In the dynamic landscape of African enterprise and leadership, few figures embody resilience, innovation, and purpose as profoundly as Ibukun Awosika. Renowned as the first female
Chairperson of First Bank of Nigeria, her journey from a chemistry graduate to a trailblazing
entrepreneur and global thought leader is a testament to the transformative power of vision and determination.
Early Life and Education: Foundations of Excellence
Born on December 24, 1962, in Ibadan, Oyo State, Ibukun Awosika (née Bilkisu Abiodun
Motunrayo Omobolanle Adekola) was the third of seven children. Her formative years were
marked by a strong educational foundation, attending St. Paul’s African Church Primary School in Lagos and Methodist Girls’ High School, Yaba. She pursued a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry at the University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University), laying the groundwork for a career that would transcend traditional boundaries.
Driven by an insatiable thirst for knowledge, Awosika furthered her education with executive
programs at prestigious institutions, including the Lagos Business School, IESE Business
School in Barcelona, and the Global CEO Program of Wharton, IESE, and CEIBS.
Entrepreneurial Ventures: From Showroom to Boardroom
Awosika’s professional journey commenced during her National Youth Service Corps (NYSC)
year, where she served as an audit trainee at Akintola Williams & Co., now Deloitte. She then
joined Alibert Nigeria Ltd. as a showroom manager, gaining valuable industry experience.
In 1989, fueled by entrepreneurial zeal, she founded Quebees Limited, a furniture
manufacturing company. This venture evolved into The Chair Centre Limited, and later, SOKOA
Chair Centre Limited, establishing her as a formidable force in Nigeria’s furniture and security systems industry.
Breaking Barriers: Leadership at First Bank of Nigeria
Awosika’s appointment as the first female Chairperson of First Bank of Nigeria in September 2015 marked a historic milestone. Her tenure, which lasted until 2021, was characterized by strategic foresight and exemplary governance, setting a precedent for women’s leadership in Nigeria’s banking sector.
Beyond First Bank, she has served on various boards, including Cadbury Nigeria Plc, the
Nigerian Sovereign Investment Authority, and the Convention on Business Integrity, reflecting
her expansive influence in corporate governance.
Advocacy and Empowerment: Championing Women and Youth
A passionate advocate for women’s empowerment, Awosika co-founded Women in
Management, Business, and Public Service (WIMBIZ), a non-profit organization dedicated to
elevating the status of women in leadership roles.
Recognising the challenges faced by Nigerian youth, she established the Afterschool Graduate
Development Centre (AGDC) in 2011, aiming to enhance employability and entrepreneurial
skills among graduates.
Global Recognition and Influence
Awosika’s impact transcends national borders. In 2008, she became the first Nigerian recipient
of the prestigious International Women Entrepreneurial Challenge (IWEC) Award, nominated by the U.S. Department of State. Her global engagements include serving on the Binance Global Advisory Board and participating in the UK G7 Impact Taskforce, underscoring her role as a global culture shaper and policy influencer.
Authorship and Media Presence
An accomplished author, Awosika has penned books such as “The ‘Girl’ Entrepreneurs” and
“Business His Way, “sharing insights from her entrepreneurial journey. She has also hosted the
television program “Business – His Way”, providing guidance to aspiring entrepreneurs.
Personal Life: Balancing Roles with Grace
Beyond her professional achievements, Awosika is a devoted wife to Abiodun Awosika and a
mother to three sons. Her ability to balance family life with her numerous responsibilities serves as an inspiration to many.
Legacy and Continuing Impact
Ibukun Awosika’s journey is a compelling narrative of breaking barriers and building futures. Her multifaceted contributions to business, governance, and social development continue to inspire a new generation of leaders, affirming her status as an Adesuwa Inspirational Woman.
