Ab initio, when people talk about women blazing a trail across Africa one name that stands out is Ibukun Awosika. She is not just a name but a force that has shattered many ceilings, especially in the male-dominated banking industry. In a society where women have often been restricted by tradition and societal expectations, she has not only broken through the barriers but also paved the way for others to follow. Ibukun Awosika’s journey extends beyond the banking sector. As a successful entrepreneur, author, pastor and speaker, she has left an indelible mark in various industries, inspiring countless women to aim higher. She is also a well-respected entrepreneur and banking guru.
Born on December 24, 1962, in Ibadan, Ibukun Awosika was the third child in a family of seven. Ibukun attended St. Paul’s African Church Primary School, Lagos, and Methodist Girls’ High School, Yaba, Lagos, for her primary and secondary education, respectively. Her academic brilliance earned her a place at the prestigious University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University), where she studied Chemistry. However, her interests were not limited to science. Even as a young woman, Ibukun had a keen interest in business and leadership. She recognised early on that the road to success for women in Nigeria was not straightforward, and she was prepared to create her own path.
After her university education, she furthered her studies in management and finance. She attended notable institutions like the Lagos Business School and the IESE Business School in Spain, where she sharpened her leadership and business skills. These foundations laid the groundwork for her eventual entry into the corporate world, where she would become a trailblazer.
Ibukun’s entry into the corporate world was unconventional. She did not start her career in banking, nor did she inherit a legacy in the financial sector. Instead, her first major step in the business world was in furniture manufacturing, an industry largely dominated by men in Nigeria. In 1989, Ibukun founded her company, Quebees Limited, which later evolved into The Chair Centre, a leading furniture manufacturing company. This venture was not only a success but a testament to her ability to excel in male-dominated industries.
Her decision to venture into furniture manufacturing was driven by her interest in creating value and building sustainable businesses. The Chair Centre grew rapidly, becoming a reputable name in the Nigerian business landscape. Her success in this field caught the attention of many, including corporate boards and financial institutions, opening doors for her to serve on the boards of major companies.
In 2015, Ibukun Awosika made history by becoming the first female Chairman of First Bank of Nigeria, one of the largest and most respected banks in the country. Her appointment was a groundbreaking moment, not just for her personally but for women across Nigeria. The banking industry in Nigeria had long been dominated by men, with very few women rising to leadership positions, let alone chairing major banks.
Ibukun’s appointment as Chairman was a powerful symbol of progress and a clear indication that gender barriers in the corporate world were being dismantled. Under her leadership, First Bank continued to grow, navigating the challenges of a changing financial landscape while maintaining its reputation as a leading financial institution.
As Chairman, Ibukun focused on fostering innovation, ethical banking practices, and customer satisfaction. She brought a fresh perspective to the bank, encouraging the adoption of new technologies and strategies that would keep First Bank competitive in an increasingly digital world. Her leadership style was characterised by her focus on integrity, accountability, and social responsibility.
One of her key contributions to the banking sector was her emphasis on financial inclusion. She recognised that many Nigerians, especially women and those in rural areas, lacked access to formal banking services. Under her guidance, First Bank expanded its services to reach more people, helping to bridge the financial gap and bring more Nigerians into the banking system.
Beyond banking, Ibukun Awosika has been a vocal advocate for women’s empowerment in business and leadership. She has consistently spoken about the importance of women breaking free from societal limitations and pursuing their ambitions, regardless of the obstacles they may face.
Through her personal example and her public engagements, Ibukun has inspired countless women to aim higher. She has often spoken about the challenges she faced as a woman in a male-dominated business world, from being underestimated to facing gender bias. Yet, rather than allowing these challenges to hold her back, she used them as motivation to push forward.
Ibukun is also the founder of the Women in Management, Business, and Public Service (WIMBIZ), a Nigerian non-profit organisation that focuses on empowering women to achieve leadership roles in management, business, and public service. WIMBIZ has played a crucial role in mentoring and supporting women entrepreneurs and professionals, providing them with the tools and networks they need to succeed.
Through her work with WIMBIZ and other platforms, Ibukun has become a leading voice for gender equality in Nigeria. She believes that empowering women is not just a matter of fairness but is essential for national development. By ensuring that women have equal opportunities in education, business, and leadership, Nigeria can tap into the full potential of its population.
Ibukun Awosika’s impact is not limited to the corporate world. She is also known for her philanthropic work and advocacy for social causes. She has used her platform to raise awareness about issues such as education, entrepreneurship, and poverty alleviation.
Her foundation, The Ibukun Awosika Leadership Academy, focuses on training young people to become ethical leaders and entrepreneurs. The academy provides leadership training, mentoring, and resources to help young people realise their potential and contribute positively to society.
Ibukun is also a strong advocate for sustainable development and corporate social responsibility. She believes that businesses have a responsibility to give back to the communities in which they operate and to ensure that their operations are sustainable. Under her leadership, First Bank increased its focus on corporate social responsibility, supporting initiatives in education, healthcare, and environmental sustainability.
In addition to her business achievements, Ibukun Awosika is a respected author and public speaker. She has written several books, including “The Girl Entrepreneurs” and “Business His Way”, where she shares her insights on entrepreneurship, leadership, and faith. Her books are widely read, and her writing has inspired many young entrepreneurs, particularly women, to pursue their business dreams with integrity and resilience.
As a public speaker, Ibukun is in high demand both in Nigeria and internationally. She has spoken at various conferences and events, where she shares her journey and offers practical advice on leadership, business strategy, and personal growth. Her speaking engagements have further solidified her reputation as a thought leader and a role model for women in business.
She is a member of the Nigerian Economic Summit Group; a member of the board of the Nigerian Sovereign Wealth Fund; a former Chairperson of the Board of Trustees of Women in Management, Business and Public Service; and a member of IESE’s International Advisory Board. She also sits on the board of Digital Jewel Limited and Cadbury Nigeria Plc. She is a fellow of the African Leadership Initiative, and Aspen Global Leadership Network.
Today, Ibukun continues to be a powerful voice for women’s empowerment, leadership, and ethical business practices. Her work in the corporate world, philanthropy, and advocacy has left an indelible mark on Nigeria and beyond. Ibukun Awosika has not only paved the way for women in Nigerian banking but has also inspired women in various sectors to aim higher and break through societal limitations.
