#IWD2025: Ngozi Okonjo Iweala, Oluwatosin Olaseinde, Bola Adesola, Arunma Oteh, Halima Buba, Nimi Akinkugbe, Sola David-Borha, Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe and more! These are Nigeria’s 100 Most Influential Women In Finance for 2025!

Since 2015, Leading Ladies Africa has spotlighted the brilliance, resilience, and audacity of Nigerian women who refuse to be sidelined. 

Through the #LLA100Women list, we have celebrated changemakers in politics, business, arts, activism, technology, and more. This year, we turn the spotlight on a sector where women’s leadership has seen a meteoric rise: Finance.

Nigerian women in finance are rewriting the rules and reshaping the industry. They are leading financial institutions, designing policies, managing billion-dollar transactions, shaping economies and making financial inclusion mainstream. 

According to Women’s World Banking, Nigeria’s finance sector has witnessed the highest increase in female leadership over the last decade. With 11 women currently serving as Chief Executive Officers of major banks, no other industry has made such visible strides.

“It is evident to see that Nigeria’s finance industry is leading the way in what it means to advance gender-inclusive leadership,” says Francesca Uriri, Founder of Leading Ladies Africa. “With women currently at the helm of major institutions within the finance sector, we see the impact that has on businesses, on the economy, on employee sentiment and with career development. The #LLA100WomenInFinance edition seeks to highlight the importance of female leadership, inclusion, and economic justice for women, using that as a medium to continually dismantle gender norms and systemic and cultural biases.”

The women highlighted in this list, prove that economic transformation isn’t just about markets and money—it’s about access, opportunity, and equity.

Let’s meet the 100 Women defining finance in Nigeria and beyond:

Abiola Bawuah — She is the Regional Chief Executive Officer of United Bank For Africa  West Africa, overseeing the bank’s operations in nine West African countries. As the first indigenous CEO of a Pan African Bank and the first female CEO to lead UBA Ghana, Abiola has transformed the institution significantly, growing its branch network from 25 to 28 and expanding its ATM presence from 37 to over 60 Visa, Verve and Mastercard enabled machines across major cities in Ghana.

Abiola’s exceptional leadership has earned her numerous accolades, including the CIMG Marketing Woman of the Year, Finance Personality of the Year Award, and a place on the Woman Rising inspiring list of Top 50 Women Corporate Leaders in Ghana.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

Adaora Umeoji — She is the Group Managing Director/CEO of Zenith Bank Plc, making history as the first female GMD/CEO since the bank’s inception. She has nearly three decades of banking experience, including 26 years at Zenith Bank, where she served as Deputy Managing Director since 2016 and established herself as a leading figure in the banking sector. She currently chairs Zenith Nominees Limited and is serving as a non-executive director of Zenith Bank Ghana Plc.

Adaora Umeoji is a Certificated Professional Banker of the Chartered Banker Institute, and a distinguished fellow of numerous professional bodies. Her commitment to service is exemplified through her foundations – Pink Breath Cancer Care Foundation and Adorable Foundation, which educates, supports cancer patients, promotes healthcare programs across Nigeria with a focus on educating and providing for indigent children, particularly the Girl-Child. 

Adaorie Osademey Udechukwu — She is a Senior Gender Advisor at the International Finance Corporation (IFC), where she leads the Nigeria2Equal program and co-leads She Wins Africa, bringing her expertise in operations management and organizational development to advance gender equality initiatives. Prior to her current role at IFC, she made a significant impact as Head of Women Banking at Access Bank, where she led the W Initiative supporting women across multiple African markets and secured three consecutive Central Bank awards for Excellence in Women’s Economic Empowerment.

She is a dedicated gender expert and finance professional with 17 years of banking industry experience, currently serving as an Advisory Board Member at Shecluded while actively mentoring a network of young female professionals. Through her leadership, she has empowered over four thousand Women-owned Small and Medium Enterprises (WSMEs) with loans and provided non-financial services to more than fifty thousand women, demonstrating her commitment to women’s economic advancement across Africa.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

Adebimpe Olambiwonnu — She is the Chief Financial Officer at Sterling Financial Holdings Company, where she has been instrumental in developing processes for monitoring the organization’s long-term and short-term financial results. Under her financial leadership, Sterling Bank has achieved significant growth, including a 206.4% share price appreciation in 2023 and a net income of N16.5 billion in the first nine months of 2023, representing a 23.04% year-over-year increase.

Adebimpe is a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria and an associate member of the Chartered Institute of Taxation, bringing extensive expertise to her role. Her career began at NAL Bank, Nigeria’s premier merchant bank, before transitioning to Sterling Bank following its merger with four other banks. During her tenure, the bank has shown remarkable growth, with its asset base reaching N2.24 trillion by September 2023, marking a 20.9% increase from the previous year.

Adeola Azeez — She is a Partner and West Africa Representative at Sigma Risk, an international financial crime risk consultancy headquartered in the United Kingdom, bringing over three decades of expertise in governance, business development, and financial crime compliance. Adeola also doubles as the Director/Deputy Country Representative at Deutsche Bank Nigeria, where she pioneered the current system of Correspondent Banking in Nigeria and successfully managed relationships between Deutsche Bank offshore and Nigerian banking institutions.

Adeola is a passionate advocate for women’s socio-economic development, serving as one of the founding members of Women in Management, Business and Public Service (WIMBIZ). Currently, she contributes to public service through platforms like FixPolitics, focusing on Nigeria’s polity development.

Adesola Sotande-Peters —- She is the Executive Director of Program Finance at Mastercard Foundation, having previously served as CFO Africa at Godrej Consumer Products Limited until March 2024. Her historic career includes being the first Nigerian and first female Vice President of Finance at Unilever Nigeria and Unilever Ghana, where she received multiple accolades including the Great Place to Work Exceptional Female Leader Award 2019 and CFO of the Year (FMCG Category) 2017.

Adesola is a Fellow of multiple professional bodies including the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA), and the Institute of Credit Administration (ICA), complementing her MBA from Manchester Business School. Her commitment to leadership development extends through her board positions at LEAP Africa, LONADEK Nigeria, SYGEN Pharmaceutical, and her role as Chairperson at Women Empowered for Leadership Advancement and Development (WELEAD). 

Adesuwa Okunbo Rhodes — She is the Founder of Aruwa Capital Management, one of the few women-owned and managed early-stage growth equity funds in Africa, focusing on untapped investment opportunities in West Africa’s small to lower mid-market. At 29, she became one of the youngest female private equity fund managers in Africa and made history as the first female solo GP to raise more than $10 million in an institutional first fund in Nigeria. Under her leadership, Aruwa has invested over $2 million in businesses across sectors like healthcare, financial services, renewable energy, consumer goods, agri-processing, and technology, prioritizing enterprises that empower women or cater to the $15 trillion female economy.

Adesuwa is an accomplished finance professional with 15 years of experience in investment banking and private equity, including work at global institutions like J.P. Morgan. Her achievements have earned her numerous recognitions, including being named among the Top 35 Women Moving Africa Forward in 2020, Top 100 global leaders combining profit and purpose by Meaningful Business in 2021, and Top 100 African leaders under 40 by Institut Choiseul in 2022. 

Aishah Ahmad — She is an accomplished central banker and financial expert who served as Deputy Governor for Financial System Stability at the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) from 2018 to 2023, becoming both the first female and youngest Deputy Governor in that role in over four decades. During Aishah’s tenure, she led significant financial reforms including the Banks & Other Financial Institutions Act of 2020, and under her leadership of the national strategy, Nigeria’s financial inclusion improved markedly from 63% to 74%, representing the highest overall percentage increase to date.

Aishah is a distinguished board leader serving on the boards of the Financial Alliance for Women (US) and SOS Children’s Villages International (Austria), with prior experience chairing several major institutions including the Nigeria Interbank Settlement System and Nigeria Commodity Exchange. As an advocate for gender equity, she championed women’s leadership at the CBN and during her tenure as executive chairperson of WIMBIZ (2015-2017): she launched the ‘Big Sister Program’ which has mentored over 7,000 teenage girls in public secondary schools across Nigeria.

Amaka Nsofor — She is the Principal, Debt Capital Markets at the International Finance Corporation, World Bank Group, also doubling as a leading debt capital market professional whose global expertise spans Africa, Central and Eastern Europe, and the Middle East, significantly contributing to the development of capital markets in Sub-Saharan Africa through groundbreaking initiatives. Amaka has been instrumental in developing domestic capital markets and facilitating international capital market access for corporate institutions, while driving sustainable growth through climate and social bond initiatives.

She is also the Founder of the Female Scholars Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering young women from rural areas through tertiary education, guidance, and mentorship. Through this platform, she focuses on equipping these women with the necessary skills and knowledge to integrate into modern society and secure reputable professional positions globally.

Arunma Oteh — She is an Executive in Residence and a member of the Global Leadership Council at Saïd Business School, University of Oxford, a role she has held since 2019. Previously, Arunma was Vice President and Treasurer at the World Bank, where she managed assets totaling $200 billion for the World Bank Group, central banks, and sovereign wealth funds. Her leadership ensured the World Bank’s reputation as a prudent and innovative borrower in over 50 currencies and expanded financial advisory services for clients. With priceless insights gleaned from her vast experiences, Arunma released her highly anticipated book “All Hands On Deck: Unleashing Prosperity Through World Class Capital Markets” in January. 

Before her tenure at the World Bank, she was Director General of Nigeria’s Securities and Exchange Commission where she revitalized the capital markets post-global financial crisis and served on Nigeria’s Economic Management Team. Arunma also held various leadership roles at the African Development Bank, including Group Vice President for Corporate Services and Group Treasurer. 

Ayodele Olojede — She is the Division Head for Retail Banking at Wema Bank Plc, appointed after serving as Group Head of Emerging Businesses at Access Bank until August 2023. Ayodele has over 20 years of operational banking experience across Africa and North America at institutions including HSBC and Skye Bank. She has successfully spearheaded transformative initiatives including the disbursement of 130,000 interest-free microloans and the implementation of an immersion fund project aimed at supporting 10 million micro-entrepreneurs across Africa.

Ayodele is a recognized thought leader in financial markets and a member of the G20 Global Partnership for Financial Inclusion (GPFI) SME Finance Forum global council. She has also championed lending programs for prestigious institutions including The World Bank and the European Investment Bank, while personally supporting over 100 young students with examination fees and access to higher learning institutions. Her contributions to the MSME sector have earned her high-level commendation from the office of the Vice President of Nigeria.

Barbara Ezeife —  She is the Head, Marketing & Communications, African Subsidiaries at Access Bank. As an accomplished marketing and communications professional, she has led significant Pan-African brand campaigns, notably spearheading brand launches and reinforcement across multiple markets in many African countries. Under Babara’s leadership, marketing effectiveness increased by 133% in two years, with digital platforms showing remarkable growth: 33% increase in online followers, 63.3% in brand share of voice against competitors, and 97% in brand sentiment.

She is a pioneering force in digital transformation, having managed the launch of Nigeria’s first investment app (PayDay Investor) and an E-Commerce platform (ARM WebShop) that saw over 200% traffic increase. Barbara’s commitment to social impact is evidenced through partnerships with USAID, empowering over 1,000 youths through training and mentorship, and implementing financial literacy programs across 10 radio stations in five major Nigerian cities, while driving significant business results including funds under management inflow of over N4.2 billion.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

Bimbola Ogundare — She is the West Africa Financial Advisory Leader and Africa Corporate Finance Leader at Deloitte, with nearly two decades of experience in deal-making across Africa. Bimbola specializes in driving growth and impact in Africa’s investment landscape, leveraging her expertise in M&A, including strategy validation, valuations, due diligence, business planning, restructuring, and deal closure. She is dedicated to fostering sustainable growth in key sectors while empowering businesses to adopt transformative strategies.

Bimbola brings a blend of insight and innovation to her leadership and is highly skilled at leading and developing teams, with a personal mission to support Africa’s most impactful sectors and advance the continent’s economic development through strategic financial advisory services.

Bimbola Wright — She is the Independent & Non-Executive Director at Ecobank, bringing over 20 years of board-level experience to various private sector and NGO entities. Bimbola is also the Chairman of a pioneer digital clean beauty products company and serves on multiple boards and committees, including the Board of Governors of IoD Nigeria Centre for Corporate Governance, where she leverages her expertise in audit, compliance, governance, credit, and investment oversight.

She is a distinguished banking professional with more than 30 years of experience in corporate, project, and trade finance, having successfully established corporate banking and wealth management functions throughout her career. Bimbola is a Fellow of both the Chartered Institute of Directors Nigeria and the Nigeria Institute of Management. She also chairs the WIMBoard Working Committee promoting women’s board participation, while actively coaching senior executives.

Bode Abifarin — She is the Founder and CEO of Strata Advisory Limited, a consultancy for scaling businesses, and serves as a technical resource for the Federal Ministry of Communication, Innovation, and Digital Economy on the Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) project. Most recently, she served as the COO of Flutterwave, where she developed scalable processes and drove global expansion across Africa and emerging markets, building upon her previous role as Associate Director at KPMG where she established industry KPIs for the Nigerian banking sector.

Bode is an acclaimed voice in fintech and financial services, recognized among the ‘Global Top Women in Fintech’ and consistently honored for her contributions to the industry. With over 21 years of experience, she has demonstrated expertise in business strategy, transformation, and customer analytics, while maintaining a decade-long commitment to mentoring entrepreneurs through Fate Foundation and sharing insights as a sought-after speaker on global platforms.

Bola Adesola — She is the Chairman of Ecobank Nigeria and the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund. Her distinguished banking career spans over 32 years, including roles as Managing Director/CEO of Standard Chartered Bank Nigeria and West Africa (2010-2019), Executive Director at First Bank Nigeria Plc, Managing Director of Kakawa Discount House, and senior leadership positions at Citibank in Nigeria and Tanzania.

Bola is a respected corporate leader and mentor who co-founded Women in Management, Business and Public Service (WIMBIZ) in 2001, serving on its Board of Trustees. Her extensive board experience includes serving as the United Nations Global Compact Board Member and Co Vice-Chair, while currently holding positions on the boards of Imperial Logistics Plc and as a trustee of the Healthcare Federation of Nigeria. Bola actively contributes to the development of Nigeria’s financial sector through various professional associations and committees.

Bolaji Agbede — She is the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Access Holdings. With over 27 years of banking sector experience, Bolaji has been instrumental in several successful mergers and acquisitions, including integrations with Marina International Bank, Capital Bank, Intercontinental Bank Plc, and Diamond Bank Plc. Her professional journey includes significant roles at Guaranty Trust Bank and JKG Limited before joining Access Bank in 2003. 

Bolaji is a champion for workplace equality and employee welfare, and has introduced progressive initiatives like extended maternity leave, paternity leave, and the Access Women Network. Bolaji’s impressive educational background and participation in prestigious leadership programs at IMD and London Business School, further demonstrates her commitment to continuous professional development and organizational transformation.

Bukola Adisa — She is the Chief Controls Officer, Digital X at NatWest Group, following senior roles at HSBC, JP Morgan, NatWest, Barclays, and Deloitte. Alongside this, Bukola is the Founder/CEO of Career Masterclass, a leading online career development platform that has impacted thousands of professionals through career development content, masterclasses, coaching, and mentoring.

Bukola is a celebrated advocate for workplace diversity and women’s advancement, recognized through multiple prestigious honors including consecutive listings in the PowerList (2018-2020), the Financial Times’ Empower List of top 100 Ethnic Minorities in the UK, Outstanding Woman in Banking and Finance by PRECIOUS Awards and the FT HERoes list. Through Career Masterclass’s annual STRETCH Conference and her personal commitment to mentoring and sponsoring BAME professionals, she actively creates promotion opportunities and provides career guidance to underrepresented groups in the workplace.

Bukola Smith — She is the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of FSDH Merchant Bank, bringing over 30 years of banking expertise in strategy, innovation, and commercial leadership. Prior to this role, she served as Executive Director of Business Development at FCMB, where she managed over 200 branches nationwide and pioneered significant initiatives including the Women in Business Initiative (WIBI) and FCMB Women in Business Desk (SheVentures) to support female entrepreneurs.

Bukola is a distinguished professional who currently chairs the Bankers Committee Ethics & Professionalism sub-committee and serves on the boards of Women in Successful Careers (WISCAR) and the Toyin Oni Foundation. Bukola advocates for ethics and professionalism in banking while actively mentoring young women and teenagers, guided by her principles of Accountability, Integrity, and Resilience.​​​​​​​

Bunmi Lawson — She is the pioneer Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of EdFin Microfinance Bank Limited, Nigeria’s first specialized education finance bank. Under her leadership since its inception in 2019, EdFin has delivered innovative financial solutions to support the education ecosystem, improving access to quality education for low-income households. Additionally, Bunmi serves as a Director of Enhancing Financial Innovation & Access (EFInA), driving initiatives to promote financial inclusion in Nigeria.

Before EdFin, She was the founding Managing Director/CEO of ACCION Microfinance Bank, where she transformed the institution into one of Nigeria’s leading microfinance banks, achieving profitability within its first year and scaling its operations nationwide. She has also led impactful roles as the Executive Director of FATE Foundation and as Finance Director at Tequila Direct. Bunmi is a  Fellow of several professional institutes, including the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria. Her extensive board memberships and mentorship roles underscore her commitment to driving social impact and economic development in Nigeria.

Carol Oyedeji — She is the Group Commercial Banking Head at Ecobank Transnational Incorporated, bringing over 30 years of banking and corporate administration experience to this role. Prior to joining Ecobank, she served as Regional Head of Client Acquisition & Relationship for Africa and the Middle East at Standard Chartered Bank, overseeing retail distribution across 14 countries. Carol also held key positions including Head of Business Banking for Standard Chartered Africa and Regional Head for Consumer Banking in West Africa.

Carol is an accomplished professional with multiple advanced degrees and extensive experience that demonstrates her expertise in both executive and board-level roles.

Dr. Cherry Eromosele — She is the Executive Vice President and Group Chief Marketing and Communications Officer at Interswitch, Africa’s leading integrated digital payments and commerce company, where she drives innovative marketing strategies for the entire brand portfolio, including flagship brands Verve and Quickteller. With over 25 years of experience across beverages, consumer goods, telecoms, and technology sectors, Cherry has built and led high-performing marketing teams at industry giants including Diageo/Guinness, MTN, and GlaxoSmithKline (GSK).

Cherry is a highly accomplished marketing professional recognized as ‘Marketing Personality of the Year’ (2015) in Nigeria and among the Top-50 Female Marketing Professionals in Nigeria (2020). Her expertise spans product marketing, customer acquisition, marketing automation, and digital analytics. Cherry is a fellow of the National Institute of Marketing of Nigeria (NIMN)and she consistently delivers exceptional results across diverse industry sectors through data-driven marketing leadership.

Chinasa Collins-Ogbuo— She is the Advocacy & Communications Lead at Enhancing Financial Innovation and Access (EFInA), where she champions policy and regulatory changes to remove barriers preventing vulnerable Nigerians from accessing formal financial services. Through data-driven advocacy campaigns and collaborative work with public sector officials, Chinasa creates pathways for marginalized populations to access financial services, including helping citizens obtain formal documentation for bank accounts.

Chinasa has nearly 2 decades of experience across financial services, development, and consulting sectors, including roles at PwC and Africa Practice.  She leverages her expertise in program management, product development, and stakeholder engagement to drive meaningful change. As an Obama Africa Leader, she remains passionate about empowering children and women by advocating for fair access to economic resources regardless of social background, ethnicity, or gender.

Chinwe Bode-Akinwande — She is the Head of Sponsorships, Partnerships, Events and Collaborations at First Bank of Nigeria Limited, with over 20 years of distinguished experience in strategy, digital marketing, and brand management. As a Harvard-trained consultant, she successfully led FirstBank’s Brand Refresh in 2013 and managed the bank’s 125th Anniversary project in 2019. Her recognition as one of the TOP 50 Most Influential Women in Marketing & Communications by WIMCA reflects her significant impact in the industry.

Chinwe is also the Founder of the CBA Foundation, focusing on empowering underprivileged widows and disadvantaged children in society. Her extensive career includes a notable role at UNICEF as Sales & Marketing Development Manager, where she handled private fund-raising and partnerships across African regions. With core strengths in digital innovations, integrated marketing, and partnership building, Chinwe combines her corporate expertise with humanitarian advocacy, demonstrating exceptional leadership in both the business and philanthropic sectors.

Chinwe Egwim — She is the Chief Economist & Director of the Research/Impact Lab at Collaborative for Frontier Finance (CFF). She was also recently named a World Economic Forum (WEF) Young Global Leader in April 2024. Her influential role extends to serving on Nigeria’s Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms Committee, and she was awarded a Doctorate (Honoris Causa) by the United Nations via UN-POLAC and UNESCO for her impactful research and policy analysis. With over 1,000 economic articles and reports to her name, Chinwe has established herself as a trusted authority for investors, policymakers, and corporate leaders, while also serving as a National Consultant for the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa.

Chinwe is an accomplished author whose works include “Understanding Economic Jargon” and the children’s comic book “Super E: The Inflation Smackdown,” making economics accessible to diverse audiences. Her achievements have earned her numerous recognitions, including the “Positive Role Model – West Africa” at the 2021 Accenture Gender Mainstreaming Awards and being named among the “Most Influential People of African Descent (MIPAD) 100 under 40.” Chinwe actively champions gender equity through her leadership roles in WIMBIZ and the Professional Women Bankers organization, while also dedicating herself to mentoring young professionals through various prestigious programs.

Chinwe Iloghalu — She is the Acting Managing Director/CEO of Nova Bank, appointed following her impactful role as Executive Director of Corporate and Commercial Banking. With nearly three decades of experience in Nigeria’s banking sector, she has demonstrated exceptional expertise in business development, relationship management, and strategic leadership across energy, corporate, commercial, and digital banking segments, consistently delivering sustainable value for stakeholders.

Chinwe is also a Fellow of the Institute of Credit Administration (FICA) and has enhanced her leadership capabilities through executive programs at prestigious institutions including Said Business School Oxford, Harvard Business School, and Wharton. Prior to joining Nova Bank, she served as Executive Director of Lagos & Corporate Bank at Polaris Bank and held a board position at the Financial Institution Training Centre (FITC), where she contributed to shaping Nigeria’s financial sector through strategic initiatives and relationship building.

Chioma Etiaba-Nwankwo — She is the Regional Bank Head and a Senior Executive at Fidelity Bank, where she has significantly expanded the bank’s trade finance portfolio to $210 million and increased the agent banking network by over 550% year-over-year. Her leadership in financial inclusion and women’s economic empowerment is demonstrated through successful initiatives including the launch of female-focused propositions and the disbursement of over N22.6 billion in intervention funds, micro-loans, and consumer loans. She has also gained international recognition as a thought leader, speaking at prestigious forums including the Financial Times UK Wealth Summit and Ngaza Forum in Rwanda.

Chioma is a board member of Alliances for Africa (AfA) and serves as the Chairperson of the Women Economic Empowerment Committee at Fidelity Bank. Her 25-year career in financial services has earned numerous accolades, including recognition from Financial Times UK for Best Private Banking in Nigeria (2014) and Best Digital Bank for Entrepreneurs in Africa (2019). As a member of Women in Management, Business & Public Service (WIMBIZ), she continues to champion initiatives that promote financial inclusion and economic development across various sectors, from food and beverages to manufacturing and agro-commodities.

Daphne Akatugba — She is the Group Head of Customer Experience at Alternative Bank, with over a decade of experience in building and scaling marketing initiatives across diverse industries. Her career journey includes pivotal roles at Sterling Bank Plc, where she served as Marketing Manager for Specialized Products, External Communication Manager, and Social Media Manager. Daphne also briefly held the position of Senior Brand Marketing Manager at The Alternative Bank. With experience spanning public relations, social media management, and customer engagement, she continues to make a meaningful impact in the marketing and financial services sectors.

In the past four years, Daphne has successfully led teams to design and implement customer experience strategies that have enhanced customer satisfaction, retention, and brand loyalty in the financial sector. She is a creative problem-solver and collaborative leader, who is deeply committed to delivering business value and fostering growth within her teams and organizations.

Dayo Aderugbo — She is the Divisional Head and General Manager at the Bank of Industry (BOI), bringing over two decades of remarkable experience in banking and financial services. Dayo’s game-changing initiatives have redefined the marketing and delivery of banking products and services. At Standard Chartered Bank, where she served as Head of Corporate Affairs, Brand, and Marketing for Nigeria and West Africa, she led transformative projects, including the groundbreaking launch of the Standard Chartered Digital Bank in 2019. This initiative introduced unprecedented convenience and accessibility, accompanied by a zero-fee transaction model, revolutionizing banking in Nigeria.

Dayo is deeply committed to sustainable development and the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). She has championed women empowerment through programs like “Women in Technology,” investing nearly $600,000 in female tech entrepreneurs, and “Women Winning with Wealth (WWW),” which has on boarded over 2,000 female clients, generating significant revenue and growth opportunities. She is a Fellow of the Nigeria Institute of Marketing and an Honorary Member of the Chartered Institute of Bankers. Her accolades include Brandcom’s Top 50 Women in Marketing & Communications (2024) and multiple Global Retail Banking Innovation Awards. Dayo’s passion for sustainable, multigenerational impact continues to drive her advocacy for innovative collaborations and public-private partnerships.

Doris Uzoka Anite — She is the Minister of State for Finance in Nigeria, appointed in 2024, following her impactful tenure as Minister of Industry, Trade, and Investment. During her ministerial role in Industry, Trade, and Investment, she secured over $30 billion in foreign investments, relaunched the Nigerian Trade Policy (2023-2027), and initiated transformative programs including the National Talent Export Programme (NATEP) and Skill-UP Artisans (SUPA), which aimed to create opportunities for 10 million Nigerian artisans.

Doris is a medical doctor turned financial expert, having earned her MBBS from the University of Benin before transitioning to finance at Zenith Bank, where she rose to become Group Treasurer managing over $20 billion in assets. Her public service career began as Imo State’s first female Commissioner for Finance in 2021, where she drove significant economic growth. As a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA), she combines her diverse expertise in medicine, finance, and public administration to strengthen Nigeria’s economic framework through optimized public investments and improved fiscal efficiency.

Dr. Markie Idowu — She is the Group Managing Director/CEO of Xpress Payment Solutions Ltd, a leading Nigerian fintech company, bringing over 35 years of experience in banking and IT to the role. Dr. Markie is currently serving as an independent Non-Executive Director at Nigerian Mortgage Refinance Company and NSIA Insurance Limited, she is also the Vice-President of Council at the National Institute of Credit Administration and Chairperson of Women in Technology In Nigeria (WITIN).

As a former Executive Director at Polaris Bank and having served in leadership positions at GTBank and Fidelity Bank, she has established herself as a turnaround specialist and team builder, consistently driving significant revenue and profit growth through strategic initiatives and policy implementation.

Dr. Nkiru Olumide-Ojo —- Dr. Nkiru is the Executive Head of Africa Regions Corporate Communications, Marketing, and Corporate Social Impact at Standard Bank Group South Africa, overseeing several African countries. She is also the founder of the LightHouse Network, a non-profit organization that helps women discover their true potential and live fulfilling lives. With over two decades of experience managing the reputation of multinational and national brands in Africa, her work spans industries like financial services, aviation, telecommunications, and oil and gas. Through the LightHouse Network, she and her team have directly impacted over 5,000 youths in underserved schools by providing skill-building opportunities. The network also offers structured mentorship for young working women, empowering them to excel in their careers.  

A certified coach, public speaker, and published author, Nkiru is passionate about helping women develop strong leadership skills. She frequently organizes leadership programs through the LightHouse Women’s Network Mentoring Hub. As a sought-after speaker, she has featured at international events like the Forbes Africa Women’s Summit, the London Advertising Week, and Google’s International Women’s Day celebration. 

Ebehijie Momoh — She is the Managing Director/CEO of AfriGOPay Financial Services Limited (AFSL), a NIBSS subsidiary, appointed to lead Nigeria’s domestic card scheme initiative. Prior to this role, Ebehijie served as Area Business Head, West Africa at Mastercard, where she was instrumental in advancing innovative payment solutions and building strategic partnerships with governments and market regulators to promote cashless transactions.

Ebehijie is a seasoned banking professional whose career spans several major Nigerian financial institutions, including Standard Chartered Bank where she served as Head of Retail Banking for both Ghana and Nigeria. Her extensive experience includes senior management positions at Guaranty Trust Bank, Diamond Bank, and First City Monument Bank, where she held roles such as Assistant Vice President, Vice President, and Group Head of various divisions. 

Elizabeth Oguegbu — She is the Head of Strategic Projects & Funding at Access Bank, where she oversees initiatives across Africa and develops innovative financing solutions aligned with the Banking Group’s foreign currency funding needs. Elizabeth is passionate about expanding relationships with international development finance institutions, originating structured finance transactions, and leading advisory bids while maintaining the bank’s strong reputation in financial markets.

Elizabeth’s career began at Standard Chartered Bank Nigeria in 2006, where she specialized in providing innovative derivatives solutions for Currency, Rates, and Commodity exposures. She offers practical expertise in financial markets, whilst serving diverse clients from multinationals to local corporates and financial institutions throughout Africa.

Elsie Ofulue — She is the Executive Director and Head of EMEA Internal Communication for Technology at Morgan Stanley, where she has cultivated over a decade expertise in strategic messaging and change management. Elsie leads initiatives that foster transparency, alignment, and unity within the technology division, ensuring impactful internal communication that reflects the company’s corporate values. In parallel, she serves as the creative force behind EVENTS ON WHEELS, an award-winning events company renowned for delivering exceptional, inclusive experiences that celebrate diversity and cultural authenticity.

Recognized as an inspirational leader in both the technology and event planning sectors, Elsie is dedicated to innovation, excellence, and fostering impactful outcomes. Her unwavering commitment to diversity and inclusion extends beyond events to creating environments that amplify cultural richness and representation. Her dual leadership roles showcase her passion for building cohesive teams and championing creativity in every endeavor.

Emem Usoro — She is the Deputy Governor in charge of Operations at the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), overseeing critical functions such as banking operations, currency operations, information technology, and reserve management. Before joining the CBN, she was the Executive Director of Nigeria North Bank at United Bank for Africa (UBA), where she supervised 151 branches and drove market leadership initiatives across Northern Nigeria.

Emem’s career spans various roles, including regional executive at Bank PHB (now Keystone Bank) and regional director for Lagos Island at UBA. She is also a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN), she has completed numerous international courses on leadership, marketing, and business development.

Folakemi J Fatogbe — She currently serves as the Board Credit & Risk Committee Chairman at the Development Bank of Nigeria Plc. With over three decades of expertise, she has become a distinguished force in central, development, and commercial banking, as well as in corporate governance, consulting, and entrepreneurship.  As an entrepreneur, she is the creative director and founder of OYAATO, an energizing new clothing brand born in Africa, and the CEO and founder of The De-Risking Lab.  She is also a pioneering member of the Ekiti State Economic Management Team. 

Folakemi played a key role as the pioneer Director of Risk Management at the Central Bank of Nigeria, where she developed tailored policies and procedures, fostering a culture of risk awareness and robust controls. She has held prominent positions, including Chairman of the Risk Management Association of Nigeria (RIMAN), pioneer Chairman of the banking industry-wide Chief Risk Officers’ Forum, and board member for Fountain Holdings Limited, Hampton Preparatory School, and Ileri Foundation.

Folasade Femi Lawal —- She is the Country Manager, Area Business Head, West Africa at Mastercard.  Before becoming chairman of the board, she was the country manager and area business head of West Africa. With her extensive experience which spans Retail Banking, Business Advisory Services, and Telecoms, she has established herself as a highly sought-after finance professional by International & Local businesses.  In 2021, she successfully led the largest card base in Nigeria and the second-largest in West Africa at First Bank Nigeria, overseeing over 11 million cards and driving transaction values in the millions of dollars annually as AGM (cards and Messaging Business). 

Drawing from her diverse background and skills, she leads Mastercard operations in West Africa by fostering innovation, expanding financial inclusion, and empowering individuals and businesses across the region through Mastercard’s cutting-edge digital payment solutions.

Foyinsola Akinjayeju — She is the Chief Executive Officer at EFInA, an organization with focus on research, innovation, digital financial services, advocacy and capacity building to drive financial inclusion in Nigeria. She is also the Lead Consultant at Nestor & Alfreda. With over 20 years of experience across multiple industries, she has built a strong track record in crafting and driving corporate, business, and operational strategies focused on growth, competitiveness, and sustainability. Foyinsola is also a skilled facilitator, known for inspiring strategic thinking and effectively engaging boards, management teams, staff, and consultants to achieve meaningful change and improved effectiveness.  

As a business leader, she has successfully navigated the education sector and the oil and gas services industry, gaining experience in organizational design, business setup, management, and fundraising. She is also adept at developing and launching new businesses, both within the consulting space and across industries. Foyinsola’s experience extends beyond Nigeria, with work spanning the Republic of Benin, Togo, Burkina Faso, and Japan. In Japan, she managed the Africa Desk, promoting “Into-Africa” investments by Japanese companies and other businesses from East Asia. 

Funke Amobi —- Funke Amobi is a global thought leader currently holding the position of Deputy Head of Operations at Stanbic IBTC Bank Plc.  She also oversees Group vendor management, procurement, and Group Real Estate Management. Drawing from her extensive experience across Oil & Gas, Banking & Telecommunications sectors, she possesses executive oversight for core banking operations, operations shared service delivery, enterprise data office, business transformation, and strategic customer experience management. 

She serves on the Advisory Boards of Lancaster University Management School (LUMS) in the UK and Pan-Atlantic University (LBS) in Nigeria. Funke is also a Non-Executive Director at Stanbic IBTC Asset Management Ltd and sits on the boards of several not-for-profit organizations, including WISCAR (Women in Successful Careers).

Funke Ladimeji  — She is the Executive Director and COO for Coronation Merchant Bank with nearly 30 years of international experience shaping strategy and driving excellence and performance in banking and financial services, including 14 years at JPMorgan Chase and 12 years in Africa Emerging Markets.  As an Executive Director at Coronation Merchant Bank, she is leading the bank’s transformation into a modern investment institution, focusing on diversifying and growing its revenue for long-term sustainability and impact. Her deep understanding of global markets and investment banking products drives her ability to create tailored strategies for growth and transformation. 

Under her leadership, the bank has undergone significant changes, including two major acquisitions, technological advancements, and a cultural shift within the organization. These efforts have resulted in a stronger balance sheet and considerable revenue growth, positioning the bank for future success. She also conceived and implemented business strategy across organic and inorganic growth, overseeing investment in people and technology, and driving coherence and collaboration across teams and functions.

Funmi Ade-Ajayi Ogunlesi —- Funmi Ade-Ajayi Ogunlesi is the Head of Government Affairs for Sub-Saharan Africa and Director at Citi Bank. At Citi Bank, she has served in various lead capacities and successfully executed Nigeria’s debut $500 million Eurobond as well as its subsequent Eurobond and GDN issues in three consecutive years. With over 30 years of working within the financial sectors of Nigeria, West and Central Africa, and Sub-Saharan Africa, Funmi has successfully built strong relationships within the public sectors and with policymakers in Sub-Saharan Africa.

As the former Country Manager and Chief Commercial Officer of Citibank in Gabon, she led the local team that successfully executed the Republic of Gabon debut $1 Billion Sovereign Bond, the second country in Sub-Saharan Africa at the time. She also sits as the Board Member and Chair of the Advocacy Committee at American Business Council Nigeria, a leading nonprofit and the voice of American (and US Affiliated) Businesses operating in Nigeria.

Hadiza Ambursa —- Hadiza Ambursa is the Executive Director and Head Commercial Banking Group at Access Bank Plc. She has over two decades of banking experience from Guaranty Trust Bank and Access Bank and sits on the Boards of Access Bank Ghana Plc and Bank Directors Association of Nigeria. Her experience spans Transaction Services, the Public Sector, Commercial Banking, and Corporate Finance. Before joining Access Bank in 2003, she was a Relationship Manager in the Public Sector at Guaranty Trust Bank Plc. 

As a top banking professional, she has successfully managed relationships with high-net-worth individuals and proffered solutions and products where necessary. For her long-standing diligence with Access Holdings as a senior executive, she was vested with 1,728,395 shares in 2024, valued at N30.85 million and N31.02 million respectively.

Halima Buba —- She is the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer at SunTrust Bank Nigeria Ltd. She is also the board chair and NSIA Umuahia Diagnostic Center and Co-Founder/Executive Director of TAJ Consortium. As an accomplished financial expert with over two decade of banking experience from prominent financial institutions, such Allstates Trust Bank, Zenith Bank, Inland Bank Plc, Oceanic Bank Plc, and Ecobank Nigeria Limited, she has a proven track record of driving growth and profitability in the public and private financial services industry. 

Halima is an alumnus of the Lagos Business School’s Senior Management Programme, a Senior Honorary Member of the Chartered Institute of Bankers and a Fellow of the Institute of Management Consultants. She is deeply committed to youth and women empowerment, and consistently makes philanthropic contributions towards the girl child Education. A committed humanitarian, Hilima Buba serves as Patron, Community Project Management Committee, Michika.

Ifedayo Durosimi- Etti — She is the CEO and Founder of Herconomy, an organization dedicated to empowering women through funding, mentorship, and training opportunities. Since its launch, they have trained over 85,000 women online and offline. Selected as one of the top 10 Tech Startups in Africa by the prestigious Startup Bootcamp Accelerator Program, Herconomy is positioned to become one of the top Fintech companies in Africa. In 2021, Herconomy was also selected for NASDAQ’s Milestone Makers Program for the work being done to empower women. They are also the first Amazon recruitment partner in Nigeria with a signed partnership in 2021. 

Under her leadership with Herconomy, the organization has grown to give grants to women through the business support program called Enterprise Challenge. In 2021, Ifedayo raised $600,000 pre-seed with members of her community within 24 hours to expand the product offerings on their platform. She was also chosen as a Mandela Washington Fellow in 2021, a prestigious program by the U.S. Government for Young African Leaders. Herconomy continues to enhance Africa’s economic growth as its app offers high-yield savings accounts with up to 15% interest, financial literacy campaigns, and a vibrant community offering mentorship and networking. With over 77,000 users and $2 million processed in savings, Herconomy has become a movement in Nigeria’s finance ecosystem. 

Ifeoma Uddoh — She is a social entrepreneur and the Founder of Shecluded, Nigeria’s first fintech platform for women. With over a decade of experience in strategy consulting, analytics, and seed funding, she has worked with companies like PwC and IROKO Partners Ltd. 

Since its launch in 2019, Shecluded has grown to become a UK Tech Hub company by 2020. The Shecluded community has impacted over 20,000 entrepreneurs with in-depth financial knowledge, independence, and sustainability. Due to her expertise in gender-lens financing, Ifeoma has been featured in entrepreneurship panels and masterclasses hosted by organizations such as First Bank, EDC, FinTech Asia, and John Hopkins University. She started her business with a small team, and today, Shecluded employs 15 people. Her innovative strategies and dedication to empowering women in business are helping create a more inclusive and prosperous future.

Ireti Samuel-Ogbu — She is a distinguished businesswoman and financial leader who formerly led Citi bank as the CEO & Country Officer for Nigeria and Ghana. Under Ireti’s leadership as CEO & Country Officer, Citibank/Citigroup Inc, experienced notable successes and achievements that solidified its position as a trusted financial partner in the region of Nigeria and Ghana. Her ability to navigate complex market dynamics, leverage opportunities for growth, and foster a culture of innovation and collaboration has undoubtedly contributed to the company’s continued success. 

Ireti’s journey into the world of finance has been a relentless pursuit of excellence and a series of significant achievements and milestones within the financial industry. Beyond her professional achievements, she is involved in various initiatives aimed at promoting financial literacy, women’s empowerment, and socioeconomic development in Nigeria, Ghana, and beyond.

Iyabo Soji Okusanya — She is the Executive Director, Corporate and Investment Banking at Access Bank Plc. Before assuming this role, she was Head of Corporate Banking at Access Bank. Iyabo’s journey with Access Bank began in June 1998, marking the start of a remarkable 25-year career with the organization. Over the years, she has worn many hats, starting with Business Banking, moving to Commercial Banking, and later joining the Corporate and Investment Bank as Group Head, Telecoms. With over 30 years of banking experience, Iyabo has built a reputation for her exceptional relationship management and problem-solving skills. 

Her deep understanding of the telecommunications industry enabled her to create groundbreaking banking products that transformed the sector, delivering immense value to operators, service providers, and dealers alike. Iyabo is a Fellow of both the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria and The Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria. She has also honed her expertise through programs at Harvard Business School, IMD in Switzerland, and INSEAD in France, making her a seasoned professional with a wealth of knowledge and practical experience.

Jennifer Awirigwe — She is the Founder of Fin Tribe – a Nigerian premier women-only finance community promoting financial education and inclusion. As an award winning financial instructor and investment banker, she has helped over 20,000 women make savings and investments of over 1 billion Naira in less than 12 months. She is known as The Women Money Cheerleader, engaging a vibrant audience of over 140,000 people daily on social media. 

As a Certified Financial Education Instructor, Chartered Accountant and Stockbroker consistently empowering women to make better financial decisions through her teachings and simplified platform, she has been recognized by Eloy Awards and Africa Women CEO’s Network as one of the 50 Power People on Leadership and Advocates for Women’s Empowerment and Inclusion in Africa. Jennifer was also named one of the 100 Most Inspiring Women by Leading Ladies Africa and one of the Top 25 Women in Tech by TechUnwinding. In 2023, she was featured in the PowerWomen 100 list by Power Woman Network and recognized as one of the Top 50 Rising Motherland Moguls by She Leads Africa. 

Joke Adu —- She is the Country Head of Corporate Affairs, Brand and Marketing at Standard Chartered Bank.  As the Country Lead, she drives strategic implementation and local ideation of the Bank’s corporate affairs strategy whilst amplifying and protecting the brand in Nigeria. Joke joined Standard Chartered in 2007 and has held several senior roles in Nigeria, including Customer Service, General Management, Project Management, Sustainability, Governance, Marketing, and Brand Management. She has also taken on leadership roles in other countries, such as Côte d’Ivoire, Mauritius, and The Gambia.  

She recently served as a regional lead for Communications and Sustainability Community Impact in the Africa and Middle East Centre of Excellence. Joke is a graduate of Standard Chartered’s Africa and Middle East Emerging Leaders Program and a Certified Neuroleadership Coach, supporting the bank’s global IGNITE program, which focuses on employees’ professional well-being.

Kafilat Araoye — Kafilat Araoye is the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer at Lotus Bank. With over 25 years of experience in banking, Kafilat has gained expertise in nearly every aspect of the industry. Her skills include International and Domestic Operations, Payments, General Management, Business Development, Risk Management, Human Resources, and Strategy.  

She has served on the Chartered Institute of Bankers’ Committee on Capacity Building and Certification and is also a member of the Advocacy & Strategy Committee of the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria. Drawing from her several financial qualifications and international courses, she has been part of several Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Implementation Committees on some Settlement and Payment solutions and also represented Nigeria at the Banking Techniques and Practice committee of International Chamber of Commerce.

Khadijah Abu —- Khadijah Abu is the Head of Product Expansion at Paystack, with over 15 years of working experience in various capacities across Market Expansion, Product Management, Strategy, Operations and Business Process Re-Engineering. Over the years spent at Paystack, she has managed products that have resulted in billions of dollars annually and led design and implementation of payments automation projects. 

Functioning as Head of product expansion, she is in charge of getting core products into more markets on the continent, finding product and market fit in each new country, as well as scaling acquisition and retention efforts. She continues to deliver a wide range of financial technology solutions that impact  multitudes  of individuals and businesses to access financial technology services.

Korede Demola-Adeniyi —- She is a Board Member at the Alternative Bank – a member of the Sterling Financial Holdings Group. Before her new role, she was Executive Director of Sales (South). Korede’s proficiency spans across several portfolios including executive leadership, wealth management, and Treasury management. With a solid background in retail banking, she brings a holistic approach to financial management that is both strategic and results-driven. 

As a banking professional she has led global banks and other financial entities to significant revenue increases and more productive business partnerships. Previously as Group Head of Personal Banking at Ecobank, Korede boosted the bank’s visibility by partnering with global companies and introducing new revenue streams, like a concierge service for travelers. She improved customer experience by setting up dedicated contact centers in Nigeria and the UEMOA region, leading to awards for two countries. She also managed local and foreign currency deals for the Ecobank group. Korede is passionate about non-interest banking and financial inclusion amongst women.

Lolade Awogbade —- Lolade Awogbade is the Assistant Vice President Sustainability Specialist of Development Bank of Nigeria Plc. As an experienced sustainability professional with over 16 years of corporate experience in management consulting, sustainability, and corporate citizenship, she has held key leadership roles at organizations like Accenture, Chams Plc, and Union Bank Plc. Under her leadership at DBN, the bank launched the Impact Credit Guarantee in 2019 to support banks in providing loans to MSMEs. 

Most recently, Lola has had the opportunity to engage with the International Finance Corporation (IFC) on potential blended finance options, showcasing her commitment to driving impactful development initiatives. Recognizing the importance of building momentum in the ecosystem, she was honored to participate in a fireside chat alongside her CEO, to contribute valuable insights and foster collaboration for future growth.

Mabel Ndagi — She is the Executive Director, Public Sector and Intervention Programs at the Bank of Industry (BOI). A finance professional with over 30 years of experience in financial services, covering treasury management, corporate and project finance, marketing communications, strategic partnerships, and gender development. Before becoming an Executive Director, she was the pioneer Divisional Head of Communications and External Relations, where she built a strong brand image for the Bank.  

She has also led key business groups, including the Public and Multilateral Desk, the Central Bank of Nigeria’s Intervention Funds Desk, and the Gas & Petrochemicals Group within the Large Enterprise Directorate. A strong advocate for gender empowerment, Mabel established the Bank’s dedicated Gender Desk and continues to lead its women-focused programs locally and internationally. She has attended leadership and professional training at institutions like the New York Institute of Finance, City University Business School in London, and the Centre for Finance Strategy in Cambridge, Massachusetts.

Mary Akpobome —- She is the Chief Operating Officer at Imperium Capital Partners. With a 30-year career in the financial sector, Mary has demonstrated her expertise across institutions like Citizens International Bank, Platinum/Habib Bank, and Heritage Bank, where she served as Executive Director, Business Banking. In this role, she oversaw corporate, commercial, special projects, intervention schemes, multilateral, agriculture, and export businesses.  

Mary later became Executive Director of Enterprise Bank following its acquisition by Heritage Bank. An alumna of Lagos Business School, London Business School, and INSEAD, she brings extensive experience in managing people and resources, which undoubtedly shines in her new role as CEO of imperium Capital Partners. In 2021, she became an honoree of the 13th Edition of ELOY Awards, and received the ELOY “When I Win, You Win” award in recognition of her dedication to empowering and supporting the growth of other women.

Michelle Nwoga —- She is the Group Head Experience Officer at UBA Group, responsible for the development and implementation of Customer Experience strategies across Private, Business, Corporate, and Financial Inclusion sectors for 24 countries across 4 continents. Under her leadership as Group Head Officer, She transformed the bank into a customer-focused institution, delivering remarkable results in Africa’s banking industry. She also moved UBA to achieve a top 5 ranking in the KPMG BICX survey across Retail, SME, and Corporate segments—a significant milestone for the bank. Overtime, she has ensured the bank developed various strategies to ensure that its service delivery is continuously upgraded to remain the bank of choice. 

Having over 25 years of experience in the financial services industry, she has led transformative initiatives that have reshaped large organizations into customer-focused institutions, delivering groundbreaking results in Africa’s banking sector. She is highly skilled in crafting global customer experience (CX) and marketing strategies, as well as developing innovative business solutions.

Miriam Olusanya — She is the Managing Director at  GTBank. She joined the bank as an Executive Trainee in 1998 and rose through the ranks, gaining over 25 years of experience in areas like Asset and Liability Management, Financial Markets, Corporate Finance, and Investment Banking. Before becoming Managing Director, she served as Executive Director, overseeing the bank’s Asset & Liability Management and Financial Markets dealings across its African subsidiaries.  

Under her leadership, GTBank has achieved the largest profit before tax in Nigeria’s banking history and she has also demonstrated a commitment to promoting enterprise across the African continent and supporting indigenous small businesses. In July 2021, she made history as the first female Managing Director of GTBank. Her outstanding performance and track record at GT Group have been key in establishing the company as a leading financial holding firm and strengthening its ability to tackle operational challenges. She is widely acknowledged for her exceptional leadership and significant contributions to the bank’s success.

Mojisola Elizabeth Hunponu-Wusu — She is the Founder and CEO of Woodhill Capital, a premier financial advisory firm specializing in securing international funding for government agencies, large corporations, financial institutions, and sovereign entities. She is also the visionary behind the Woodhall Capital International Foundation, driving impactful initiatives beyond finance. With an impressive 25-year career in investment banking, Mojisola has led high-stakes contract negotiations and executed transformative financial projects. 

Since founding Woodhill Capital in 2014, she has strategically expanded its global presence, establishing offices in key financial hubs including London, Dubai, and Abuja. Under her leadership, the firm partnered with Afreximbank since 2008, raising over $5 billion for SMEs, especially women entrepreneurs. With an unparalleled 100% client retention rate, her mentorship program on Instagram inspires young business owners to start small, embrace discipline, and access funding. Today, the firm continues to thrive on both local and international fronts, solidifying its position as a leader in global financial advisory services.

Mosun Belo-Olusoga —- She is the Principal Consultant at KRC Limited and serves as a Director at ActionAid, FCSL Asset Management Limited, and Premium Pension Limited. A seasoned professional in Nigeria’s financial services industry, specializing in credit and risk management. Mosun previously chaired the board of Access Bank PLC and is a non-executive director at Premium Pension Limited, ActionAid, and the MTN Foundation. 

With extensive experience across the financial sector, Mosun is a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria and an Honorary Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Bankers. Beyond finance, she is also a school owner, further showcasing her commitment to education and community development. In 2024, she released the book I am Tamramat: The Fruit of God’s Mercy, which is an excerpt of her autobiography.

Ngover Ihyembe Nwankwo  — She is the Executive Director of Business Development at the Nigeria Interbank Settlement System (NIBSS Plc). She has shown strong problem-solving and critical thinking skills throughout her career, especially in areas like corporate and institutional client management, developing trade products, creating cash management solutions, and structuring corporate finance deals. Her previous roles at Rand Merchant Bank and Standard Chartered Bank showcase her expertise in these fields. 

Ngover is a strong advocate for diversity, inclusive development, and gender equality. She serves as a Trustee on the Board of Women in Management, Business & Public Service (WIMBIZ), one of Africa’s leading women-focused NGOs. In addition, she is recognized for her commercial focus, customer-first mindset, and empathetic approach, which enhance her strengths in business analysis, strategy development, and execution. Ngover has a proven ability to improve organizational efficiency, drive innovation, and deliver value for shareholders. She is also an excellent presenter, skilled negotiator, and effective relationship builder, excelling in forming strategic partnerships and gaining support at all levels of an organization.  

Ngozi Akinyele —- Ngozi Akinyele is the Group Executive, Chief Marketing and Communications Officer at Coronation. In this role she oversees Brand, Marketing, Communications, Corporate Citizenship, and Sustainability across all 13 Coronation entities in Africa. Under her leadership at Coronation Group, the organization was awarded the Fast-Growing Financial Services Group of the year at the 2023 Brandcom awards. 

Before joining Coronation, Ngozi was Head of Strategic Brand Management at Union Bank, where she led groundbreaking, award-winning brand and product initiatives for six years. Earlier, as a Senior Consultant at KPMG Nigeria, she worked on business strategy, marketing, HR, operational transformation, and change management for local and global companies. Passionate about empowering women to thrive in family, career, and business, she co-anchored a weekly radio show on these topics and mentored young women through the Alpher x WIMBIZ program. She also volunteers as the host of The Platform Nigeria, a global forum inspiring professional development and nation-building.

Dr. Ngozi Okonjo Iweala —- Dr. Ngozi Nkonjo Iweala is the Director General of the World Trade Organization (WTO). For her excellence leadership at the World Trade Organization, she has been re-elected for a second term, slated to begin September 1st, 2025. She is also the first woman and first African to hold the position in the 75-year history of the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade and the WTO. As an economist and international development expert with more than 40 years of experience, she has served as the Chair Board of Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, the African Union’s African Risk Capacity Group, and co-chaired the Global Commission on the Economy and Climate. She was instrumental in founding the COVAX Facility to provide affordable vaccines to Low and Low-Middle Income Countries and co-chaired the G20 High-Level Panel on Financing for Pandemic Preparedness. 

She has also served on the Boards of Trustees for the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace and the Rockefeller Foundation. Currently, she is a trustee of the World Economic Forum, co-chair of the Global Commission on the Economics of Water, and a member of the G30 Group for International Finance. Additionally, she is part of the council for the Earthshot Prize, a global environmental initiative by the Prince of Wales. Dr Okonjo-Iweala is the recipient of numerous honors and accolades. She has been named six times by Forbes as one of the Top 100 Most Powerful Women in the World and in 2020, was named Forbes African of the Year. In 2021, she was named by Financial Times as one of the 25 Most Influential Women in the World.

Nimi Akinkugbe —- Nimi Akinkugbe the Founder of Bestman Games Ltd and Money Matters With Nimi, which she uses to leverage speaking engagements, seminars, television, radio, articles, games, and social media to promote financial literacy. She is also a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Directors, Nigeria. A seasoned finance professional, Nimi leverages her expertise to drive financial literacy and inclusion as essential tools for youth empowerment, entrepreneurship, and economic growth. Nimi served as the first female Ambassador to Greece from 2021 to 2023, in which she brought on a wealth of experience to her diplomatic role. Prior to this, she held Board positions at Standard Chartered Bank Nigeria, Financial Derivatives Ltd, Letshego Microfinance Bank, Daisy Mgt Centre, and House of Tara Ltd. 

Through her “Money Matters with Nimi” platform, she actively promotes financial literacy using diverse channels such as speaking engagements, seminars, TV, radio, social media, and her widely acclaimed book, *A – Z of Personal Finance*. Her company, Bestman Games, has pioneered financial literacy extracurricular school clubs in Lagos, fostering early financial education.

Nkebet Mesele —- She is the Founder and CEO at Intreensic, an organization dedicated to bridging the talent and knowledge gaps within the payments sector, by equipping professionals and businesses with world class payment expertise. With Intreensic, Nkebet aims to transform payments education and consulting in Africa, and also address the critical need for structured training and certification in the payment sector. She recently moved on from the role of Senior Director of Products and Solutions at Visa. With over 17 years of experience in financial services, her expertise spans banking, payments, education, and telecommunications. In her four years at Visa, Nkebet has led the Push Payments team in Sub-Saharan Africa, focusing on driving innovative payment solutions. She also oversees the Solutions Management Organization in West and Central Africa, ensuring the delivery of tailored products and strategies that address the region’s unique financial needs. 

Under her leadership, Nkebet achieved significant milestones, including launching Visa on Mobile in Nigeria and Ghana and fostering strategic fintech partnerships across the region. Before joining Visa, she served as Head of e-Business Implementations at GTBank, where she provided e-Business advisory services and spearheaded training and support for the bank’s subsidiaries nationwide. A strategic thinker and problem solver, Nkebet played a key role in developing innovative solutions, including the creation of the GTWorld app, among other impactful initiatives.

Nkem Okocha —- She is the Founder and CEO of Mamamoni, HerPay, SheSabi, and a passionate advocate for inclusive digital financial services, financial inclusion, and women’s empowerment. Through Mamamoni, a social enterprise focused on community transformation, she empowers women to start and grow small businesses. To date, Mamamoni has impacted over 600,000 low-income women and their families, earning various awards and recognition. Under her leadership, Mamamoni shifted to an agency banking model in 2022, expanding its reach through 1,500 female agents who now process millions of naira in transactions monthly across ten states in Nigeria. In addition to Mamamoni, Nkem created SheSabi, a mobile learning app that offers free training in vocational, business, digital, and financial literacy in multiple languages. This initiative has empowered countless young girls and women with skills to improve their livelihoods and achieve financial independence. 

Her newest venture, HerPay, focuses on providing banking services to women in regions with significant gender restrictions, promoting financial inclusion where it is most needed. Her achievements include the LEAP Africa Social Innovator Award and the Mandela Washington Fellowship (YALI) Award.

Nneka Enwereji —-  She is the Managing Director and CEO at CitiBank Nigeria Limited and Citi Country Officer and Banking Head for Nigeria and Ghana. Nneka previously served as the Head of Global Network Banking across Sub-Saharan Africa and led her team in achieving record business growth, amidst considerable market complexities. She has held the position of Co-Head of the Global Banking unit for the Middle East and Africa (MEA) and functioned as the Executive Director in the Lenders Unit of the bank. Nneka Enwereji brings on her extensive experience and expertise in transaction services, risk management, operations, and corporate and investment banking to her current role. 

In addition to her extensive experience in the finance sector, her multiple leadership roles at Citi Bank have not only expanded her expertise but also allowed her to cultivate a deep understanding of the global financial markets and the intricacies of cross-border trade. Enwereji’s contributions to Citi have been widely recognized, and her leadership style—marked by a focus on innovation, client-centricity, and operational excellence—has been instrumental in driving the bank’s success.

Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe — She is the Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer at Fidelity Bank PLC. A woman who made history as the first female Managing Director/CEO of Fidelity Bank Plc, with a career spanning key roles at Standard Chartered Bank and Enterprise Bank, she brought her expertise in retail, corporate, and treasury management to Fidelity Bank as Executive Director, overseeing the Lagos and Southwest regions. At Fidelity Bank, Onyeali-Ikpe demonstrated a commitment to empowering entrepreneurs, particularly women, by establishing the bank’s SME group. Under her leadership, Fidelity Bank expanded its global footprint with the acquisition and rebranding of Union Bank UK as Fidelity Bank UK Limited. 

She also spearheaded a historic and oversubscribed ₦127 billion capital raise, signaling investor confidence and setting the stage for IT advancements and market expansion. Thanks to her leadership, the bank was recognized with accolades such as ‘Best Commercial Banking Brand in Nigeria’ and ‘Best Private Bank in Nigeria’. This recognition solidified the bank industry position. Through initiatives like the Fidelity International Trade & Creative Connect (FITCC), Onyeali-Ikpe continues to champion small businesses and foster entrepreneurial growth.

Nnenna Anyim Okoro — She is the Executive Director of Corporate Bank and South at Keystone Bank Limited. Nnenna has over 27 years of experience in financial services, working with five banks, including global institutions like Citibank, Standard Chartered Bank, and Stanbic IBTC Bank. She began her career in banking operations at Diamond Bank (now Access Bank), later becoming Regional Head of Electronic Payment Marketing (North). 

Her journey has since advanced from Access Bank, to Standard Chartered Bank, First City Monument Bank, Stanbic IBTC Bank as Head of Product Management for West Africa and later transitioned to Corporate & Investment Banking, overseeing the Consumer Sector in Nigeria and West Africa. Nnenna has also served as a Non-Executive Director on the Board of Stanbic IBTC Pension Managers, a member of the Nigeria-South Africa Chamber of Commerce, and Chairperson of Stanbic IBTC’s Blue Women Network. She has led several ESG initiatives and contributed to digital innovation as part of Stanbic IBTC Holdings’ Digital Oversight Council.

Nnenna Jacob-Ogogo — Nnenna Jacob-Ogogo is the Group Head at First City Monument Bank Limited. She possesses over 22 years of experience in Nigeria’s banking and finance industry, with a strong focus on innovation, leadership, and making a measurable impact. She has also built a career bridging the gap between financial institutions and grassroots businesses, empowering women and driving economic growth. 

As the head of SheVentures, FCMB’s flagship women’s empowerment initiative, Nnenna manages a N24 billion loan portfolio. Under her leadership, the bank supports female entrepreneurs with interest-free loans of up to ₦10 million. This unique program is designed to help women-led businesses thrive in the export and agricultural sectors. In addition to financial support, SheVentures offers free business training and mentorship, creating a holistic system that equips women with the tools they need to succeed.

Dr. Odiri Oginni — Dr Odiri Ogini is the Chief Executive Officer at United Capital Asset. With over 18 years of experience in financial services, she has built a strong career in business strategy and corporate performance. Before becoming CEO of United Capital Asset Management Limited, she served as Group CFO of United Capital PLC, where she managed the strategic financial operations of the publicly listed group.

Leveraging her expertise in investment management, business transformation, and market leadership, she has positioned United Capital Asset Management as a top player in the mutual funds industry and the largest fixed-income fund manager in Nigeria. She also serves on investment committees for multiple mutual and infrastructure funds.

Olamide Adeosun — She is the Chief Financial Officer at FBNQuest Merchant Bank.  A skilled finance professional, Olamide has 23 years of experience in financial reporting, accounting, analysis, audits, budgeting, cash management, and tax planning. With a strong track record of managing stakeholder relationships and leading change initiatives, she has successfully managed change initiatives such as culture transformation, process automation, and streamlining operations. Olamide is a key member of her bank’s executive leadership team, helping to shape its path toward sustainable growth. Before rejoining the FBNQuest group, she was Head of Finance Business Management and Investor Relations at Union Bank Nigeria, where she acted as a strategic partner to business leaders and managed communications with analysts and investors. 

A Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England and Wales (ICAEW) and an Associate of ICAN, Olamide is also the Assistant Finance Secretary of the Association of Professional Women Bankers (APWB), a subset of CIBN. She is a sought-after speaker on topics like women in finance, work-life balance, and financial literacy. Passionate about empowering women and children, she actively supports non-profits such as KidzFeet, WIMBIZ, and CVEF through mentoring, workshops, and outreach programs.

Olayimikah Bolo — She is the Managing Director and Chief Risk Officer at Chapel Hill Denham where she oversees risk governance, strategy, and policy formulation for one of Nigeria’s leading investment banking firms. Previously, Yimikah was Acting Managing Director/COO of FMDQ Clear Limited, a subsidiary of FMDQ OTC Securities Exchange. Her career trajectory also includes senior roles at Stanbic IBTC Holdings, where she led risk governance across Nigeria, Ghana, Angola, and the DRC. 

Olayimikah is also a Non-Executive Director at NASD OTC Securities Exchange, where she chairs the Audit and Risk Committee. She has also made strides in the renewable energy sector and is a founding partner of Falkirk Limited, a risk governance consultancy. Yimikah is a certified member of the Institute of Directors and a former Vice President of the Chartered Risk Management Institute of Nigeria.

Olayinka David-West — She is the Dean of Lagos Business School, becoming the second woman to hold this prestigious position, following her impactful tenure as Associate Dean, where she led strategic initiatives and academic excellence. Olayinka is a renowned force in digital transformation and financial inclusion, blending nearly three decades of experience in IT and financial services with a passion for creating equitable systems.

She leads the Sustainable and Inclusive Digital Financial Services (SIDFS) initiative, driving research and advocacy to enhance financial inclusion in Nigeria. Her expertise has earned her recognition as one of the Leading Women in Nigeria’s Financial Technology Industry, and her work has been spotlighted by FintechTimes and the Tech Women of Lagos exhibition. Olayinka is also a governing council member of the Fintech Association of Nigeria and a key member of African Women in Finance and Payments.

Ola Oladele —- She is the CEO of OlerOladele.com, a personal finance wellness company, and the founder of The Money Wit Club, a social investment enterprise for working professionals and entrepreneurs. Ola is on a mission to help professionals and entrepreneurs secure their financial future through education, community, and access to viable investment opportunities. She hosts The Money Wit Club’s flagship project, The Money Wit Show, a prime-time radio program offering practical personal finance insights across Nigeria and beyond via podcast platforms.

Ola is also a faculty member of Tekedia Mini MBA and Joseph Business School, where she equips students with tools for financial success. A passionate advocate for gender diversity, she was the pioneer Chair of the CFA Society Nigeria’s Gender Diversity Committee, championing the advancement of women in finance. Ola also launched an initiative called The Big 3, which supports entrepreneurs with tailored financial education. 

Olufunke Isichei — She is the Head of Internal Control at Stanbic IBTC Bank, with decades of expertise and a stellar track record in finance. With a career spanning roles in organizations like Airtel and FCMB, she has mastered the art of steering teams, managing relationships, and driving business growth.Olufunke also holds a degree in International Law and Diplomacy and is a certified John Maxwell Speaker, Trainer, and Coach. 

She is a finance leader and a transformer who has built people, systems, businesses, and legacies rooted in ethics and governance. Olufunke is renowned for redefining CX strategies or championing financial innovation. She was a keynote speaker at Cowrywise’s CX-Con 2024 where she delivered a compelling keynote on elevating customer experience for sustainable growth. 

Oluwatoyin Aralepo — Oluwatoyin Aralepo is the Global Head of Finance, Programs FP&A at the Mastercard Foundation and is a multi-award-winning strategic finance expert with a knack for building strong financial frameworks. She is also the founder of Africa Finance & Strategy Hub, where she equips SMEs with the financial tools they need to scale and attract investors. 

To date, she’s trained over 5,000 business owners on platforms like FCMB SheVentures. Her book, How to Attract Billion Dollar Investors, is a sought-after resource for businesses aspiring to sustainable growth. A fervent advocate for mentorship and financial literacy, Oluwatoyin lends her expertise to organizations like WIMBIZ, the Tony Elumelu Foundation and as a keynote speaker at  The Entrepreneur Africa Awards. She has been recognized with multiple awards including Woman of the Year by Golden Star Awards.

Omoke Adebanjo — She is the Senior Vice President of Mastercard’s Merchants & Commerce segment across 80 markets in Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. Based in Dubai, she leads the charge in forging critical merchant relationships, driving digital transformation, and championing financial inclusion across emerging markets. Since joining Mastercard in 2011, Omoke has worn many hats—from leading regional franchise operations to managing the anglophone West Africa cluster, where she drove cashless economy agendas and launched innovative products. 

With a career spanning healthcare, telecoms, and banking, she has a rich, multi-sector perspective to solving complex challenges in payments and financial services. She has been recognized among Nigeria’s top career women and fintech leaders, Omoke also frequently shares her expertise as a Forbes contributor, inspiring women and SMEs with strategies for breaking barriers and embracing digital transformation.

Ononuju Irukwu — She is the Head of Private Banking at FirstBank UK, and oversees Wealth Management and Mortgage Services, driving multi-million-dollar business growth over the last five and a half years. Ononuju has built an illustrious career over 25 years in Personal Banking and Investment Management. She is the former President of the Fund Managers Association of Nigeria (FMAN) and currently chairs the UK chapter of Women in Finance Nigeria (WING), where she empowers and mentors the next generation of women leaders in finance.

Passionate about financial literacy and impact investing, Ononuju authored The Habits of the Financially Wise, offering practical steps to achieving financial success. For over six years, her personal wealth column in ThisDay Newspaper provided readers with actionable insights, cementing her reputation as a thought leader. Ononuju also chaired the Channels Working Group of the Central Bank of Nigeria’s Financial Inclusion Committee. She is an articulate and sought-after speaker on topics like financial transitions, gender equality, and socially impactful investments.

Onyeka Koldsweat Akpaida — She is the Co-founder and Advisory Board Chair of Rendra Foundation, a  fintech social enterprise that advocates for and provides inclusive finance for low-income and forcibly displaced women in Northern Nigeria. As an accomplished gender specialist and financial inclusion expert with over 14 years of experience in the financial services sector, she has designed and led the financial Inclusion department at 9 Payment Service Bank, Nigeria’s pioneer payment service bank, where she developed the financial inclusion strategy, financial literacy curriculum, and social protection initiatives. Additionally, she led one of the largest public sector teams in a pan-African bank and achieved a 300% increase in the balance sheet.

With Rendra Foundation, she advocates for female financial inclusion and works to support and equip financial service providers in providing market-driven solutions for their women customers. Onyeka has brought in over 6,000 women into the formal financial services sector. She is also a globally recognised thought leader and conference speaker with several opinion editorials and articles published by The African Report, Thisday, Business Day, Leadership and Guardian Newspapers. She was recognized as the West Africa Inclusive Leader Champion and the Rendra Foundation received the award for the Empowerment of Women in Community for West Africa at Business Engage and Accenture’s 9th gender mainstreaming awards.

Oremeyi Adeola Akah — She is the Chief Customer Success Officer at Interswitch Group and a pioneering leader in African fintech. At Interswitch Group where she previously held the role of Chief Core Operations Officer, she is redefining customer-centricity across Nigeria, Germany, Kenya, and Uganda, and implemented the first MasterCard EMV processor in West Africa to expand Verve’s acceptance across 185 countries through strategic partnerships. 

Oremeyi was the inaugural Secretariat Lead for the Verve Advisory Council that developed the first-ever payment card scheme rules for Verve, setting a global standard. She is also a certified ePayment trainer and has trained over 300 professionals across Africa, enhancing fintech capacity on the continent. Passionate about empowering women, Oremeyi sits on the board of SHECAN Nigeria and co-founded AfricanBuild Africa, inspiring the next generation of leaders in finance and technology.

Rita Amene — She is the Group Head of Commercial Banking at Providus Bank. She possesses over 20 years of extensive experience in the banking industry. Her career spans roles at Equity Bank Nigeria Limited and Zenith Bank, where she built a strong foundation in commercial banking, branch management supervision, business development, and financial advisory services. During her time as Group Zonal Head at Zenith Bank, Rita achieved impressive results, consistently delivering high monthly profit levels year after year. She successfully grew the bank’s liability base and expanded its risk asset portfolio, showcasing her ability to drive financial growth and achieve set objectives. 

Her leadership in these roles reflected her deep understanding of market dynamics and her strategic approach to meeting customer needs. Rita has a proven track record of securing and executing major financial transactions. Her expertise lies in building strong client relationships, ensuring effective communication, and implementing innovative business development strategies. Her dedication and results-oriented mindset have earned her a reputation as a trusted leader in the banking sector, making her a key driver of success at Providus Bank.

Rolake Akinkugbe-Filani — She is a renowned Finance Executive, media personality, and board member with expertise in finance, energy, infrastructure, and corporate development. Most recently, she served as General Manager and Group Head of Investor Relations and Corporate Development at Zenith Bank, where she led a historic N350 billion ($230 million) capital raise in 2024. The transaction, oversubscribed by 160%, exceeded its initial target of N289 billion and enabled the bank to surpass the N500 billion minimum capital requirement mandated by the Central Bank of Nigeria. Rolake is also the host of Business Week on Arise News, where she effortlessly breaks down complex financial topics for global audiences. She has held significant leadership positions at major organizations like Mixta Africa where she was the Chief Commercial Officer, the Danish Investment fund and FBNQuest Merchant Bank. 

An award-winning executive with expertise in finance, energy, infrastructure, and media, Rolake is a key player in the financial market scene whose fingerprints are all over some of Africa’s most significant financial moments. She was a member of the Economic Advisory Board to the Office of the Nigerian Vice-President. She also sits on the boards of Aruwa Capital Management and Persistent, and is an Independent Non-executive Director & Investment Committee Member at All On. Rolake is deeply committed to social impact, serving on the global board of Save the Children International. 

Rolayo Akhigbe —She is the Senior Vice President at Citibank Nigeria where drives treasury and transaction services solutions for financial Institutions across Nigeria and Ghana. With a career spanning two decades, Rolayo has built an impressive track record in finance, working with global and local financial institutions across Africa and Europe, and leading large, cross-cultural, and cross-functional teams, with a strong focus on leveraging digital solutions.

Being a strong advocate for continuous growth and knowledge sharing, Rolayo mentors young professionals seeking to enhance their business, financial, and personal skills. She has participated in key initiatives supporting African businesses, including serving as a Round 2 Judge for Africa’s Business Heroes and speaking at events like Techpoint Inspired and conferences focused on closing the gender digital and financial divide. She has also shared her expertise on supporting female founders and startups in Africa through interviews with platforms like Just4WomenAfrica. Rolayo was recognized as one of the top 50 leading women in Corporate Nigeria,

Ronke (Oni) Kuye — She is a Finance leader, an Executive, who previously led as the Chief Executive Officer of Shared Agent Network Expansion Facilities Limited (SANEF), an initiative of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) supported by banks to promote financial inclusion through agent banking. Ronke led the launch of the first Naira-denominated MasterCard in Nigeria and the first MasterCard World Card in Africa. She was also a founding member and the founding chairman of the Committee of e-Business Industry Heads (CeBIH) and currently serves on its advisory board.

Ronke is passionate about bringing financial services to every Nigerian, and has spoken at various events, including an Open Banking Nigeria conference focused on financial inclusion and a SANEF webinar in partnership with NIBSS and Business Day, emphasizing SANEF’s vision to integrate 30 million unbanked and underserved individuals into the financial system. She also shared her insights at Techpoint Inspired, an event exploring future tech trends in Nigeria.

Sola Adesakin — She is the Founder of Smart Stewards platform, a financial literacy platform that provides individuals with learning tools and resources to manage their personal finances.  A personal Finance Coach, author, and sought-after speaker, Sola is dedicated to helping individuals and businesses achieve financial well-being. Through Smart Stewards, she provides training and resources on sound financial management, helping people move from financial stress and debt to wealth. Sola has designed and implemented effective financial systems for corporate clients and authored several books, including 40 Frugal Rules For Your Journey To Financial Freedom, May I Have My Money?: A Simple and Practical Guide to Money Management for Children, Fit-To-Fly Financial Plan, and The Real Profit. 

Sola is the founder of FRUIT Foundation, an NGO dedicated to empowering underprivileged women and widows in Nigeria. She also leads Wealth Whisperers, a platform exploring biblical principles for wealth creation. She is a recipient of the Women X Scholarship (World Bank and Pan Atlantic University) and a multi-award winner. She recently graduated from the Nasdaq Entrepreneurial Center’s Milestone Makers program, which supported the development of the Get Wealth Sync app by Smart Stewards. 

Sola David-Borha — She is the Board Chairperson of Stanbic IBTC Holdings, and is a highly accomplished executive with over 30 years of experience in the financial services industry. She most recently served as Chief Executive for Africa Regions at Standard Bank Group, with responsibility for 19 Sub-Saharan African countries. Prior to this regional role, she held Chief Executive positions at Stanbic IBTC Holdings PLC and Stanbic IBTC Bank PLC. 

Known for her commitment to corporate governance, she has chaired and served on several boards, including the Nigerian Economic Summit Group, Stanbic IBTC Bank, Stanbic Uganda Holdings, and Coca-Cola HBC AG, where she is an Independent Non-Executive Director. She has also championed ethical business practices as Chairperson of the Private Investors for Africa. Sola is a frequent speaker at business conferences and was recognized as Business Woman of the Year for Africa at the 2016 CNBC All Africa Business Leaders Awards. She is currently a PhD candidate at SOAS University of London and holds the distinction of Honorary Senior Member of the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria. 

Suzanne Iroche — She is the Chairman of Coronation Life Assurance and a highly experienced financial services professional with over 40 years of excellence in corporate and institutional banking, treasury, and international finance. She sits as an Independent Director on the boards of Coronation Merchant Bank, Travelex Nigeria, Union Bank UK, and UACN Plc. She has held various leadership roles at UBA Plc, including Executive Director of Global and Institutional Banking (2006-2008), responsible for UBA’s expansion across Africa and supervision of offshore operations in Ghana and New York.

In 2009, she was appointed by the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) as the turnaround Managing Director/CEO of FinBank Plc, tasked with stabilizing the institution during a period of financial sector reform. During her tenure (2009-2012), she successfully reduced losses, decreased operating costs by 25%, and increased deposits by 35%, earning a commendation from the CBN Governor. In addition to her corporate board positions, Suzanne is a member of the University of Lagos Advancement Board and the advisory board of WISCAR (Women In Successful Careers), an NGO focused on women’s professional development. 

Temi Dalley — She is the Group Executive Human Capital & Corporate Services at Sterling Financial Holdings Company. With over 20 years of experience in strategic leadership, talent management, and transformational change, Temi has mastered the art of aligning human capital strategies with business goals. Under her leadership, Sterling Bank earned the prestigious Legendary Award from the Great Place to Work Institute for five consecutive years.

Temi has created innovative initiatives, such as the Momship Program, which empowers working mothers while championing equity over equality in the workplace. She was presented the Visionary Leader of the Year award in 2023 by the Association of Elite HR Professionals.  Temi contributes to healthcare and education advancements as an advisory board member for Advantage Health Africa and Nexford University, leaving a legacy of impact and inclusion.

Tokunbo Ishmael — She is the Co-founder and Managing Director of Alitheia Capital, a leading impact investing firm, and has redefined “profit with purpose,” channeling over $100 million into women-led businesses through Alitheia IDF, a private equity fund transforming sectors across Africa. She is also the creator of Yellow Cowries, a gamified platform where she mentors entrepreneurs to build financial literacy. With a career spanning 3 continents, Tokunboh has worked on transactions worth over $5.6 billion and now focuses on investing in growth-oriented businesses in agribusiness, fintech, retail, and telecommunications.

Tokunbo is a staunch advocate for gender inclusion and ethical governance. A sought-after speaker sharing insights on ESG, gender-lens investing, and sustainable development, she emphasizes the importance of investing in women-led businesses. She is currently a Non-Executive Director at FCMB Group and was the Chairman of the African Private Equity and Venture Capital Association. Tokunboh is also a trustee of the Earthshot Prize and has shared her thoughts on gender impact investing on global panels like Harvard Business School’s Africa Business Conference, The International Woman Leadership Conference, and  Association of the Luxembourg Fund Industry (ALFI).

Tolu Alero Ladipo — She is the Group Head of Marketing and Corporate Communications at UBA Group and a leader in marketing and corporate communications, with nearly two decades of shaping narratives for some of Africa’s leading financial institutions. In her role at UBA, she drives strategies that advance the bank’s reputation across 20 African countries. Her career includes impressive roles at Stanbic IBTC, Union Bank, Smile Communications, and Old Mutual, where she spearheaded initiatives like a user-friendly digital platform that reshaped Nigeria’s insurance market. 

Tolu’s return to lead UBA’s marketing efforts after her 5 year-hiatus has been instrumental in strengthening UBA’s visibility and reputation. She was recognized as one of the influential Directors Driving Nigeria’s Billion-Dollar Companies in 2024.

Tolulope Babajide —  She is the Gender Network Manager at FSD Africa, a specialist development agency using finance to strengthen Africa’s future, where she leads transformative initiatives like the FSD Network Gender Collaborative Programme across eight African countries, driving innovative solutions to financial inclusion and sustainable development challenges. A committed advocate for gender and economic inclusion, Tolulope blends over a decade of expertise with a relentless  passion for women’s economic empowerment. 

At the center of gender, finance, and sustainability, she has led impactful initiatives that empower women through financial inclusion, agricultural development, and climate finance. Some of these include; the Hello Tractor initiative, which enhanced farmers’ access to storage and receipt finance, and the Financial Sector Deepening Mozambique’s programs. Tolu speaks on panels and writes thought-provoking pieces on women’s inclusion. She is also the Board Chair of A Girl Project, an initiative committed to shaping Africa’s future, one empowered girl at a time.

Tomi Somefun — She is the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Unity Bank Plc and a banking veteran with over 30 years of experience. As the Managing Director/CEO of Unity Bank Plc since 2015, she’s steered the bank through a significant turnaround. Under her leadership, Unity Bank has seen substantial growth in assets and profitability. 

At Unity Bank, Tomi has driven innovative strategies to restore the bank’s growth trajectory, achieving a 52% asset base increase in 2020 and recording N38.2 billion gross earnings and advancing financial inclusion through partnerships like the Rice Farmers Association of Nigeria (RIFAN). Tomi is deeply passionate about mentoring young professionals and advocating for girl-child education to bridge gender gaps. She has been recognized as one of Nigeria’s top 25 CEOs. 

Topsy Kola-Oyeneyin — She is a partner at Augmentum Advisory where she partners with CEOs, boards, and governments to deliver innovative growth strategies, inject capital into underperforming businesses, and craft policies to unlock Africa’s economic potential. Her work is laser-focused on equipping Africa’s young leaders to drive systemic change. Before founding Augmentum, Topsy was a Partner at McKinsey & Company, where she co-led the payment practice for Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. She also served at FirstBank Nigeria for 8 years, leading in various roles including Group Head, International Banking and as a Non-Executive Director at FirstBank DRC. She co-authored a report on Nigeria’s fintech potential, offering insights into the industry’s role in driving economic growth.

Topsy served as the pioneer Head of the Central Bank’s Shared Services department, leading the successful design and implementation of Nigeria’s transformative payments program, known as “cashless Lagos”. In her book, UNLEASH, Topsy provides a guide for navigating today’s complex global economy, showcasing her commitment to innovation and leadership. 

Tosin Olaseinde — She is the Founder and CEO of Money Africa, a financial literacy platform educating over 200,000 individuals on personal finance, and Ladda, a fintech solution simplifying savings and investments. Tosin is democratizing access to wealth-building tools for Millennials and Gen Z with a mission to guide 100 million Africans towards financial independence.  Dubbed the ‘New face of money’, she uses relatable storytelling to simplify complex financial concepts, earning features on platforms like TEDx, BBC, CNN, and Al Jazeera. 

Passionate about women’s financial empowerment, Tosin believes that financially literate women uplift families and communities. She was a Washington Mandela Fellow, LinkedIn Top Voice in Finance (2020), and one of the Top 50 African Business Heroes. Her startup, Money Africa, has been celebrated with awards, including the NGX Capital Market Content Creator of the Year and the NSIA Innovation Prize of $100,000.

Toyin Sanni — She is the Founder of Emerging Africa Group, an ESG-led investment group, focused on high-impact investments across various sectors, from investment banking to Fintech and infrastructure finance. Tosin is arguably one of the most influential names in the African financial scene. With over 36 years of experience in law, finance, and investment banking, she has helped shape the industry. She was previously the Group CEO of United Capital Plc (where she made history as the first female CEO to win the Pearl Awards’ CEO of the Year in its 22-year history) and Managing Director of UBA Trustees, where she demonstrated a knack for building businesses from the ground up, transforming UBA’s trust business into a market leader and establishing its custody business as a top contender.

Toyin is committed to grooming future leaders through mentorship and championing financial literacy as Chair of the relevant technical committee for the Nigerian Capital Market. She also founded Women in Finance Nigeria and WING UK, platforms dedicated to supporting women in the financial sector. Toyin has raked in a plethora of awards. Some of which include; All Africa Business Woman of the Year (2017), Nigerian CEO of the Year (2016 and 2018), and multiple BusinessDay Top 25 CEO awards, among others.

Uche Uzoebo — She is the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer at SANEF Limited, an initiative of the Central Bank of Nigeria created to accelerate financial inclusion in the country. Uche is at the forefront of creating opportunities for underserved communities to access financial services, and her work is pivotal to bridging Nigeria’s persisting financial divide. She previously led SANEF Limited as Chief Distribution & Stakeholder Engagement Officer. In her previous role as Group Head of Agency & Merchant Services at Diamond Bank, Uche led transformative strategies that brought millions of excluded individuals into the formal financial system, earning the bank multiple awards. 

She is a business consultant, gender advocate, and digital payment expert who has worked with notable financial institutions and international organizations to shape policies and enable inclusive financial ecosystems. Her leadership has been instrumental in developing innovative financial products for low-income communities, ensuring no one is left behind in the digital economy.

Yemisi Edun — She is the Managing Director, First City Monument Bank (FCMB), and her name is synonymous with transformational leadership in Nigeria’s banking sector. With a distinguished career spanning nearly four decades, she has risen through the ranks at FCMB, serving in roles such as Chief Financial Officer, Chief Compliance Officer, and Executive Director before her appointment as Managing Director in 2021.

Yemisi’s leadership has earned FCMB international recognition for SME financing and a focus on youth empowerment through initiatives like Dare2Dream. A staunch advocate for women’s leadership, Yemisi has called on professional bodies like ICAN to prioritize mentorship programs for female accountants. She was also named Banker of the Year 2023 by Leadership Newspaper and was awarded the prestigious Fellowship of the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria (CIBN) for her groundbreaking contributions to SME financing and corporate governance advocacy.

Yetunde Oni — She is the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Union Bank. Her appointment in 2024 made headlines as it marked a significant milestone of female leadership in Nigeria’s Banking Institutions. Before this role, Yetunde made history at Standard Chartered Bank, becoming the first female Managing Director and CEO in Sierra Leone in January 2021.

As the CEO of Standard Chartered Bank, her leadership delivered remarkable year-on-year growth: a 50% increase in income and a staggering 116% jump in profit before tax in 2022. Yetunde is dedicated to mentoring and developing future professionals, emphasizing the importance of striving for excellence. This commitment was evident in her address at the 2024 Nigeria Bar Association Annual General Conference. She has also been invested as an honorary fellow by the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria.

Yinka Osoba — She is the Head, Equity Capital Markets at Stanbic IBTC. With over 20 years of experience under her belt, 11 of which she spent climbing the corporate ladder at Stanbic IBTC, alongside prior roles at White & Case LLP, Yinka has established herself as a powerhouse in the financial sector and African capital markets.

With a career marked by strategic advisory roles and groundbreaking contributions to African finance, Yinka’s published study in the International Financial Law Review (IFLR), titled The Challenges Faced by African Issuers, reflects her deep commitment to tackling structural barriers and amplifying opportunities for African businesses on the global stage. She is an advocate for African women raising venture capital, and champions the inclusion of women in conversations about funding and equity. Yinka believes in breaking stereotypes, leveling the playing field, and ensuring that African women have a seat at the table—and not just as spectators but as decision-makers.