Throughout history, the central role played by women has ensured the stability, progress and long-term development of nations. In the 21st century, the issues of gender balance and the need to accord women equal opportunities and allow them achieve their full potential in society have gained more momentum globally. While some progress has been made to overcome impediments to their chances of contributing to development, a lot still needs to be done in the area of decision-making. According to the United Nations (UN), investing in women and respecting their rights is the surest way to uplift communities, organisations and countries, as well as achieving the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
Most importantly, the global body made its submission to the effect that ‘Balance’ is not a women’s issue, but rather a business issue. The race is on for gender-balanced boardrooms, gender-balanced government, gender-balanced media coverage, gender-balanced employment opportunities, gender-balanced wealth creation, and gender-balanced sports activities, amongst others.
In this special focus, The Guardian is showcasing some Outstanding and Impactful Women in Nigeria, featuring: Mojoyinoluwa Dekalu-Thomas , MD/CEO, NELMCO, Aisha Maina, Managing Director, Aquarian Consult Limited,Bolanle Onotu, MD/CEO, Norrenberger Pensions Limited, Sarah Ajose-Adeogun, Managing Partner, Teasoo Consulting, Amb. Munachi Arinze, CEO, Empire Homes Realty Limited, Dr. Ngozi Ogwo, Managing Partner/CEO, Grant Thornton Nigeria, Joy Tim Ayoola, Group Head, Samsung Nigeria, Pastor Dr. ChiomaI bezim, Founder/President, Singles & Married International Outreach, Dr. Yinka Opeke, CEO, Smart Energies, Ayoola Olusunmnola, COO, Stren&Blan Partners, HRH Khadijat Abdulkadir, Founder/CEO, INGRYD Academy, Bisola Borha, Founder/CEO, Trendy Bee Elite Events and Capt Imoleayo Adebule, Director, Flight Operations, Aero Contractors Company Nigeria Ltd. Aisha Maina, Managing Director, Aquarian Consult Limited
Dr.Ngozi Ogwo: Engineering Growth with Competence and Purpose
Dr. Ngozi Angela Ogwo’s leadership philosophy is built on a foundation of purpose, passion, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. As the Managing Partner/CEO of Grant Thornton Nigeria, she has consistently demonstrated a commitment to driving growth, fostering innovation and empowering women in business.
With a career spanning over 38 years, she has established herself as a trailblazer, exemplifying strategic leadership, profound experience and unshakeable commitment to purpose. Her expertise in governance, ethical leadership and building systems that deliver sustainable value has earned her a reputation as a leader who drives meaningful change. Recognized by The Guardian as one of Nigeria’s Outstanding and Impactful Women, her journey is a shining example of her unwavering dedication to creating lasting impact.
Can you tell us about your professional background?
I am the Managing Partner/CEO of Grant Thornton Nigeria, with over 38 years of experience spanning audit, banking, advisory services, and strategic leadership across sectors in Nigeria and abroad. I’ve served on the Board of Governors of Grant Thornton International and contributed to its Innovation, Technology, and Risk Management Committees.
Before becoming CEO, I led the audit and advisory divisions, overseeing business operations, client engagement, and regulatory compliance. My passion lies in governance, ethical leadership, and building systems that deliver sustainable value. Today, I lead a firm committed to quality, innovation, and impact – not just for clients, but for the broader community.
I hold an MBA in Banking and Finance (Nigeria), a PhD in Finance (USA), and am a Chartered Accountant, fellow of ICAN and CITN, a licensed capital market consultant, and a certified forensic accountant. I’m also a certified coach by the European Mentoring & Coaching Council and an alumna of Saïd Business School, University of Oxford.
Beyond my professional roles, I serve on boards and committees of various organizations, present papers locally and internationally, and actively engage in volunteer work, especially for women in the church and community. I’m married and blessed with three children.
What drives your professional passion and success?
What drives me is purpose. I believe in building a transparent, ethical, and inclusive business environment. At Grant Thornton, we’re not just delivering numbers, we’re building trust and enabling growth.
Three key factors have shaped my journey: clarity of vision, the power of people, and unwavering values. I’ve always had a clear direction and remained focused, even in uncertain times. The accounting profession demands adaptability and courage, and I’ve embraced both, striving to make tough but necessary decisions.
I’m deeply people oriented. Empowering teams to chart their own paths boosts morale and retention. Leadership, to me, is about creating environments where others thrive.
My compass has always been integrity, excellence, and empathy. Mentorship, especially for women, is close to my heart. I believe in lifting others as we rise. Ultimately, I’m driven by the conviction that we’re building a legacy – one that transcends financial success to create lasting impact. My trust in God is the cornerstone of my journey.
How do you balance personal and professional life?
Balance is about intentionality. While I can’t control every demand, I prioritize what matters most. As CEO, the pressures are constant, but clarity of priorities helps me show up fully – both at work and at home.
I rely on structure, discipline, and a strong support system. Delegation and team empowerment are key – whether at work, home, or in the community. Success is always a collective effort.
I also prioritize renewal – moments of prayer and reflection, quiet time with family, or simply unplugging. These restore my energy and clarity. Anchored in my faith and values, I make daily choices that reflect what truly matters. As Nicky Clinch aptly expressed, balance is not a fixed destination; it’s a continuous journey which I make a day at a time.
What challenges have you faced as a woman in leadership, and how have you overcome them?
I learned early that gender does not define capability. Leadership as a woman comes with challenges – bias, underestimation, and societal expectations. I’ve consistently proven my place through value, confidence, and results.
One of the toughest challenges has been managing perception – leading with strength without being labeled too assertive and showing compassion without being seen as soft. I’ve embraced authenticity and results-driven leadership.
Balancing multiple roles – leader, mother, wife, mentor, et cetera; hasn’t always been smooth. But I’ve learned that true balance comes from alignment, not equal distribution. Boundaries, support, and grace have helped me grow. Resilience, continuous learning, and the support of mentors and trailblazers have been vital. I’m committed to paying it forward—mentoring others and creating spaces where women can lead boldly. “When you empower a woman to run, she flies!” – Ngozi Ogwo
Challenges have become steppingstones. Each one has strengthened my resolve to succeed and to keep the door open for others. True leadership isn’t just about breaking ceilings – it’s about holding the ladder for others to climb.
What initiatives has Grant Thornton Nigeria implemented to promote gender diversity and inclusion?
At Grant Thornton Nigeria, gender diversity and inclusion are strategic imperatives. We’re committed to closing the gender gap through bold recruitment, workforce development, and impactful CSR and ESG initiatives.
We focus on inclusion; ensuring women have equal access to opportunities and resources. Our programs include financial literacy for female entrepreneurs, mentorship, leadership development, and partnerships with professional bodies. We also promote inclusive recruitment and flexible work policies. We’re building systems that sustain equity and belonging. Empowering women isn’t just social justice; it’s an economic priority. Guided by global insights and local campaigns, we ensure women are not just present, they’re prepared to lead.
What role do women play in Nigeria’s economic development, and how can their participation be harnessed?
Women are vital to Nigeria’s economic development – not just as contributors, but as drivers of innovation and resilience. Yet they remain underutilized in key sectors.
To unlock sustainable growth, we must invest in policies and systems that amplify women’s participation. Equitable access to education, finance, and leadership, supported by inclusive policies and mentorship, can accelerate national progress.
Empowered women lead to resilient, inclusive, and innovative economies. They are changemakers and architects of transformation. Harnessing their potential is key to building a sustainable Nigeria.
What message would you share with girls and women in Nigeria?
To the vibrant girls and remarkable women shaping Nigeria’s future:
Your growth fuels national progress. Invest in your skills, embrace learning, and break barriers. Surround yourself with those who uplift and challenge you. As Michelle Obama reminds us, “There is no limit to what we, as women, can accomplish;” and in the words of Ntozake Shange, “Where there is a woman, there is magic.”
Use your voice to shape conversations and challenge norms. Let gender be your strength, not a limitation. Empathy is a leadership asset, not a weakness – it drives meaningful change. “Don’t let anyone rob you of your imagination, your creativity, or your curiosity.” – Mae Jemison.
Push boundaries and strive for excellence. Lift others as you rise. Growth requires stepping outside your comfort zone and asking for help. Be bold, clear, and unapologetically yourself.
Build networks. Share knowledge. Support one another. Together, we can create a Nigeria where women lead boldly across every sector. Stay anchored in your values, trust in God, and let His grace empower you for every future conquest.
MOJOYINOLUWA DEKALU-THOMAS: Development-Focused Strategist Driving Financial Stability in Nigeria’s Power Sector
When purpose is lost, even the most diligent efforts can feel hollow, a reality starkly illustrated by the contrast with Mojoyinoluwa Dekalu-Thomas’ remarkable career trajectory. As the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigeria Electricity Liability Management Company (NELMCO), she exemplifies the power of visionary thinking, where strength and kindness converge to drive transformative success. With a career spanning different sectors, she has honed her ability to balance assertiveness with empathy, and this has made it easy for her to lead with confidence and integrity.
Mojoyinoluwa Dekalu-Thomas’ global footprint in leadership is underscored by her extensive experience in executive management roles across the UK, Germany, Belgium, South Africa, and Nigeria. Over 22 years, she has navigated complex business landscapes, leveraging her expertise to drive growth and innovation in diverse industries, including legal, oil and gas, telecommunications, financial services, and technology. With a proven track record of strategic leadership, she brings a wealth of knowledge and insight to NELMCO, driving meaningful change and achieving organizational goals that benefit the nation. Her appointment, approved by President Bola Tinubu for a four-year term, is a validation of her exceptional leadership skills and strategic vision.
With an academic foundation in law and international relations, Mojoyinoluwa has built a remarkable career that showcases her ability to drive organizational success through strategic leadership and expertise. Her impressive skill set includes strategy development and implementation, programme and project management, risk management, stakeholder and third-party management, budget forecasting, business development, resource management, process development, and financial analysis. This broad range of expertise has equipped her to navigate complex business environments and deliver results-driven solutions.
Before assuming her current role, Mojoyinoluwa played a pivotal role in NELMCO’s management team, bringing her wealth of experience to the table. Prior to joining NELMCO, she held senior management positions in both national and multinational companies, where she honed her skills in high-level programme and project management. In Europe, she successfully managed and implemented multi-million Euro infrastructure development projects in financial services and technology companies, showcasing her ability to handle large-scale initiatives.
Her experience in Africa is equally impressive, with roles that span company secretarial duties, legal services, operations, strategy development, and programme direction across various industries. Mojoyinoluwa’s versatility and adaptability have been key to her success, allowing her to thrive in diverse business environments and drive growth and innovation. Today, she is well-positioned to leverage her expertise to propel NELMCO to new heights, harnessing her unique blend of skills and experience to tackle some of the challenges of Nigeria’s electricity sector and drive meaningful impact.
Under the Electricity Power Sector Reform (ESPR) Act of 2005 and the amended Electricity Act of 2023, NELMCO is tasked with managing liabilities that stemmed from PHCN’s operations prior to privatization, overseeing tariff shortfalls from 2015 to 2020, and handling other post-privatization obligations as directed by the National Council on Privatization (NCP).
Mojoyinoluwa Dekalu-Thomas’s appointment as Managing Director and CEO of NELMCO marks a significant milestone in the company’s journey to resolve liquidity challenges in Nigeria’s electricity sector. With her extensive experience in strategic leadership and expertise, she has propelled NELMCO to new heights, driving the company’s mission to achieve its core objectives. These objectives include liability management, asset management, settlement of agreements, and facilitating financial sustainability, all aimed at creating a stable and sustainable power sector.
Under her leadership, NELMCO’s management team has demonstrated remarkable determination and pragmatism in tackling the complexities of the electricity sector. They have successfully administered and resolved stranded PHCN debts, managed non-core assets, and settled Power Purchase Agreement obligations, thereby fostering an environment conducive to investment and growth in the power sector. Notably, NELMCO has settled over N1.3 trillion in liabilities out of a total of N2.3 trillion inherited, showcasing the company’s effectiveness in easing the sector’s financial burden.
Mojoyinoluwa’s expertise in strategy development, programme management and risk management has been instrumental in driving NELMCO’s success. Her leadership has enabled the company to navigate the complexities of the NESI, positioning it as a major force in stabilizing the sector. The company’s expanded role in managing post-privatization liabilities has further solidified its critical function in ensuring operational efficiency and long-term sustainability in the sector.
Under her transformative leadership, NELMCO is making significant strides in navigating the complexities of Nigeria’s electricity sector, driving the company’s mission to resolve liquidity issues and ensure financial stability. With her team, she is tackling the challenges of managing post-privatization liabilities head-on, working tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome for the Nigeria Electricity Supply Industry (NESI). NELMCO’s ultimate objective is clear: to efficiently manage and settle all post-privatization liabilities, thereby paving the way for a more sustainable and efficient power sector.
As a dynamic professional with patriotic vision, Mojoyinoluwa Dekalu-Thomas is committed to contributing to the success of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, driving financial stability and sustainability in Nigeria’s power sector – a crucial element in the administration’s vision for a revitalized economy, with her leadership positioning NELMCO to play a pivotal role in shaping the nation’s economic future
Sarah Ajose-Adeogun: Pioneering Transformation and Sustainable Growth Across Africa through Teasoo Consulting’s Unique Solutions
In the dynamic landscape of African leadership, few names resonate with the visionary clarity, execution discipline and stakeholder empathy as profoundly as Sarah Esangbedo Ajose-Adeogun. As the Managing Partner of Teasoo Consulting, her journey is not just a career path but a testament to purpose-driven leadership, demonstrating how unwavering commitment can drive lasting change in private enterprise, public service and social impact.
Her illustrious professional background began at Shell Petroleum Development Company where she dedicated two decades to various leadership capacities, culminating in her pivotal role as Community Content Manager. This foundational experience in a multinational corporation laid the groundwork for her deep understanding of complex operational environments and the critical importance of stakeholder engagement. Following her distinguished tenure at Shell, she transitioned into public service, embracing the challenge as the Special Adviser to the Edo State Government on Strategy, Policy, Projects and Performance Management. In this capacity, her strategic acumen was instrumental in embedding a culture of performance and accountability within governance, a crucial step towards effective public administration. Today, she channels her extensive experience and insights as the Managing Partner of Teasoo Consulting, a leading strategy and ESG advisory firm. Under her stewardship, the reputable firm has pioneered Africa’s first Africentric ESG ranking platform and oversees one of the continent’s most extensive reforestation initiatives, showcasing her profound commitment to sustainability and localized solutions.
At the heart of Ajose-Adeogun’s remarkable success are three consistently applied key principles: visionary clarity, execution discipline and stakeholder empathy. These values have served as her compass, enabling her to deftly navigate intricate challenges, inspire diverse teams, and instigate enduring change, whether in corporate boardrooms or within underserved communities. Her visionary clarity allows her to articulate a compelling future, providing a clear direction even amidst complexity. This vision is then brought to life through rigorous execution discipline, ensuring that strategic plans are not merely concepts but are translated into tangible results. Complementing these is stakeholder empathy, a principle that underscores her collaborative approach, fostering understanding and aligning diverse interests towards common goals.
Reflecting on her expansive career, the dynamic woman of substance highlights several impactful lessons that have profoundly shaped her distinctive leadership style and decision-making approach. Paramount among these is the realization that leadership is about service, not control. Early in her career, she recognized that effective leaders transcend mere directive authority; they are fundamentally bridge-builders. This profound insight has cultivated a collaborative leadership style characterized by active listening, genuine inclusion and a dedicated focus on empowering individuals to reach their full potential.
Her tenure in government further solidified her conviction in the power of data-driven decision-making. Navigating competing political and policy interests demanded a reliance on empirical evidence, robust stakeholder alignment and the courage to remain steadfastly committed to long-term outcomes, even when confronted with immediate pressures. Ultimately, her decisions are anchored in unwavering principles of impact, integrity, and purpose, ensuring that her focus remains squarely on creating systems that uplift both people and the planet.
In a demanding career that operates at both strategic and operational levels, Ajose-Adeogun has mastered the art of managing competing demands while upholding impeccable professional standards. For her, balance is not about equitably dividing time but about being deeply present and intentional in every space. Her strategy involves creating clear structures, defining boundaries, and prioritizing what holds the most significance, coupled with the ability to delegate effectively and without guilt. Faith serves as her anchor, providing a vital grounding force when the immense demands of leadership threaten to overwhelm. She strategically invests in robust systems, encompassing highly capable teams and advanced digital tools, which ingeniously free up her time for high-value work and crucially, for her family.
Recognizing the critical importance of personal well-being, she consciously practices rest, reflection and renewal, understanding that a leader who is burnt-out is inherently disconnected. Most importantly, she cultivates a supportive environment, surrounding herself with individuals who share her vision, both within her professional sphere and in her personal life. This shared commitment empowers her to lead with formidable strength while remaining steadfastly grounded in her personal values.
As a prominent woman in a leadership position, Ajose-Adeogun has candidly faced numerous challenges, ranging from pervasive unconscious bias and systemic gatekeeping to the inherent pressure of reconciling ambition with societal expectations. Like many women, she has frequently found herself in situations where she had to prove her competence in rooms where assumptions about her capability came before her credentials. In overcoming these obstacles, she consistently leaned into excellence, emotional intelligence and the invaluable support of mentorship. Her approach has been to show up authentically, even when it required courage and discomfort. Actively seeking out mentors and sponsors has been a cornerstone of her journey, a role she now passionately embraces for others. Crucially, her success in overcoming these challenges stems not from resisting her identity as a woman, but from embracing it as a source of strength.
Teasoo Consulting’s reputation for delivering exceptional business solutions is a testament to its founder’s visionary leadership. At the heart of its success lies an unwavering commitment to excellence, driven by three key factors: an Africentric approach, robust execution, and deep sectoral expertise. By designing, implementing, and evaluating bespoke solutions, Teasoo ensures that its clients emerge stronger and more resilient. Whether it’s ESG strategy or performance management, every project is carefully crafted to drive tangible results.
What sets Teasoo apart is its dedication to contextualizing global best practices for African realities. This approach enables the firm to develop solutions that are not only effective but also deeply relevant to the continent’s unique challenges and opportunities. The company’s operations are guided by unwavering integrity, with client impact at the forefront of every decision. The firm invests heavily in its people, fostering a culture of continuous learning and innovation. Strategic partnerships and agile governance mechanisms ensure that Teasoo remains nimble and responsive to the evolving needs of its clients.
Beyond its business operations, Teasoo is committed to empowering the next generation of leaders, particularly women. Through initiatives like “Catch Them Young” and partnerships with organizations such as the Esangbedo Humanitarian Foundation, it has equipped over 7,500 secondary school students with the tools and confidence to make informed life choices. The firm also supports higher education through scholarships for outstanding students, reinforcing the value of academic excellence. By integrating a gender lens into its ESG strategy, Teasoo encourages organizations to prioritize not just representation but also equitable power dynamics and pay parity, recognizing that true inclusion is a systemic and measurable endeavor.
Ajose-Adeogun believes that Nigerian women are a hidden asset, bursting with potential that can drive innovation, build resilience, and stabilize communities. To unlock this potential, she advocates for a triple-pronged approach: fair financial systems that give women a level playing field, encouraging girls to pursue STEM fields, and revamping workplace policies to support women juggling careers and caregiving responsibilities. By doing so, women can take on leadership roles in boardrooms, parliaments, and investment committees, bringing a fresh perspective and a more inclusive approach to decision-making.
When women lead, they bring a unique blend of empathy, creativity and problem-solving skills that can foster economic growth that’s not just robust but also equitable and sustainable. According to her, investing in women’s empowerment is not just a noble cause; it’s a shrewd business move that can yield significant returns for Nigeria’s economy and society. By tapping into the talents and energies of half its population, Nigeria can unlock a brighter future for all, where everyone has the chance to thrive and contribute to the country’s growth and prosperity.
Sarah Ajose-Adeogun’s words to Nigerian girls and women are a potent reminder of their inner strength: “Don’t let your limitations define you; instead, expand your capacity to match your dreams.” She champions a mindset of relentless growth, urging them to stay curious, lead with purpose, and surround themselves with people who challenge and inspire them. Her advice is to break barriers not with anger, but with intelligence and determination. For her, every woman is a catalyst for change, and by investing in themselves and leading with vision and values, they can drive Nigeria’s transformation from the ground up.
Driving Double-Digit Growth: Joy Tim Ayoola’s Vision for Samsung Nigeria
Samsung Nigeria stands as a pivotal force in the nation’s communication and technology sector, demonstrating strong leadership, innovative strategies, and an unwavering commitment to its consumers. At the helm is Joy Tim Ayoola, the Group Head of Samsung Nigeria, whose extensive professional background has been instrumental in navigating market complexities and driving significant growth.
A Leader Forged in Experience: Joy Tim Ayoola’s Journey
Joy Tim Ayoola’s professional journey is described as a fulfilling blend of sales, marketing, and leadership experience. Her academic foundation includes a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science from Madonna University and a Master’s degree in Information Technology from the University of Lagos. Further cementing her leadership capabilities, she obtained a certified background in Organizational Leadership from the University of Samsung Electronics, focusing on strategy, influence, and execution.
Her career trajectory took a significant turn at Unilever Nigeria, where she dedicated over a decade to various roles, including sales, product category forecasting, customer marketing, and operations. Following her tenure at Unilever, she joined SC Johnson as the Customer Marketing Manager for West Africa, where she achieved notable success in projecting the company’s brand as the leading and preferred pesticide products.
In 2021, Joy Tim Ayoola brought her wealth of experience to Samsung, initially as the Head of Retail. In this role, she rapidly expanded Samsung’s presence by establishing new retail stores across Nigeria within a mere seven months. Her strategic efforts also led to gaining a substantial amount of capital from parallel import partners for the purchase of Samsung’s genuine in-country products in Northern Nigeria. Throughout her career, Ayoola has encountered various challenges, particularly in navigating the ever-changing landscape of the mobile industry and overcoming sales and marketing obstacles. However, she emphasizes the importance of resilience, adaptability, and a relentless pursuit of excellence, qualities that fuel her ambition for growth and her passion for problem-solving. She also takes pride in impacting the lives of those in need.
Driving Unprecedented Business Growth and Strategic Partnerships
Under Joy Tim Ayoola’s visionary leadership, Samsung Nigeria has witnessed significant growth over the last couple of years. A key strategy attributing to this expansion has been the appointment of local distributors across Nigeria to expand reach in upcountry territories. This localized approach has been crucial in catering to the diverse needs of consumers beyond major urban centers, ensuring that Samsung products are readily available throughout the nation.
Ayoola has also played a key role in forging impactful partnerships that have democratized access to Samsung devices. Notable among these initiatives is the device financing facility established with Access Bank & SLOT Systems LTD, M-KOPA, and WATU. These collaborations have been instrumental in making Samsung’s innovative devices more affordable and accessible to a broader segment of the Nigerian population, directly addressing a major consumer concern.
Her outstanding performance and undeniable impact in the industry have not gone unnoticed. Joy Tim Ayoola was deservingly honored with The Africa Sales Leadership Award in the Mobile & Electronic Devices category at the 12th Marketing World Awards held in Nairobi, Kenya. This prestigious award underscores her strategic prowess and her ability to drive market leadership in a highly competitive sector. Further cementing Samsung Nigeria’s position as a market leader, the company itself received the 2024 Samsung Global Award, recognized as the Global employees’ choice based on strategic projects that resulted in a double-digit market share. This global recognition highlights the effectiveness of the initiatives championed by Ayoola and her team, signifying a robust and successful operational model.
Despite these monumental achievements, Ayoola openly acknowledges the challenges inherent in her role, including navigating the ever-changing landscape of the mobile industry and overcoming obstacles in sales and marketing. However, these hurdles have only served to reinforce her core values: “I’ve learned the importance of resilience, adaptability, and a relentless pursuit of excellence,” she states, adding that her “strong passion for problem-solving fuels [her] ambition for growth”. This philosophy not only guides her professional endeavors but also drives her commitment to positively impacting the lives of those in need.
Innovation Rooted in Consumer Needs: A Hallmark of Samsung Nigeria
A cornerstone of Samsung Nigeria’s strength under Joy Tim Ayoola’s leadership is its unwavering commitment to driving innovation through meticulous analysis of consumer feedback and directly incorporating this insight into product improvements. This consumer-centric approach ensures that product development is not merely about technological advancement but about meeting tangible market needs.
In direct response to the growing demand for affordable devices in Nigeria, Samsung introduced the A05, A06, and A07 series, which are described as Samsung’s most affordable devices to date. Yet, they integrate crucial technologies such as fingerprint recognition, water resistance, and robust data privacy features. To alleviate concerns about expensive screen repair costs, Samsung launched a campaign promoting Samsung Care+. This is an insurance program designed to cover over 90% of repair costs, offering significant peace of mind to customers. For entry-level devices, the cost of repair has been drastically reduced to as low as N9,000.
These strategic initiatives underscore Samsung’s commitment to staying competitive while effectively meeting the evolving needs of Nigerian consumers.
Resilience in the Face of Economic Shifts: Adapting for Sustained Relevance
Nigeria’s economic landscape has undergone significant shifts, particularly with the removal of fuel subsidies and foreign exchange reforms. Samsung Nigeria, under Ayoola’s leadership, has demonstrated exemplary resilience and adaptability in navigating these challenges, ensuring sustained operational efficiency, market relevance, and customer engagement.
Key initiatives implemented to counter these economic pressures include a broadened distribution network, with a particular focus on upcountry areas. This expansion, facilitated through local distributors, ensures that products are readily accessible to a wider audience, directly catering to consumers’ needs regardless of their location. Furthermore, Samsung Nigeria has strengthened its physical presence within the country, increasing its store count by an impressive 15% this year alone. This strategic expansion underscores their commitment to direct engagement and market penetration.
Beyond sales, Samsung Nigeria is deeply committed to providing excellent after-sales support. The company offers premium service to customers in Lagos and Abuja, with concrete plans to open more service centers across the country. This focus on comprehensive post-purchase support builds lasting customer loyalty and trust, vital in a competitive market. Looking ahead, Samsung Nigeria is poised for continued success by continually monitoring market trends, consumer preferences, and economic indicators. This proactive and informed approach enables the company to adapt swiftly to Nigeria’s dynamic market conditions, consistently maintaining its commitment to customer satisfaction and operational excellence.
Building Unbreakable Trust through Security and After-Sales Support
In Nigeria’s business environment, where trust and transparency are paramount, Samsung places paramount importance on strong security and privacy, especially with the rapid advent of Artificial Intelligence (AI). The company believes that fostering and sustaining consumer trust and confidence in its brand is contingent upon robust data protection measures. To this end, Samsung has implemented several key measures. Samsung provides users with an intuitive dashboard that allows them to easily monitor and adjust security settings, empowering them to manage their privacy preferences effectively. Samsung Knox, a multi-layer security platform, is designed to safeguard critical data through secure hardware, real-time threat detection, and ecosystem-wide protection, ensuring a safe and reliable AI experience on Galaxy smartphones. The Knox Vault further secures personalized data directly on the device, ensuring user privacy. For cloud-based AI, input data is immediately deleted after output creation to guarantee privacy. Samsung smartphones offer advanced settings that allow users to disable online data processing for AI features, thereby maintaining control over their data. Furthermore, Galaxy devices are built for long-term security, receiving seven years of software and security updates.
Beyond robust security, Samsung Nigeria is dedicated to providing excellent after-sales support. The company currently offers premium service to customers in Lagos and Abuja, with strategic plans to open more service centers across the country.
Pioneering the Future with Hybrid AI
Samsung Nigeria’s core vision is fueled by continuous innovation, evolving technology, and the improvement of people’s lives. Consequently, every innovation is designed to be impactful to consumer experience and loyalty, always centering on their needs. The most impactful innovation that continues to shape consumer experience and loyalty is the Samsung Galaxy AI across its ecosystem. This innovation is crafted to be genuinely useful in the moments that matter most to people, enhancing daily experiences across communication, creativity, productivity, and privacy, all while ensuring user control. Samsung believes that AI should be a tool for empowerment, not dependency.
The company’s focus is on hybrid AI, which blends the speed and personalization of on-device processing with the power and reach of the cloud. This approach ensures that features like live translation, smart summarization, or photo editing operate quickly, respect user data, and feel intuitive rather than experimental. Significantly, Samsung is committed to keeping Galaxy AI inclusive by expanding language support, ensuring consistent experiences across devices, and offering meaningful updates to existing users. In a powerful testament to its dedication to Nigerian culture, Samsung has developed a device that speaks Nigeria’s three major languages: Hausa, Igbo, and Yoruba, thereby contributing to language preservation through technology.
Joy Tim Ayoola: A Beacon of Leadership for Samsung Nigeria
Joy Tim Ayoola’s tenure as Group Head of Samsung Nigeria is a clear illustration of how strategic leadership, coupled with a deep understanding of consumer needs and market dynamics, can drive monumental success. From expanding retail footprints and forging crucial partnerships to championing affordability, innovating with customer-centric services like Samsung Care+, and integrating groundbreaking AI that respects local culture, Samsung Nigeria under her guidance has not only navigated challenges but has consistently set new benchmarks in the industry. Her vision, resilience, and unwavering commitment to excellence continue to shape Samsung Nigeria’s trajectory, solidifying its position as a dominant and trusted brand in the hearts and homes of Nigerians.
Above and Beyond: Capt. Imoleayo Adebule’s Aviation Odyssey
“Courage is the first of human qualities because it is the quality which guarantees all others,” a profound observation by Winston Churchill that echoes deeply with Captain Imoleayo Adebule’s remarkable journey. As a force to be reckoned with in Nigeria’s aviation industry, she has defied conventions and soared to great heights, leveraging her courage and expertise to excel as Director of Flight Operations at Aero Contractors Company of Nigeria Limited. With a storied career spanning almost two decades, she has proven herself a master of her craft, skillfully navigating the skies and mentoring others along the way, inspiring a new generation of aviators.
As Director of Flight Operations, Captain Adebule spearheads a multifaceted approach, balancing the delivery of exceptional customer service with strategic oversight of Aero Contractors’ operational, commercial and financial performance. Her leadership extends to cultivating the company’s distinctive culture, renowned for providing invaluable experience for aspiring aviators. With a team of over 80 professionals, including flight crew members, operations officers and training personnel, she ensures seamless execution across all facets of flight operations. From directing the Operations Control Center to overseeing the development of operations manuals, her meticulous approach guarantees the highest standards of safety, efficiency and excellence, solidifying Aero Contractors’ position as a premier aviation outfit in Nigeria.
Captain Adebule’s ascent to Director of Flight Operations was a culmination of years of dedication and expertise. Before assuming her current role in April 2023, she served as Chief Pilot since 2018, leveraging her extensive experience to drive the airline’s operational excellence. Her earlier role as Flight Technical Officer was instrumental in establishing and maintaining the highest standards of airworthiness, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and manufacturer recommendations. Her innovative approach was evident in her leadership of the airline’s fuel efficiency program, which showcased her ability to drive strategic initiatives that positively impacted the airline’s bottom line. Additionally, her role as Internal Aviation Auditor since 2017 underscored her commitment to safety and quality, ensuring that Aero Contractors adhered to the highest standards of aviation excellence. With over 8,000 hours of flight experience, she had previously commanded the DHC8 100/200/300/400 and Boeing 737 CL/NG aircraft.
Her journey with Aero Contractors began in 2008, when she joined as a Co-Pilot. Over the years, she has played a pivotal role in repositioning the airline from a precarious financial situation to one of profitability and expansion. Her leadership and expertise have been instrumental in driving this transformation, and her dedication to the airline’s success is evident in her tireless efforts to maintain the highest standards of operational excellence.
Captain Adebule’s impact extends beyond her technical expertise. Her ability to inspire and motivate her team has been a key factor in Aero Contractors’ success. Her leadership style is characterized by a commitment to excellence, a passion for innovation, and a dedication to safety and quality.
Focused and ambitious, her educational background are equally remarkable. She completed her Commercial Pilot Course at the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology, Zaria, before earning her Airline Transport Pilot License at the prestigious Pan Am Flight Academy in Miami, Florida. Currently, she is pursuing a Post Graduate Diploma in Aviation Management at the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology, Zaria, and a Post Graduate Diploma of Advanced Studies (DAS) in Global Air Transport Management from IATA and the University of St. Gallen. Her commitment to continuous learning and professional development is a testament to her passion for aviation and her dedication to staying at the forefront of industry best practices.
Captain Adebule’s journey to becoming a pilot was a serendipitous one. Initially drawn to engineering, she discovered aviation by chance at the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology in Zaria. “I was a bit late, and I was told flying was available, so I thought, why not give it a shot?” she recalled. That shot turned out to be a defining moment, sparking a passion that would propel her to great heights. She found flying to be fascinating and fulfilling.
Family support has been a cornerstone of her inspiring journey. While her loved ones were initially encouraging, there was a period of reservation following a series of unfortunate incidents in the industry in 2016. However, as she continued to excel in her career, their support only grew stronger. “They’re very supportive,” she said, highlighting the importance of having a strong backing system in pursuing her dreams. Aero Contractors also played a significant role in her growth, providing a platform that fostered talent without discrimination, and encouraging females to thrive in the aviation industry.
Aero Contractors Company of Nigeria Limited has been a stalwart of the nation’s aviation industry since its inception in 1960 and it has consistently demonstrated resilience and adaptability. Today, Aero Contractors operates a diverse range of services, including helicopter services, fixed-wing domestic scheduled passenger services, and air charter, largely supporting Nigeria’s extensive oil and gas industry, while serving multiple destinations.
Under the leadership of Captain Ado Sanusi, Aero has undergone a remarkable transformation. His strategy focused on restructuring and expanding in-house capabilities, including the development of a local maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) facility and an aviation training school. This approach has not only helped the airline control costs but also opened up new revenue streams. With its MRO workshop now profitable and its training school ensuring a steady supply of engineering talent, the airline is poised for continued growth and success.
Her remarkable journey is a testament to the power of determination and perseverance. As a female captain, she sees her role not as a challenge, but as an opportunity to showcase women’s capabilities in aviation. With over a decade of experience, she has consistently demonstrated professionalism and finesse in her work.
For young women aspiring to follow in her footsteps, Captain ImoleayoAdebule’s advice is straightforward: pursue your passion for aviation without hesitation. She believes that the sky is not a limit, but a starting point, and that with hard work and dedication, women can excel in male-dominated industries. Her story serves as a powerful inspiration, urging women to tap into their potential and push beyond boundaries.
