Here’s a quick look at what you’ll discover in this article:
- Insights from Oge Dan-Gogo on building confidence through continuous learning.
- Olajumoke Adekanmi’s strategies for risk management in African SMEs.
- Olajumoke Ajayi’s journey in the oil and gas sector and her commitment to community development.
- Oyiza Salu’s approach to shaping workplace culture at Polaris Bank.
- Utibe Udo’s dedication to excellence in the hospitality industry.
- Vivian Aimakhu’s vision for affordable housing in Lagos.
- Oluwakemi Adeniyi’s mission to transform finance into a strategic business partner.
Oge Dan-Gogo: Mastering Compliance and Risk Management
Oge Dan-Gogo, the Compliance and Risk Management Manager at LES Energy, shares her journey in the oil and gas industry. With over 13 years of experience, Oge’s expertise spans tendering, subsea operations, and sustainability. She emphasizes the importance of staying updated with industry best practices to build confidence and credibility.
The God Factor
Oge credits Pastor Jerry Eze for instilling in her the belief that anything is possible with God. She also acknowledges her first manager for teaching her the importance of accuracy and her current line manager, Mr. Omale, for his exceptional leadership.
Overcoming Challenges in a Male-Dominated Industry
Navigating a male-dominated industry hasn’t been easy. Oge has faced biases and stereotypes, but she tackles these challenges by focusing on personal growth and advocating for herself and other women.
Olajumoke Adekanmi: De-risking Investments for African SMEs
As the Chief Risk Officer at Moneda Invest, Olajumoke Adekanmi is dedicated to safeguarding the resilience of the organization’s asset portfolio. With 15 years of experience in the banking sector, she brings a wealth of knowledge to her role.
A Leap of Faith
Olajumoke describes leaving the banking sector to establish a risk management framework for Moneda as a defining moment in her career. She’s passionate about supporting African SMEs and creating frameworks that de-risk investments while enabling sustainable growth.
Balancing Act
Balancing professional ambitions with family and personal responsibilities is a challenge. Olajumoke navigates this by having a strong support system, managing her time effectively, and delegating tasks.
Olajumoke Ajayi: Leading with Integrity in the Oil and Gas Sector
Olajumoke Ajayi, the MD/CEO of Ingentia Energies Limited, shares her journey in the oil and gas industry. With a background in Applied Geophysics, she’s passionate about leading with integrity and inspiring younger professionals.
From Geophysics to Leadership
Olajumoke’s choice to study Geophysics was driven by her passion for science and problem-solving. Despite initial concerns from her parents about entering a male-dominated field, she was determined to build her own path.
Community Impact
Olajumoke emphasizes the importance of involving local communities in their operations. Ingentia Energies prioritizes hiring locally and ensuring that services are handled by contractors from the host communities.
Oyiza Salu: Shaping Workplace Culture at Polaris Bank
As the Chief Talent and Culture Officer for Polaris Bank, Oyiza Salu plays a pivotal role in shaping workplace culture and driving talent strategies. Her expertise lies in leadership development, HR strategy, and change management.
From Engineering to HR
Oyiza’s passion for building high-performing teams led her to transition from chemical engineering to human resources. She believes that empowering individuals is key to unlocking their full potential and driving business success.
Combating the “Japa Syndrome”
Oyiza acknowledges that the “japa syndrome” (brain drain) has made talent acquisition and retention difficult. To combat this, she focuses on entrenching a strong employer brand and inclusive culture within the bank.
Utibe Udo: Excellence in the Hospitality Industry
Utibe Udo, the Commercial Director for Newrest Nigeria, has cultivated a strong foundation in guest service, operational efficiency, and customer experience. Her career spans event management, hotel operations, and the aviation industry.
Driven by Results
Utibe’s drive for results has earned her notable appointments in the hospitality industry. She’s dedicated to exceeding expectations and upholding high standards of excellence.
Advice for Aspiring Professionals
Utibe advises aspiring female professionals to embrace authenticity, diligence, and preparation. She believes that opportunities reward those who are ready.
Vivian Aimakhu: Delivering Affordable Housing in Lagos
Vivian Aimakhu, the Executive Director/Chief Operating Officer of PWAN Perfection Business Investment Ltd, is a proactive professional with a passion for real estate. She’s committed to delivering affordable housing solutions in Lagos.
Building a Vision
Vivian shares that PWAN Perfection started with a vision to develop houses. This vision came to life in 2022, and the company delivered its first project in December 2024.
Lessons from a Construction Engineer Father
Vivian credits her father, a construction engineer, for instilling in her valuable lessons about efficiency and resource management. These lessons have been instrumental in her role at PWAN Perfection.
Oluwakemi Adeniyi: Transforming Finance into a Strategic Partner
Oluwakemi Adeniyi, the General Manager, Finance for OmniRetail Africa, is passionate about transforming finance into a true business partner. She believes that finance plays a critical role in building and sustaining organizations.
Inspired by Accounting
Oluwakemi was inspired to pursue a career in accounting by her brother. She admired his commitment, precision, and the impact of his work.
OmniRetail’s Mission
OmniRetail is a technology-driven B2B e-commerce company that’s reshaping retail distribution across Africa. The company connects manufacturers and distributors directly with retailers, using data and technology to optimize pricing and delivery.
These exceptional women are making significant contributions to Nigeria’s professional landscape. Their stories are a testament to the power of dedication, resilience, and a commitment to excellence.