Nigeria’s entrepreneurial landscape is teeming with powerful women carving a niche for themselves in various industries. Despite the challenges they face, including gender-based discrimination and limited access to funding, these female CEOs have defied the odds and built successful businesses. From fashion and beauty to technology and finance, they are trailblazing their way to the top, challenging traditional norms and inspiring generations of aspiring entrepreneurs.
This illustrious group of trailblazing women includes the likes of:
The Fashion and Beauty Industry
Tara Fela-Durotoye, the founder and CEO of House of Tara International, Africa’s leading beauty and cosmetics brand. Fela-Durotoye started her journey in the beauty industry by selling homemade makeup products at trade fairs and events, but she quickly grew the brand into a multinational corporation with a presence in over 14 African countries. Her entrepreneurial spirit, passion for empowering women, and commitment to quality have been instrumental in her success.
Fela-Durotoye’s impact on the African beauty industry has been transformative. Through House of Tara, she created a platform that not only offers high-quality makeup products but also provides training, mentorship, and job opportunities for young women in the beauty industry.
Her “Makeup for Makeup Artists” initiative has empowered over 10,000 young women in Nigeria with entrepreneurial and vocational skills, helping them start their own businesses and contribute to the country’s economy.
The Technology Industry
One of the most promising sectors in Nigeria’s business landscape is technology, where women like Odunayo Eweniyi, co-founder of Piggyvest, are making waves. Eweniyi has revolutionized the way people save and invest in Nigeria, with a platform that provides users with flexible and high-yield savings options.
Odunayo Eweniyi’s entrepreneurial journey began as a freelance software developer, but her vision for financial empowerment led her to co-found Piggyvest, one of Nigeria’s most successful fintech startups. Piggyvest’s innovative technology has made it easier for Nigerians to manage their savings and investment portfolios. Eweniyi’s team developed a platform that uses automated savings techniques to encourage consistent savings habits and incentivize long-term financial planning.
The Finance Industry
Another powerhouse in the financial sector is Toyin Sanni, CEO of Emerging Africa Capital Group, a pan-African investment company focused on infrastructure and sustainable development. Under Sanni’s leadership, the company has made significant inroads in providing innovative financing solutions that support Africa’s sustainable growth.
Toyin Sanni is a formidable force in the African finance industry.
After a successful career at First Bank of Nigeria and UBA Capital, she founded Emerging Africa Capital Group with a vision to catalyze investments in infrastructure and sustainable development across the continent.
Sanni’s achievements have been widely recognized. In 2021, she was named “Female Leader of the Year” by the African Business Leadership Awards for her contributions to infrastructure financing in Africa. Under her leadership, Emerging Africa Capital Group has closed several high-profile deals, including a $500 million investment in Nigeria’s power sector.
The Media and Communications Industry
Mo Abudu, popularly known as the “Oprah of Africa”, is a media mogul who founded EbonyLife TV, Nigeria’s first global black entertainment and lifestyle network. As the CEO of EbonyLife TV, Abudu has created a platform that showcases the best of African culture and talent to the world. From award-winning drama series like “The Governor” to reality shows like “The Debaters”, her network has produced a diverse range of programming that has engaged audiences across the globe.
Mo Abudu’s influence goes beyond her role as the CEO of EbonyLife TV. She has been instrumental in reshaping the global narrative around Africa and Africans through her media and entertainment company.
EbonyLife TV’s productions have received international acclaim, with “The Wedding Party,” a romantic comedy produced by the company, becoming the highest-grossing movie in Nigerian cinema history. In addition, Abudu has produced several hit TV shows, including “Castle and Castle” and “Sons of the Caliphate.”
The Oil and Gas Industry
Catherine Uju Ifejika is the CEO of Brittania-U Nigeria Limited, an indigenous Nigerian energy company that specializes in exploration and production of oil and gas. Catherine Uju Ifejika is a true industry leader in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector. A trained lawyer, she began her career in the legal department of an oil company before venturing into entrepreneurship with Brittania-U Nigeria Limited.
Her company quickly gained recognition for its innovative approach to indigenous participation in the oil and gas sector.
Under Ifejika’s leadership, Brittania-U Nigeria Limited has become one of the most significant local players in the sector, winning several awards for its work in promoting local content and entrepreneurship.
Despite challenges, Nigerian women entrepreneurs are proving that gender is not a barrier to success in business. By seizing opportunities, creating innovative solutions, and pushing boundaries, these female CEOs are reshaping Nigeria’s business landscape and inspiring a new generation of entrepreneurs. Whether you’re a budding entrepreneur or simply a fan of Africa’s thriving business scene, their stories serve as a testament to the immense potential that lies within every woman who dares to dream big.
These women are just a few examples of the powerful forces driving Nigeria’s economy. The growing number of successful women-led businesses in Nigeria is a testament to the hard work, creativity, and resilience of these exceptional individuals. Their stories inspire not only aspiring entrepreneurs, but also the entire country and the world. By breaking barriers, challenging traditional roles, and building innovative solutions, these women are paving the way for a brighter future for all women in business. Their impact will continue to be felt for generations to come.
