her contemporaries.
Specifically, as the University of Calabar celebrates her Golden Anniversary, Christie Amida has proved to all and
sundry that she is a distinguished alumnus and a worthy ambassador of this great and prestigious institution.