My Goal Is To Position Samsung’s Marketing Department As A Value-Adding Growth Driver— Oge Maduagwu, Head, Marketing, Samsung Electronics.

Can we have an insight into your background and profile?
I was born and bred in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria. Attended University at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, where I graduated with a B.Ed in Economics. Had my compulsory youth service in Ibadan and spent one very active year with the office of the Permanent Secretary Oyo State Ministry of Women Affairs & Social Inclusion. My plan was to get into the University of Ibadan for an MSc at the end of my service year. I had actually commenced the process, however, life had other plans. I got a job offer immediately after Service so I decided to pursue that instead. Moved to Lagos for this very interesting new job and the rest they say is history.
I am a certified Digital Marketing professional from DMI Ireland, a One Young World ambassador, Faculty member of the Young Professionals Academy of the Pitcher Academies, Juror for the 2025 African Pitcher Awards for Creativity and a two-time juror for the Cannes Young Lions (Nigeria) Media competition.
I am a Women on Boards, WimBoard, Fellow and also a Fellow of the National Institute of Marketing of Nigeria, NIMN. I hold memberships with Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria formerly, APCON, NIM and WIMBIZ.

You are a brand and marketing professional, what made you decide on this profession?

I always tell those who ask that I did not choose this profession. I stumbled into it by chance, explored it because I was fascinated and have remained because of its dynamic nature which satisfies my innate curiosity. You cannot say you are a master in the space as there is always something new, something different to pick up. It is so multidimensional especially as you move through the different segments. I must also add that there is something powerful about seeing an idea go from brainstorm scribbles on paper, to strategy on a power point deck, numbers on Excel, to actual real life execution. From Day One in 2009, that had always been mind-blowing to me.

Can you take us through your career trajectory?
My career began in 2009 at a media independent agency called mediaReach OMD. It was and still is one of the biggest MIs in Nigeria. They are a part of the global OMD network. I joined as an Assistant Executive, Media Planning/Data Operations and exited 8 years later as Team Lead for one of the business units, looking after a rich portfolio of multinational and local brands across FMCG, Telco, Banking and Technology.
I joined the client side when Unilever came knocking in 2017. Explored communication channels within marketing. Did a flex role as Brand Manager for one of the detergent brands because I wanted the fastest way to learn about the different parts of the business. At the time, brand managers had to know a bit about everything as the project owners within the business groups. Be it Supply Chain, R&D, Finance, Sales, they had to have the answers, and that was fascinating to me.
I experienced tremendous growth, not just in my career but also on a personal level, in Unilever. And after a truly rewarding journey with incredible people, I exited in 2024 as the West Africa Media Manager looking after Nigeria, Ghana and Francophone Africa, to move to Samsung. Why did I move? Well, I was driven by a desire to build a career marked by rich and varied experiences, so it was an intentional move on my part. It offered me an opportunity to explore a new industry building on passions that had been ignited and nurtured in my previous role.

Who and who would you say have been most influential on your life and career?
Looking back through the years till date, I have to say that I have been truly blessed with the gift of good people. I will however highlight three women and one man. The women, Phil Idokogi, Bunmi Adeniba and Tendu Chipangura. The man, Lunga Mooi.
Phil Idokogi is family. A beautiful consummate career woman who took me under her wings and greatly influenced how I carried (and still carry) myself as a professional, a wife, mum and a growing woman, in general. She was one of my early influences as a career woman, wife and mother long before I became any of that. She taught me how to manage myself as a young lady navigating her way through the world of work. She was the one who prepared me for my early interviews and amongst a host of other things, she taught me the right work mindset, corporate poise and street wisdom which were a requisite as a fresh joiner to the corporate world. She always has stories for days and I learnt so much from her. I learnt self-assurance and intentionality from her. She is amazing. I admire and treasure her greatly.
Second would be Bunmi Adeniba. I call her The Force. Awesome awesome human. She chose to hold my hand when I joined her business group in my early years at Unilever, and helped me see value in my work. She strengthened my belief in myself and the innate value I bring. She helped get me a seat at the proverbial table and never let me forget why I was there – hard work and commitment. I learnt the true value of collaboration and team spirit from her. She taught me that one can be a tough and effective leader and still be a genuinely kind person. A good person. On a personal note, she was the first person to identify what I did not know was a ticking bomb at some point in my life, she helped me through it and literally saved my life. I can never forget Bunmi.

Third would be Tendu Chipangura. One very special lady, very brilliant. She taught me about boundaries and clarity in communication. She used to be my line manager at Unilever, so she walked the literal path before me but did not shut the door behind her. She is a lifter. She is another lady who helped fan my essence and helped me come into my own, career wise. Our relationship has evolved beautifully through the years and, I remain grateful for the gift of her close friendship.
I am grateful that I encountered these women when I did at different points in my career. I am also grateful they are still in my life. Because of them, I know the exact kind of leader I model as I pay things forward.
Last but not least is the man, Lunga Mooi. He was my last line manager at Unilever. He allowed me the opportunity to fully explore my potential, gave me feedback, clipped me when it was necessary but generally gave me wings to fly. He was proud of me. With him, I knew I was valued. He was also very open in showing the organisation that value. To this day, I remain grateful for his leadership.

Can you relate some memorable experiences that you’ve had in your career journey?
Oh there has been a lot! It would be difficult but I would try to pick one from each place I have worked in.
One would definitely be when I was opportune to represent Nigeria in France at the Cannes Festival of Creativity as a Young Lion while I was at the agency. It was an exhilarating experience after the rigorous competitions that saw me win. And I got to do it twice! In 2010 and 2012.
Another would be being a significant part of the culture transformation journey in Unilever Nigeria and leading an agile squad for Africa where we taught the Radical Candour principle across East Africa, West Africa and South Africa. It was challenging but validating work and truly memorable.
Lastly, would be breaking new grounds with Samsung. Being part of first-to-market initiatives, like introducing cutting edge technologies to Nigeria and being part of the team that helps it land in- market. Representing a brand like Samsung on big stages and in front of diverse audiences has also been a defining part of my journey. It has been scary but rewarding. Definitely memorable.
In all of these, people and teamwork have been a key part. It is why, nurturing and building relationships, mentoring with clear communications and problem solving principles is important to me. I would always choose environments where collaboration, creativity and growth are nurtured and, where they are not, I would be the change I want to see.

As the Head of Marketing for Samsung Nigeria, what does your work entail and what products do you market?
I am responsible for owning and supervising the marketing communications and strategic planning activities for Samsung Electronics West Africa working with other units and product teams, within the global and local organization. The unit is the single point of contact for Corporate Marketing to the regional and global arms of the business, consolidating all Samsung Electronics West Africa corporate marketing activities. This covers the Mobile experience and Consumer Electronics divisions. The Mobile business has our mobile phones, Watches, Tablets, and accessories while the Consumer Electronics arm has our Televisions, Sound bars, Music Frames, Monitors, Washing Machines, Refrigerators, Microwave ovens and Air conditioners.

In what ways would you say you have been adding value to the company and what have been your achievements in this role?
In my role as Head of Marketing and Communications, my focus has been on building strong connections between our brand, our products, and the Nigerian customer. Key areas have been –
Driving brand relevance – ensuring Samsung remains top of mind through culturally resonant campaigns and communications that speak to the aspirations of our customers.
Strengthening market leadership – through innovative and impactful campaigns, and strategic partnerships that highlight Samsung as a lifestyle enabler, not just a tech brand.
Enhancing customer engagement – leveraging both traditional and digital platforms to create experiences that build trust and loyalty among our users.
Delivering business impact – aligning marketing strategies with business goals to contribute to sales growth, brand equity, and market share.

A few achievements in the role include:
Rolling out first-in-market campaigns such as the partnership between Samsung and Chicken Republic for our entry level Galaxy A06, showcasing innovation in a way that is relevant to that young and on-the-go demographic.
Successfully leading the launch of our local language campaign, positioning Samsung as a brand that deeply cares about the country and its diverse cultures.
Building strong PR/media and influencer partnerships that have expanded our reach and engagement, particularly within the Gen MZ demographic.
Overall, my intention is about making Samsung not just a brand people admire, but one they choose and truly connect with, in their everyday lives.

What are your goals for the Marketing Department?
As HOD for the marketing department, my goals are varied but centred on strengthening both brand relevance and business impact as we build a high performing, agile and creative marketing unit. So, whether it is deepening customer connections by creating campaigns that resonate with the aspirations, culture, and lifestyle of our diverse West African audience. Or, it is driving digital transformation in marketing by leveraging data, insights, and new media platforms to engage consumers in more personalized and meaningful ways.

Or, even enhancing brand leadership by ensuring that Samsung remains the most aspirational technology brand in the region through bold, innovative storytelling and memorable product experiences. Or, of course supporting the business growth by aligning marketing strategies directly with sales goals, ensuring every campaign contributes to market share and revenue.
Ultimately, my goal is to position the marketing department as a value adding growth driver. Not just amplifying messages, but shaping consumer preference and loyalty that fuels Samsung’s leadership in West Africa.

Prof Oyedunni Arulogun: An Erudite in Health promotion and special Education servicing as VC Chrisland University

Her name is synonymous with excellence and erudition in her field, that is why she has been associated with some firsts at the University of Ibadan where she was lecturing and researching before being called upon to come and serve as the Vice Chancellor of Chrisland University, an upcoming private university located in Abeokuta, Ogun State. But her story should not surprise anyone really. When God carves a path for you, He gives you the empowerment and backs you all the way. Thus, for Prof Oyedunni Sola Arulogun, a frontline health promotion and education expert in Nigeria, there is no gainsaying that her path definitely is divinely carved, the reason she has become a pathfinder and the first female professor of health promotion and education; first female to become the Dean of the Faculty of Public Health, and the first female University Orator in the 77-year-old UI.

With first and second degrees in Special Education, Arulogun worked as a speech therapist at the University College Hospital, Ibadan for 13 years before venturing into academics in 2002. She was about starting her Ph.D, also in the Special Education field when she was intimated about a new course- Master in Public Health by her Head of Department who also advised her to take up the course. She took to his advice and took up the challenge. Not only did she finish the Masters but went ahead to obtain her Ph.D in the same discipline. Thus she became a master in two fields, the combination of which has made her an expert in both health promotion and special education.

Noteworthy is the fact that Arulogun whose versatility as a researcher is legendary rose to become a professor within just 10 years. Her research interests include reproductive health of adolescents with a bias for the disabled, gender, stroke studies, child survival strategies, tropical diseases, and health promotion, whilst embracing community- based interventions. In fact, she has a broad background in speech pathology/ audiology, health promotion and education with specific training and expertise in speech rehabilitation after stroke, delayed speech development in children, qualitative studies, community engagement activities, capacity building and mentoring.

As an avid researcher, she has served as Principal Investigator, Co-Principal Investigator or Co – Investigator on several internally and externally funded projects and grants including MacArthur Foundation, World Health Organization, Unilever, National Institute of Health, National Agency for the Control of AIDS, World Bank, University of Ibadan Senate Research Grant and Bill and Melinda Gates supported University of Ibadan Centre for Reproductive Health. She has also been the Chairperson of the Oyo State Advisory Committee on Neglected Tropical Diseases from 2016 up till date. She was appointed the Director of the University of Ibadan Centre for Entrepreneurship and Innovation for a three-year term in 2019 which elapsed in 2022 but was renewed.

Arulogun who became the Vice Chancellor of Chrisland University in November 2024 has the vision to make the university a centre of academic excellence where staffers are happy working in. She also wants her students to develop entrepreneurial mindsets.

And to aspiring female professionals, she advised them to be focused in their life and do things without compromise.

I carry a strong sense of responsibility to contribute to Nigeria’s growth story- Titilayo Giwa, Head Contract, Claims AND Compliance, ILF Engineers

‘’For me, Law is about clarity, accountability, justice, and those principles don’t just shape individuals, they shape economies and livelihoods. I’m grateful to be part of a profession that just doesn’t react to problems but creates frameworks for solutions’’, so said Titilayo Regina Giwa, the Head, Contracts, Claims and Compliance for ILF Engineers Nigeria Ltd while stating her reason for going into the Law profession.”

She continued: ‘’Growing up I had a deep appreciation for structure, integrity, and fairness. These are values I live by and have naturally found expression in my career as a lawyer. Law has always felt natural. I was that child who questioned everything and was probably the most argumentative kid anyone had the pleasure of meeting. I argued with my teachers, respectfully though, and constantly questioned the logic behind the stories I was told’’.

Giwa who informed that beyond her professional calling, she bears a strong sense of responsibility to contribute to Nigeria’s growth story and to advocate for fairness in how rules and systems are applied to Nigerians read Law at the University of Benin. She did her youth service at a small law firm in Ibadan and because of this got thrown into everything-arrests, bail applications, petitions, land disputes and all sorts. In fact, her first bail application was for the release of a traditional herbalist. Prior to that, she says, she had never even been inside a police station. Though the experience as she said was scary, it was also exciting as she rates it as one of her top five most interesting encounters in her career.

Having had a strong foundation in advocacy and attention to detail from the experience in Ibadan, she moved to Lagos after her youth service and joined a top-tier law firm where she worked as an associate in the energy sector. Here, she had the opportunity to work on large commercial transactions; mergers, acquisitions, securitized deals, and later transitioned into commercial litigation with a focus on claims against vessels.

With time she transitioned in-house, first as company secretary for an indigenous energy services company. This role deepened her passion for the energy sector and enabled her to have knowledge about some landmark projects in the sector. When she moved to ILF Engineers it was as the Head of Contracts Claims, and Compliance for the company, a role which involves managing complex EPC contracts, navigating compliance issues, and mitigating risks.

One particularly memorable moment for her in this role was managing a high-stakes contract dispute that could have stalled a major project. According to her, the negotiations was intense, but in the end, a resolution was reached that not only saved costs but preserved relationships between the parties. That experience, she says, reminded her that law is about problem- solving and building bridges. “Moments like that reaffirm why I chose this path”, she said gleefully.

Earlier in her career she said she struggled with imposter syndrome and often felt the need to prove a seat at the table as a woman. However, with time, she learned that preparation, excellence and authenticity speak louder than anything else. ‘’I began to let my works and results speak for me and that shifted everything. Along the way, I also found allies who value substance over stereotypes and their support has been invaluable,’’ she stated.

As for those that have influenced her life most, Giwa readily mentioned her family. According to her, her mother taught her resilience and integrity, while her father gave her the courage to pursue big dreams without fear. On the professional front, she mentioned Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala as a woman she draws inspiration from. Her ability to merge technical expertise with global leadership has continued to awe her, she asserted.

On the challenges being faced in the discharge of her duties, she hinted that the biggest has to do with balancing global standards with local realities. International contracts often come with compliance and contractual frameworks that may not fit neatly into the Nigerian or African context, she observed. To tackle this, she emphasized that she has become adaptive by interpreting global requirements in ways that are practical and sustainable for our environment.

A well- recognized voice in compliance, equity and sustainability in infrastructure development within the legal industry, Giwa stated that the greatest honors she has had in the industry was being entrusted with high stakes projects, and getting invited to share her perspectives at global platforms.

And to females who are aspiring to be professionals, she has these words of advice, “Prepare, be excellent, and let your work speak for you. Also, don’t be afraid to ask for what you deserve. Find mentors, support other women, and remember that every barrier you break makes it easier for the next woman coming behind you”

Janet Tolowoetan: Managing HR value chain and driving organisational efficiency at ILF Engineers

For Janet Abiola Tolowoetan, her human resources management career commenced at a manufacturing company where she was employed as an admin/human resource assistant. In this role, she gained foundational experience in human resource administration and employee relations. Over time, she transited into more strategic roles as HR Business Partner. Today, the 2010 MBA in Human Resources Management holder from Lagos State University is the Human Resources Manager of ILF Engineers Nigeria Ltd where she oversees the HR value-chain whilst driving organizational efficiency and employee success.

“Every step of my career has been guided by a passion for developing impactful age-out strategies and creating employee experiences that inspires happiness, foster fulfilment and drive productivity. My experience has shaped my ability to align business goals with people strategies, foster a positive workplace culture, and deliver value to both the organization and its employees,” said Tolowoetan, who became a licensed HR Practitioner with the certification of the Chartered Institute of Personnel Management of Nigeria in 2014.

A member of the Nigerian Institute of Training and Development, and also a Fellow of the Institute of Change Management she stated that she is committed to leveraging her expertise to further enhance and support ILF’s culture of collaboration, inclusion, and innovation, ensuring it remains engaging and impactful. She added: “I’m focused on building a dynamic and people-centered HR system that supports the organization’s strategic objectives while fostering employee growth and ultimately positioning HR as strategic partner driving both operational excellence and championing employee satisfaction.”

Tolowoetan whose experience spans over 22years in banking, manufacturing, oil and gas and now engineering consulting, ensures she stays relevant and updated constantly in the profession so as not to be rusty. Thus, she actively engages with various HR associations and groups including AEHRP, HR Foundry, HRIP, Women in HR, The Ascendium Leadership Network and other professionals to continuously learn and expand her knowledge base.

Relating some unforgettable experiences in her career, she said successfully halting a strike action by the labour union early in her career was one. According to her, the workers union threatened to go on strike for a demand not met by the organization and this was at a peak period when the company cannot afford to lose sales. She was thrusted with the responsibility of managing the situation, and this she did excellently by quelling the proposed strike action.

“Another significant experience that shaped me as an HR Professional was when I stood up for an employee who was being unfairly treated even though doing so put my job on the line. But driven by my passion for fairness, I ensured the employee received justice, and through this, I learned the power of having accurate data, maintaining records, and leveraging on labour law as tools to advocate for others,” she reminisced.

Recalling yet another memorable incident, Tolowoetan hinted that this was when she was tasked to lead the HR team in carrying out an audit and improve the HR information system in a company. Leading the team, she says, was tougher than the assignment itself, so she had to put in extra hours, learn to manage different people, build communication and leadership skills during this period just as she ensured the timeline does not slip.

On why she decided to pursue a career in human resources, she informed that it was driven by a desire to challenge the status quo and address an unfair treatment she observed in her early career. She stressed that when she began her career, traditional HR practices were still dominant but that she was determined to integrate transformational HR principles into it. Because of this, her focus as a HR practitioner has always been to be strategic whilst creating a balance where both people and businesses can thrive, ensuring that employees are valued and empowered, while the organization achieves its objectives.

However, she is quick to admit that managing people come with diverse challenges but contends that resilience, prioritizing open communication, streamlining processes and fostering an inclusive culture where everyone feels heard and valued is the antidote. Above all, continuous learning, staying informed, engaging with HR communities, and seeking expert advice when necessary also helps a lot in turning challenges into opportunities for growth and innovation, she asserted.

Tolowoetan also agreed that challenges are not uncommon for women in careers. According to her, one challenge she encountered was breaking through stereotypes and being seen as a capable leader rather than being judged by her gender. Another was balancing work and personal life. To counter the challenges, she hinted that what she did was to focus on delivering results and building a reputation for excellence. “I invested in continuous learning, stayed confident in my abilities, and sought out mentors – both male and female who guided me through tough situations, “she remarked, adding, “I managed the work-life balance situation by prioritizing tasks, setting boundaries and leaning on support systems when needed.”

And to aspiring female professionals, she advised them to be willing to learn and grow, believe in themselves and surround themselves with people who inspire and support them.

Customers Will Soon Begin To Enjoy Our Mobile App, USSD Banking, And Internet Banking—Damilola Agboluaje, IT Product Manager, Fast Credit Finance

Can we have an insight into your background?
My name is Damilola Olawunmi Agboluaje, I am proudly Nigerian, of Edo and Yoruba heritage, the first of 3 children. I grew up in Ibadan, where I attended Best Brain College from junior secondary school to senior. From leading the children’s choir at Christ Apostolic Church when I was a teenager, to hosting red carpets and events while being an undergraduate at Obafemi Awolowo University, leadership and public speaking have always been part of me.
After graduation, I moved to Lagos and worked with media houses and a film production company, but I wanted more, more impact, more value, which led me to tech. Today, nearly half a decade later, I specialize in building financial products that help people and businesses manage money, invest, and build wealth.
Beyond work, I run Tech Careers With TDA (The Damilola Agboluaje), an initiative God placed in my heart to help young people transition into tech. My faith remains my foundation, and the guidance of my mother and the legacy of my late father continue to shape who I am.

Can you take us through your career trajectory?
My transition from media to tech was a defining moment in my career. A friend, Oluyosola Olamijulo, a Backend Developer, spotted my potential and encouraged me to explore Product Management. I took free online courses, excelled, and began building my portfolio.
I started as a Product Owner at Parkway Projects, learning the importance of structured product development, then progressed to Product Manager, taking on broader responsibilities. Later, I joined Swwipe Financial Services Limited as Lead Product Manager, leading the product team and strategic initiatives.
Today, as IT Product Manager at Fast Credit Finance Company Ltd, I oversee product innovation and digital solutions, collaborating across teams to solve complex problems and deliver products that truly meet user needs.

Can you relate some memorable experiences that you’ve had in your professional journey?
One highlight was leading to the development of a financial product that simplified payments for thousands of users. Witnessing the real impact on people’s daily lives was deeply rewarding. Another was joining Fast Credit to fix a technical gap where products were developed without proper requirements. At first, it was daunting, but today it stands as one of my proudest achievements, introducing clearer structure and significantly improving product development from the technical side.

In what ways would you say you have been impacting and adding value to the company?
One of my biggest contributions has been introducing structure through the guidance of my CTO- Joseph Kumoye. By ensuring technical and functional requirements are well-documented before execution, we’ve reduced delays and improved efficiency. I’ve also managed the rebuild of our mobile app, USSD banking, and Internet banking, all from scratch, and working with a team of highly skilled professionals, to bring these products that were once ideas to reality. These are products I’m excited about because soon, customers will experience the value we’ve worked so hard to build.
Ultimately, the value I bring is to ensure that every product we launch not only meets customer needs but also contributes to the company’s long-term growth.

What advice do you have for aspiring female professionals?
My advice would be:
Put God first. Anchor your career on His word and purpose for your life.
Believe in your value. Never let gender stereotypes box you in.
Invest in your skills. Competence builds confidence and attracts opportunities.
Find your voice. Speak up in rooms where decisions are made.
Build your network. Leverage mentors and peers to open doors and guide you.
Stay consistent and true to your values. Excellence and integrity will always set you apart.

For me, PR is not about publicity, its about driving impact- Oluwadamilola Olujide, Lead Consultant, Chain Reaction Africa

A communications and public relations professional with a strong background in strategy development, brand storytelling, media engagement, corporate communications and account management, Oluwadamilola Olujide currently serves as a Lead Consultant at Chain Reactions Africa, a top public relations and integrated communications consultancy with a reputation for providing creative, insight-driven and impactful solutions to clients across Africa. In her role as Lead Consultant, she manages high-impact projects and client relationships, helping brands achieve visibility and business outcomes through strategic communications.

“I have always been passionate about storytelling and the power of communication to influence perceptions and behaviour,” says Olujide, when responding to a question on why she chose public relations as a career. “Public relations offered me the perfect platform to merge that passion with strategy, giving me the ability to help brands build trust, manage reputations and create meaningful connections with their audiences. For me, PR is not just about publicity; it’s about driving impact and shaping how people think and act”, she said further.

Olujide contends that several people have shaped her journey in the industry as she had been privileged to work with leaders in communications who exposed her to high standards, and who taught her the value of excellence, resilience, and creativity. Some of these include Israel Jaiye Opayemi, MD of Chain Reactions Africa, Tolu Anibaba, Adekunle Odukoya and Bamidele Johnson, who were all her former bosses, and Ayoola Ogunyomi, her current boss, in addition to Jenkins Alumona, who brought her into the profession. She also did not forget to mention Folasade Adebawo, her former human resources manager. However, on the personal level, she pointed out that her family has been her biggest support system as they have continually encouraged her to pursue her ambitions, reminding her of the importance of integrity in everything she does.

Recalling an unforgettable experience, she said this was when she was managing major government and corporate events and had to coordinate multiple stakeholders, including top government officials and business leaders. “Seeing everything come together seamlessly despite the pressure behind the scenes was very rewarding,” she reminisced.

Another highlight has been leading campaigns that not only boosted brand visibility but also had social impact such as projects supporting women, youth, and grassroots communities. These moments, she offered, remind her of why she chose the profession.

Olujide has been adding value to Chain Reactions in no small way. This is by bringing a mix of creativity, strategic thinking, and executional excellence to her role. In fact, she is well invested in understanding client needs and translating them into communication strategies that achieve real business results.

She believes education is one of the most important tools for empowering girls and shaping them to become professionals. Consequently, she proffered that investing in girl-child education should not just be a social responsibility, but an investment in national development. And to aspiring female professionals, she advised, “Be confident in your abilities and never shy away from opportunities to prove yourself. Build your competence, invest in continuous learning and don’t be afraid to take up space in rooms where decisions are made. Also seek out mentors and networks that can support your growth, and remember to pay it forward by supporting other women along the way.”

My Vision Is To Make Bathrooms Direct The Number One Choice For Developers And Home Owners —- Princess Kay-Olufade, MD Bathrooms Direct

Princess Kay-Olufade is a dynamic and strategic business leader with 20 years’ experience, including 17 years of transformational leadership at Black Pelican Group, a leading player in Nigeria’s interior solutions and wellness industry. She currently serves as the Chief Executive Officer of Bathrooms Direct, a fast-growing, mid-range interior solutions company serving Nigeria’s real estate developers, consultants and commercial clients, and a key subsidiary of Black Pelican Group.

She is known for her visionary leadership, impeccable execution, and people-first approach to business growth and transformation. She drives high impact partnerships across the Nigerian real estate and construction ecosystem and is responsible for positioning Bathrooms Direct as a preferred partner for developers and contractors. She has built a career on strategic thinking, operational excellence, and exceptional customer experience delivery, anchored on the belief that “a happy team creates happy customers”.

Princess who holds a B.Sc in Business Administration and an MBA in Strategic Marketing, complemented by executive education from Lagos Business School has a lot of achievements under her belt at the Black Pelican Group. She successfully led the repositioning of Bathrooms Direct’s brand in the market, reclaimed market share in key locations, improved developer engagement, and strengthened the sales pipeline. Alos, under her leadership, the commercial solutions line has been expanded to include tiles, doors, kitchens, and wardrobes, aside from the flexible payment plans for developers, as well as improved operational efficiency. In addition, over the years, high-value contracts were secured with leading developers and multiple landmark projects were delivered across Nigeria.

According to her, some of her most memorable moments include receiving the Corporate Excellence Award, which she said validated her years of hard work and leadership even as having successfully managed the RCA building project, a complex and high profile development that tested her project management skills was another unforgettable experience. Additionally, she noted, leading her team to surpass annual sales targets within her first year as GM of the group remained a personal delight.

When asked those that have influenced her life and career most, the indefatigable marketer immediately responded saying: “My late father, Sir Joseph Bob-Ogbuagu Egwuh has been my lifelong inspiration, instilling in me discipline, resilience and integrity. Professionally, I am deeply grateful to my Group CEO, Mr Michael Owolabi, and my Group Executive Director, Mr Adetola Owolabi, whose mentorship and guidance have been instrumental in shaping my leadership journey. Their belief in my abilities and their unwavering support have been pivotal to my career growth.”

Princess’ vision is to make Bathrooms Direct the number one choice for developers and homeowners seeking functional bathroom and interior solutions in Nigeria. This, she hinted, includes expanding the company’s presence beyond Lagos and Abuja, leveraging technology for customer engagement, strengthening their partnerships with local manufacturers, and developing an e-commerce platform to make their offerings more accessible.

I See Myself Becoming A Stronger Voice For Social Change, Helping People Become Self Sufficient —– Iyobosa Sorae, Co-Founder, ESorae Foundation

A former banker turned entrepreneur and social impact advocate, Iyobosa Sorae life’s work has been rooted in value creation for businesses and transformational impact for the next generation. As the Managing Partner at Opes Venit, a family office, and founder of Pershing Hills Elementary School, alongside being a co-founder of ESorae Foundation which empowers communities through education, entrepreneurial skills development, and financial literacy, she has consistently proved to be a vessel for social change in the Nigerian society.

With an MSc in Finance from IE Business School, Madrid and an MBA from Imperial College Business School, Iyobosa naturally ventured into banking. Here she was able to have an insider’s view of how money moves, how businesses grow, and how decisions at the top affect lives. “Everything I know now, or most of the things I know, I learned during my time in banking,” she says. “After spending over a decade and a half in the industry, I felt it was time. The decision to leave was driven by my desire to create social impact from an impact investing perspective”

After her over sixteen years’ experience in banking, she transitioned into entrepreneurship, launching Pershing Hills Elementary School, and serving as Managing Partner at Opes Venit family office. The Esorae Foundation was also founded to enable her make the change she wanted to see in the world.

Speaking about she and her husband’s passion – the Esorae Foundation, she offered: “Charity has been a very strong part of my story, so co- founding this foundation was natural. The Esorae Foundation was really just putting structure to what we had been involved in over the years. We co- founded it to empower communities through education, entrepreneurial skills development, financial literacy, and scholarships. While we have a particular focus on women and children, we serve individuals from all backgrounds because we believe everyone deserves access to comprehensive programs that help them develop practical business skills alongside traditional education.”
Since founding, she stressed that they have maintained their commitment to empowering people from a social impact perspective, leaving them with entrepreneurial skills and business acumen that will help them become self-sufficient and create their own opportunities.

Recalling some standout moments in her banking days, she said it was during a turnaround situation in a bank. According to her, when they came on board, the bank was ranked 20 within the banking industry then, but that when she was made to head the treasury, she got together very smart traders that were able to reposition the bank strategically to push it to 7th in ranking. This experience, she says, taught her the power of strategic thinking and positioned leadership.

Another unforgettable moment came through the Esorae Foundation. She noted that the completion of their community projects was really exhilarating. Watching
lives transform in real time made every sacrifice worthwhile, she claimed.

She envisions expanding the foundation’s reach in order to empower more people, and to continue providing scholarships and comprehensive skills development that create lasting change and economic opportunities. And for Pershing Hills Elementary School, she aims to set the standard for 21st century quality education whilst growing its impact in educational sector just as her goal at Opes Venit is to strengthen it so that it can continue to maintain the excellence that sets it apart.

Iyobosa sees herself becoming a stronger voice for social change, especially in the areas of financial literacy, entrepreneurship development, women’s empowerment and education in the nearest future. Her desire is to also mentor young professionals and entrepreneurs, sharing lessons from her own path to help them navigate theirs with confidence. In fact, her ultimate goal is to continue helping people become self-sufficient, develop their own businesses, and create economic opportunities for themselves and their communities.

As for her take on the level of girl-child education in Nigeria, she had this to say: “We’ve made progress, but there’s still a long road ahead-especially in rural areas. Educating girls is not just a moral responsibility; it’s a powerful investment in our future. An educated girl with entrepreneurial skills is more likely to raise healthier children, earn better income, start her own business, and contribute to the nation’s development. We must dismantle every barrier, whether cultural, financial, or infrastructural that stands in her way. This is why our foundation places more emphasis on providing educational opportunities, scholarships, and entrepreneurial skills training for children, with special attention to ensuring girls have equal access to all our programs”.

She counselled all female professionals to believe in themselves even when others doubt them. Asides, she charged them to build competence, learn continuously, and maintain the hunger and drive needed to succeed in their chosen fields.

Our Goal Is to Be The Go-To Partner For Anyone Intending To Grow Their Wealth- Yemisi Ogunmola, CEO, EDC Fund Management.

She is the current Chief Executive Officer of EDC Fund Management Ltd, a subsidiary of Ecobank Group, and the asset management arm of the group which provides a range of investment solutions for individuals, institutions and corporates across Nigeria and West Africa. Through the firm, Oluwayemisi Ogunmola has the vision to make investing seamless, secure and inclusive whilst also helping clients achieve financial growth with transparency and ease.

An alumnus of the University of Lagos where she earned a Bachelor’s in Computer Science and an MBA in Marketing, Yemisi has over the years gained strong expertise in asset management, managing portfolios, and guiding clients towards sustainable wealth creation. She believes it should be accessible, empowering and value- driven.

Yemisi whose career began in 2005 traversed FBN Securities Ltd and FBN Capital Ltd before berthing at EDC Fund Management in 2014. Her achievements at FBN Securities include growing the firm’s Assets Under Management, AUM, from ₦4billion to over ₦20billion, just as she managed over ₦110billion in fixed income portfolios at FBN Capital. These experiences, she says taught her the importance of market insight, discipline, and sound decision- making.

At EDC Fund Management which she transitioned to in 2014 as Head of Fund Distribution, Yemisi led the team to grow the firm’s AUM from $1.2 million to over $100million in less than four years. This accomplishment moved the firm to become one of the top 10 Asset Managers in Nigeria. Consequent upon this achievement, she got elevated to the position of Managing Director of the firm in 2021, the position she holds till date.

But though Yemisi’s path looks so smooth, it is not without thorns. She explains: “Navigating leadership in a male-dominated industry has not been without challenges. At different stages, I encountered skepticism and hard to work twice as hard to prove my capabilities. I chose to focus on delivering excellence consistently. By letting results speak for themselves, I earned respect and built credibility.”

She however confessed that she had been fortunate to have worked with several wonderful leaders who really inspired her in her career adding that Mrs. Bola Adesola in particular was one woman whom she drew inspiration from because she has been able to break barriers and made space for others to rise.

As for her goals for the firm, she hinted, “My vision is to transform EDC Fund Management into the leading retail – focused asset manager in West Africa. We aim to increase AUM sustainably, deepen digital integration, and offer tailored investment products that resonate with a diverse customer base. Ultimately, our goal is to be the go – to partner for anyone looking to grow their wealth responsibly.”

Advising aspiring female professionals, she told them, “Stay grounded in your values and be excellent in your work. Don’t wait for permission to lead. Build relationships, find mentors, and pay it forward. Your journey may not be easy, but it will be worth it. Don’t forget to start your investment journey early so as to enjoy the benefits in the long run”.

Abimbola Lawal: A Seasoned And Results-Driven Finance Professional Overseeing E-Settlement’s Financial Ecosystem

Her academic background was in English Language as she has a Bachelors in it, but today Mrs Abimbola Lawal is a chartered accountant, a 360-degree change in career path. Explaining why she changed path, she said: “My journey into accountancy was driven by a natural inclination toward structure, analysis, and problem-solving. I found myself drawn to finance because of its critical role in decision-making and strategic growth. The profession appealed to my analytical mind and gave me a platform to make tangible impacts within organizations.”

Abimbola, an Associate of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants, ACCA, who also holds a certification in Financial Modelling and Valuation is at present the current Chief Financial Officer of E-Settlement Ltd, an electronic payment platform in Nigeria where she oversees a turnover exceeding ₦3billion. In this role, she is responsible for the organization’s entire financial ecosystem- from strategic financial planning and risk management to budgeting, forecasting, and investor relations. In fact, she works closely with the leadership of the firm and the board to provide insights that drive the transformation of the business and its long-term growth.

Her career began at PricewaterhouseCoopers where she spent several years developing a solid foundation in audit and assurance, eventually rising to become an Assistant Manager. She then transitioned to Eat NGo Ltd, the operators of Domino’s Pizza and Coldstone Creamery. There she managed four finance units and led its ERP implementation, something she tagged a memorable experience because it was a complex project with high stakes which they successfully transitioned to Microsoft Dynamics NAV without disrupting operations. It was from here that she came over to E-Settlement as Chief Financial Officer.

Abimbola who revealed that her mum is her role model has also had her fair share of bias from male counterparts. She says; “Navigating a male-dominated industry, especially in finance and tech, comes with its own set of challenges, whether its earning equal respect or being included in key decision-making spaces. I have tackled these by staying prepared, assertive, and results-oriented. Continuous learning and formal leadership programs like the Lagos Business School’s Women in Leadership course have also helped me refine my approach and strengthen my leadership presence”.

Of course, there is bound to be challenges in any business. Abimbola acknowledges this saying that as a business in the fintech industry, rapid innovation and regulatory shifts have been constant challenges. Her goal however is to make the finance department a strategic enabler, build a high-performing team that uses data to drive insight, supports innovation, and adds measurable value across the business. She added that digitization, automation, and continued development for the team are also key priorities.

Rendering some words of advice to aspiring female professionals, she urged them to believe in their abilities and let their work speak volumes. Additionally, she counselled them to be prepared to work hard and take up space in rooms that may not have been built with them in mind. Furthermore, she told them: “Seek mentors, invest in your growth, and don’t shy away from leadership opportunities. Above all, maintain your integrity, it’s your strongest asset”.

I Believe That Finance Is A Tool For Transformation- Yemisi Sola- Oyegbade, Chief Financial Officer, JNCI

Yemisi Sola- Oyegbade, the Chief Financial Officer of JNC International Ltd is the woman responsible for driving the whole gamut of the company’s financial strategy: from budgeting and liquidity planning to capital structuring and stakeholder engagement. She equally is tasked with the responsibility of overseeing procurement as well as inventory whilst ensuring the company operates efficiently and cost-effectively.

To those who may not know, JNCI is a proudly African company that specializes in providing turnkey medical equipment and healthcare infrastructure solutions which cuts across radio diagnostics, oncology, surgery, ICU, CSSD, mother and child care among others. Besides, the company is deeply committed to strengthening healthcare systems in Africa by delivering world-class solutions, improving patient care and outcomes in partnership with global OEMs.

Says Sola-Oyegbade: “My focus has been on delivering measurable impact through financial strategy and operational discipline and I would say my impact has been most visible in four key areas: strategic financing, cost optimization, process efficiency and risk management. On the financing side, I have led efforts to secure funding for key projects by collaborating with both local and international partners. I have also driven cost optimization by aligning procurement and inventory management processes with financial strategy, ensuring better resources allocation and improved margins; led process engineering and re-engineering initiatives that have improved operational efficiencies; reduced redundancies, and strengthened financial reporting. Through consistent risk evaluation, I’ve helped the company make smarter investment choices and stay resilient, even in unpredictable economic conditions”

A Chartered Financial Analyst, CFA, who equally holds an MBA in Finance from the University of Lagos, Sola- Oyegbade whose journey into the finance world was more of a gradual discovery disclosed that earning her CFA charter was one moment she will never forget. “It took eight years filled with long nights, balancing work and study, and staying committed, even when it felt overwhelming. It wasn’t just a certification for me; it was a symbol of persistence and discipline. When I finally got the charter, it was emotional, it symbolized every late night, every sacrifice. That experience shaped the way I approach everything now: with diligence, focus, and the belief that excellence always pays off.”

A Lagos Business School alumnus as well, the JNCI CFO disclosed that her father was one of the people who have influenced her life. Growing up, she says, her dad was always holding intelligent discussions that centered around African economies with them. These moments, she recalled, sparked her curiosity and gave her a strong foundation in critical thinking and economic awareness.

Another person that has had a profound influence on her life is her husband. According to her, her husband is her most constant cheer leader. “He always encourages me to push beyond limitations, both societal and self-imposed. He believes in my potential even in moments when I second-guess myself. His unwavering support has empowered me to aim higher, take bold decisions, and embrace leadership with confidence,” she says.

Sola-Oyegbade who had worked in places like Intercontinental Bank, now Access Bank, where she got exposed to liquidity management and currency trading, later joined Zedcrest Capital as the Head of the FX business line, transitioned to Financial Datanet House Ltd where she supported banks and regulators in areas like risk management and treasury transformation before crossing over to JNC International in 2019 as Finance Manager. Afterwards, she got promoted to Chief Financial Officer. One of the highlights of her career achievements in the firm was leading the financing of over $29milion in healthcare projects during the Covid-19 period.

And to aspiring female professionals, she counselled them to always bring their best to the table. “Let the quality of your work speak so clearly that if your gender ever becomes a consideration, it can only be seen as a plus. Be consistent, be excellent, and let your competence be undeniable. Also, always show up ready. Preparation is key. Don’t wait to be handed a seat at the table, earn it, and when you get there, own it with grace and substance,” she advised.

INTEGRITY, INNOVATION, AND LEADERSHIP: THE PILLARS DRIVING TOTAL HEALTH TRUST’S IMPACT

What is your perception of the word “Integrity”?
Integrity is the one asset you can’t insure, outsource, or depreciate. It’s doing the right thing, especially when no one’s watching, because in business, someone always is. Without it, every success is temporary; with it, even setbacks become investments in trust. Similarly, at THT, integrity translates into principled performance. It means going beyond compliance to uphold ethical standards, ensuring fairness in our dealings, protecting the trust of our clients and providers, and reinforcing our credibility in the market. This principled performance is what sustains long-term relationships, secures regulatory confidence, and drives the company’s lasting relevance.

It is often argued that one of the challenges facing Nigeria has to do with leadership. What is your take on this?

Leadership is certainly a recurring theme in conversations about Nigeria’s development, but I believe it goes beyond individuals in positions of authority. It is about the systems we build, the culture we nurture, and the accountability we uphold. While strong leadership is critical, sustainable progress requires a collective commitment from institutions, businesses, and citizens alike to play their part. In my view, the real opportunity lies in moving from a personality-driven model to an institution-driven one, where leadership at every level can thrive and deliver results. Personally, I would prefer to see a Nigeria where everyone thinks and acts with the mindset of a leader, not just a follower, because nations don’t transform by instructions from the top, but by initiative from all levels.

Ultimately, leadership is the lever that either accelerates or stalls progress. Addressing Nigeria’s leadership challenge requires cultivating a culture of integrity, strengthening institutions, and also holding leaders accountable to the people they serve.

What would you describe as the characteristics of a true leader?
As a leader, I often reflect on what truly defines leadership. John Maxwell put it simply: leadership is influence nothing more, nothing less. It’s not about titles or positions; it’s about the ability to inspire others through vision and action.

I also believe, as many great thinkers have said, that trust is the real currency of leadership and without integrity, there can be no trust. To me, integrity means consistency between word and deed. It is the foundation on which everything else rests.

When you bring these perspectives together, it becomes clear: good leaders are visionary, principled, humble, emotionally intelligent, and courageous enough to make tough decisions. But above all, they understand that leadership is service to people, to purpose, and to the future.

What innovations would you say have impacted the running of Total Health Trust Limited over the years?

At Total Health Trust, innovation has been at the heart of our growth journey. Technology, in particular, has redefined how we engage with clients and deliver healthcare solutions. From digital claims processing to telemedicine and health data analytics, we have embraced tools that make healthcare more accessible, transparent, and efficient. We continue to invest in customer-centric solutions, creating platforms that simplify health insurance for both individuals and corporates while ensuring faster and more reliable service delivery. Beyond technology, we have introduced innovative products that respond to the evolving needs of our clients and promote financial inclusion, ensuring quality healthcare is within reach for people across diverse segments of society.”

What would you describe as the greatest passion that has brought you this far in your career?

My greatest passion has always been making an impact. I am deeply motivated by the desire to improve lives, whether through access to quality healthcare, creating opportunities for teams to excel, or shaping industries for better outcomes. This passion for impact keeps me focused, even when challenges arise. Knowing that the work we do at THT helps families, businesses, and communities gives me the drive to keep pushing boundaries.

As a key practitioner and stakeholder, what steps do you think the government needs to take to address obvious challenges in the sector to fast-track economic development and wealth creation for the nation?

The HMO sector is central to national health and economic growth, and government must unlock its potential through stronger regulation, support for innovation, and incentives that expand insurance coverage. Crucially, policies should also bring in Nigerians in the informal sector through community-based schemes, subsidies, and mobile platforms for flexible payments. By treating healthcare as both a social good and an economic driver, Nigeria can build a healthier, more productive population and accelerate inclusive development Targeting the industry, the HMO space has grown rapidly, and while competition can be healthy, the unchecked entry of poorly structured players risks eroding public trust and damaging the industry’s credibility. Government must strengthen licensing requirements, enforce stricter compliance standards, and ensure that only firms with the right financial, technical, and governance capacity operate in the sector. This is not about limiting competition, but about protecting enrollees, safeguarding service quality, and preserving the reputation of an industry that is vital to Nigeria’s health and economic future

What do you consider as the toughest decision that you ever made and the lesson(s) learnt?

One of the most defining moments in my leadership career was steering an organizational restructuring to align with a new strategic vision. It involved making important decisions around people, processes, and culture. While such transitions are never easy, they are sometimes necessary to secure long-term sustainability and growth. What I took away from that experience is that leadership often requires balancing firmness with compassion. With transparency, empathy, and clear communication, even difficult changes can open the door to stronger performance and new opportunities.

What is your advice to young professionals, especially women, aspiring to leadership roles?

My advice is simple: be intentional, be excellent, and be resilient. Never wait for opportunities to be handed to you; create them through consistent performance and continuous learning. For women especially, the journey can be tougher because of societal expectations, but don’t let that limit you. Build competence, find mentors, and stay true to your values. Leadership is not a sprint; it is a marathon. If you stay the course with passion and integrity, you will not only rise but also open doors for others.

As a member of the Tangerine Group, Total Health Trust (THT) continues to redefine healthcare delivery in Nigeria, complementing the Group’s wider offerings in insurance and financial security. Alongside Tangerine General, which provides innovative general insurance solutions, and Tangerine Life, a leader in life insurance and protection services, THT embodies Tangerine’s vision of helping people live financially secure lives.