As the world marks International Women’s Day on March 8, it is essential to recognise some of the Nigerian women breaking barriers and reshaping leadership across industries.
This year’s themes, “Accelerate Action” and “For ALL Women and Girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment,” highlight the urgency of gender parity and the need for inclusive opportunities.
Here are 15 remarkable women driving change and inspiring future generations:
1. Adaora Umeoji (Zenith Bank)
Dr. Umeoji made history as the first female Group Managing Director/CEO of Zenith Bank, assuming the role on June 1, 2024. With nearly three decades in banking, she has championed financial innovation and women’s empowerment.
2. Folake Soetan (Ikeja Electric)
As the first female CEO of Ikeja Electric, Soetan has led major transformations in Nigeria’s largest power distribution company, focusing on sustainability and customer service.
3. Miriam Olusanya (GTBank)
In July 2021, Olusanya became the first female Managing Director of GTBank. With over 20 years in banking, she has played a key role in expanding digital banking solutions.
4. Adaobi Nwakuche (Parallex Bank)
Nwakuche serves as the Chief Operating Officer of Parallex Bank, where she has driven digital banking innovations and enhanced customer experiences.
5. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe (Fidelity Bank)
Onyeali-Ikpe became the first female MD/CEO of Fidelity Bank in January 2021. She has been instrumental in the bank’s growth and expansion strategies.
6. Halima Buba (SunTrust Bank)
Buba was appointed MD/CEO of SunTrust Bank in January 2021. With over 22 years in banking, she is dedicated to financial inclusion and ethical banking.
7. Yetunde Oni (Union Bank)
Oni became Union Bank’s first female MD/CEO in January 2024. She previously led Standard Chartered Bank, Sierra Leone, where she spearheaded financial reforms.
8. Tomi Somefun (Unity Bank)
Somefun has served as MD/CEO of Unity Bank since 2015. A fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), she has championed financial literacy and economic empowerment programs.
9. Patience Dappa (Keystone Bank)
Dappa has led Keystone Bank’s digital transformation and customer-focused initiatives, reinforcing its market position.
10. Victoria Ajayi (Access Bank)
As the Executive Director of Personal Banking at Access Bank, Ajayi has been a driving force in promoting financial inclusion and tailored banking solutions.
11. Uzo Oshogwe (Afriland Properties Plc)
Oshogwe oversees real estate development and management as MD/CEO of Afriland Properties, playing a key role in shaping Nigeria’s property sector.
12. Yemisi Edun (FCMB)
Edun became the first female MD/CEO of First City Monument Bank (FCMB) in July 2021. She has led strategic reforms to enhance the bank’s financial standing.
13. Kafilat Araoye (LOTUS Bank)
Araoye, appointed MD/CEO of LOTUS Bank in 2020, has over 30 years in banking and has pioneered ethical and sustainable banking practices.
14. Bukola Smith (FSDH Merchant Bank)
Since April 2021, Smith has led FSDH Merchant Bank as its MD. With 29 years of experience, she has focused on strategic expansion and corporate governance.
15. Owen Omogiafo (Transcorp Plc)
Omogiafo, President/Group CEO of Transnational Corporation of Nigeria Plc (Transcorp), leads the conglomerate’s interests in power, hospitality, and oil & gas.
International Women’s Day (IWD) is a global celebration of women’s achievements and a call to action for gender equality.
The first official celebration was in 1911, stemming from early 20th-century labour movements in North America and Europe.
