20 female CEOs of top companies in Nigeria 2025 that you should know
– Advertisement –
For decades, men have dominated leadership roles across Nigeria’s top industries, including banking, energy, health, communication, aviation, and media. However, a significant shift has emerged with the rise of female CEOs, ushering in a new era of leadership.
These women are not only heading major financial institutions but also driving innovation, resilience, and inclusive growth. Their impact is reshaping Nigeria’s economic landscape and inspiring future generations of female executives.
In this article, Intel Region is going to talk about the top 20 female CEOs (Chief Executive Officers) of top companies in Nigeria as of the year 2025. See below;
– Advertisement –
Join our Entertainment WhatsApp Group
Don’t miss out on any real gist. Join Our WhatsApp group to enjoy updates
CLICK HERE TO JOIN
Adaora Umeoji – CEO, Zenith Bank
Appointed as CEO of Zenith Bank in 2024, Umeoji made history as the institution’s first female CEO. With over 30 years of banking experience, including 26 years at Zenith Bank, she previously served as Deputy Managing Director since 2016, contributing significantly to the bank’s growth and success.
Dr. Umeoji holds multiple degrees including; Bachelor’s in Sociology from the University of Jos, Bachelor’s in Accounting and a First-Class Honours in Law from Baze University, Abuja, Master of Laws from the University of Salford, UK, Master of Business Administration from the University of Calabar and Doctorate in Business Administration from Apollos University, USA.
– Advertisement –
She also completed executive programs at Harvard Business School, Columbia Business School, MIT Sloan School of Management, and Wharton Business School.
Dr. Umeoji’s accolades include; Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON) in 2022 as well as Humanitarian Service Icon Award at The Sun Awards in 2023.
Folake Soetan – CEO, Ikeja Electric
Folake Soetan is the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Ikeja Electric Plc, Nigeria’s largest electricity distribution company. She assumed the role of Acting CEO in March 2020 and was later confirmed as the substantive CEO.
Mrs. Soetan began her career in the aviation sector, working with British Airways and Virgin Nigeria as Head of Sales. In 2009, she joined Sahara Group, serving as Vice President, Downstream – West Africa, where she led the expansion of the company’s downstream market into Ghana. She joined Ikeja Electric in 2015 as Chief Commercial Officer and later became Chief Operating Officer before her appointment as CEO.
She holds a degree in Banking and Finance from the University of Lagos and is an alumna of Harvard Business School, where she earned certification in Advanced Management.
Miriam Olusanya – CEO, GTBank
Miriam Olusanya is the Managing Director/CEO of Guaranty Trust Bank (GTBank) Nigeria, making history in July 2021 as the bank’s first female MD.
She graduated with a degree in Pharmacy from the University of Ibadan and holds a Master of Business Administration from the University of Liverpool.
– Advertisement –
Joining GTBank as an executive trainee in 1998, Olusanya advanced through various roles, including Group Treasurer and Head of Wholesale Banking, before her appointment as Managing Director.
Beyond her role at GTBank, she serves as a non-executive director on the Board of GTBank (Gambia) Limited. In 2023, she was honored with the national award.
Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe – CEO, Fidelity Bank
Onyeali-Ikpe, a trained lawyer, became Fidelity Bank’s first female CEO in January 2021 after joining as an Executive Director in 2015. Under her leadership, the bank has embraced innovation, expanded digital banking, and secured CBN approval to acquire Fidelity Bank UK Limited. Her exceptional leadership has earned her multiple accolades, including Banker of the Year 2022, Best Banking CEO Nigeria 2023, and recognition among Nigeria’s Top 25 CEOs in 2023.
Yetunde Oni – CEO, Union Bank
Oni, an Economics graduate, became CEO of Union Bank in 2024. She previously made history as the first female CEO of Standard Bank in Sierra Leone. With a banking career spanning over three decades, she started at Prime Merchant Bank in 1991 before moving to Ecobank Nigeria (1994–2005) as a Relationship Manager. She later joined Standard Chartered Bank Nigeria in 2005, rising to lead its Commercial Banking unit in West Africa.
Halima Buba – CEO, SunTrust Bank
Halima Buba is a distinguished Nigerian banker and business executive, currently serving as the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of SunTrust Bank Nigeria Limited
Buba earned both her Bachelor of Science degree in Business Management and her Master of Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Maiduguri. She is also an alumna of the Lagos Business School’s Senior Management Program.
With over 22 years of experience in the banking sector, Buba has held significant positions at several prominent financial institutions, including: Allstates Trust Bank, Zenith Bank, Inland Bank Plc, Oceanic Bank Plc and Ecobank Nigeria Limited.
Tomi Somefun – CEO, Unity Bank
Oluwatomi Somefun, a graduate of English Education, has been the CEO of Unity Bank since August 2015, making her one of Nigeria’s longest-serving female bank CEOs. Before her appointment, she served as an Executive Director, overseeing operations in the Lagos and South-West regions.
Yemisi Edun – Managing Director/CEO, FCMB
Edun, a chemistry graduate, became FCMB’s first female CEO in 2021. Previously the Chief Financial Officer, she has driven the bank’s expansion in SME lending, especially for women entrepreneurs. Through the SheVentures initiative, FCMB has funded over 50,000 women-owned businesses. In 2023, Leadership Newspaper named her Banker of the Year for her impact on SME financing and business credit facilitation.
Nneka Enwereji – CEO, Citibank Nigeria
Nneka Enwereji became CEO of Citibank Nigeria in 2024, bringing over 31 years of banking experience across Markets, Corporate & Investment Banking, Transaction Services, Risk Management, and Operations. Before her appointment, she served as Citi’s Head of Global Network Banking (GNB) for the Sub-Saharan Africa sub-cluster.
Owen Omogiafo – CEO of Trancorp
Owen Omogiafo is a distinguished Nigerian business executive renowned for her leadership in the corporate sector. Born on May 28, 1980, in Benin City, Nigeria, she has built an impressive career characterized by strategic vision and transformative initiatives.
Omogiafo holds a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology and Anthropology from the University of Benin. She furthered her education with a Master of Science in Human Resource Management from the London School of Economics and Political Science. Additionally, she is an alumna of the Lagos Business School and IESE Business School in Spain. Her professional affiliations include membership in the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (UK) and certification as a Change Manager from the Prosci Institute (USA)
She began in stockbroking before transitioning to banking, where she held roles in operations, service quality management, and relationship management. At Accenture, she specialized in change management, consulting for both private and public sector clients.
Serving as Chief of Staff and Human Resource Advisor to the Group Managing Director/CEO, she played a pivotal role in organizational development
As Director of Human Resources at Heirs Holdings, she established optimal organizational structures. At the Tony Elumelu Foundation, she was Chief Operating Officer, overseeing a $100 million program to mentor and fund 10,000 entrepreneurs over a decade.
Joining as Executive Director of Corporate Services in 2018, she advanced to Managing Director/CEO of Transcorp Hotels Plc, overseeing flagship properties like Transcorp Hilton Abuja. In March 2020, she became President and Group CEO of Transcorp, making her the youngest and first female to hold this position.
Victoria Ajayi – CEO, TVC Communications
Victoria Abiola Ajayi is a seasoned business leader and certified chartered accountant with nearly two decades of experience in financial management, strategic planning, and corporate governance.
She currently serves as the Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of TVC Communications, a prominent Nigerian media company overseeing brands such as TVC News, TVC Entertainment, Max FM, and Adaba FM.
Before her appointment as CEO, Ajayi held the position of Deputy Chief Financial Officer at TVC Communications. In this role, she demonstrated exceptional leadership and financial acumen, contributing significantly to the company’s growth and operational efficiency. Her strategic insights and dedication to excellence have been instrumental in shaping the company’s direction and success.
Ajayi assumed the role of CEO following the departure of Andrew Hanlon, who led the company for seven years and achieved a 330% growth across all TV, radio, and social media channels.
Under Ajayi’s leadership, TVC Communications continues to uphold its values of excellence, integrity, and innovation, further strengthening its position in the Nigerian media landscape.
Beyond her corporate responsibilities, Ajayi is a passionate advocate for women’s leadership. She chairs the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants Women’s Network Nigeria (ACCA WNN), where she mentors and supports women in their professional journeys. She is also the author of “The Precision-Led Woman,” a book celebrating purposeful and impactful womanhood.
Kafilat Araoye – CEO, Lotus Bank
Kafilat Araoye is a seasoned Nigerian banker with over 30 years of experience in the financial sector. She currently serves as the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of LOTUS Bank, a non-interest financial institution in Nigeria.
Araoye holds a Bachelor’s degree in History from the University of Ife, now Obafemi Awolowo University, obtained in 1985. She furthered her education with a Master of Science in Industrial Relations and Personnel Management from the University of Lagos in 1987. Additionally, she has earned Islamic Finance certifications from institutions such as the Ethica Institute of Islamic Finance, the Chartered Institute for Securities & Investment/Bahrain Institute of Banking & Finance, and the Islamic Research & Training Institute. Her commitment to continuous learning is evident through her participation in executive management courses at the Cranfield School of Management (UK), Lagos Business School, Institute of Management Development (Switzerland), and INSEAD (France).
Araoye began her career in 1988 at National Oil and Chemicals Marketing Company Plc (now Conoil Nigeria Plc). In 1990, she transitioned to Guaranty Trust Bank Plc (GTBank) as the pioneer head of Human Resources. During her tenure at GTBank, she was part of the team that implemented the bank’s core banking application in Jordan, among other critical assignments. Her extensive experience spans various areas of core banking, including international and domestic operations, payments, general management, business development, risk management, human resources, and strategy.
As the Managing Director/CEO of LOTUS Bank, Araoye leads one of Nigeria’s prominent non-interest financial institutions. Under her leadership, the bank has expanded its services, including the digitalization of its operations across multiple branches in Lagos. The bank offers online account opening, USSD banking, issuance of free debit cards to account holders, and zero account maintenance charges. LOTUS Bank’s innovative approach to expanding banking access has been recognized within the industry.
Adaobi Nwakuche – CEO, Veritas Kapital Assurance Plc
Dr. Adaobi Nwakuche is the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Veritas Kapital Assurance PLC, a prominent Nigerian insurance company. With over 23 years of experience in the insurance industry, she has held various leadership positions in top insurance firms
Dr. Nwakuche began her insurance career in 1997 and has since developed extensive expertise in underwriting, claims management, and risk assessment. She is an alumna of both the Harvard Kennedy School and the Lagos Business School, and has participated in various national and international executive-level training programs
In her role as CEO of Veritas Kapital Assurance PLC, Dr. Nwakuche has been instrumental in steering the company towards innovation and growth, adapting to industry demands and enhancing customer satisfaction. Her leadership has been pivotal in maintaining the company’s position in a competitive market.
Beyond her corporate responsibilities, Dr. Nwakuche contributes to the broader community. Notably, she served as a judge for the 45th Grand Coronation of Miss Nigeria, reflecting her engagement in societal and cultural initiatives.
Dr. Nwakuche’s extensive experience and commitment to excellence continue to influence the Nigerian insurance sector positively.
Uzo Oshogwe – CEO, Transcorp Hotels PLC
Uzoamaka (“Uzo”) Oshogwe is the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer (MD/CEO) of Transcorp Hotels Plc, a leading hospitality company in Nigeria. She assumed this role on January 1, 2025, succeeding Dupe Olusola.
With over 30 years of experience, Mrs. Oshogwe has held significant leadership positions across various industries. Prior to joining Transcorp Hotels, she served as the MD/CEO of Afriland Properties Plc, a prominent property management, investment, and development company in Nigeria
Her career also includes roles at United Bank for Africa and Accenture UK, where she honed her skills in strategic growth and value delivery. Mrs. Oshogwe is an alumna of the Advanced Management Program (AMP) at Lagos Business School and IESE Business School in Barcelona, Spain. This advanced training has equipped her with a global perspective on business management and leadership.
In her role as MD/CEO, Mrs. Oshogwe is expected to leverage her extensive experience to drive the next phase of growth for Transcorp Hotels Plc. Her appointment comes at a time when the company is expanding its footprint in the hospitality industry, and her leadership is anticipated to enhance strategic initiatives and operational excellence.
Nike Macaulay – CEO, Wakanow Dotcom
Adenike Macaulay is the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Wakanow, a leading online travel agency in Nigeria. She assumed the role in January 2023, bringing over 15 years of experience in the travel industry to the position.
Macaulay holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Systems Engineering from the University of Lagos. She furthered her education by obtaining a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Warwick in the United Kingdom. Additionally, she earned a Professional Diploma from the Digital Marketing Institute in Ireland, showcasing her commitment to continuous learning and adaptation in the evolving travel industry.
Before joining Wakanow, Macaulay had a successful career in the aviation sector. She spent over a decade with the Lufthansa Group, where she held various positions across Sub-Saharan Africa. Her roles included Regional Marketing Manager and Head of Sales, Products, and Programs, where she oversaw diverse teams and contributed to the company’s growth in the region.
In July 2021, Macaulay joined Wakanow as the Chief Commercial Officer, leading the company’s commercial activities. Her tenure in this role was marked by significant milestones and record-breaking results, reflecting her strategic vision and leadership capabilities.
As CEO, Macaulay has been instrumental in steering Wakanow’s growth trajectory in Nigeria. Under her leadership, the company has expanded into new verticals and countries across Africa and beyond, leveraging technology and strategic partnerships to enhance the travel experience for customers.
Linda Ifeoma Ikeji – CEO, Linda Ikeji Blog
Linda Ifeoma Ikeji is a Nigerian media entrepreneur, blogger, and the CEO of Linda Ikeji Blog (LIB), one of Africa’s most influential online news and entertainment platforms. She pioneered blogging in Nigeria, becoming one of the highest-earning bloggers on the continent.
Born on September 19, 1980, in Nkwerre, Imo State, Linda studied Mass Communication at the University of Lagos. She initially pursued a career in modeling and writing before launching her blog in 2006.
Linda Ikeji Blog started as a personal hobby but quickly gained traction for its celebrity gossip, entertainment news, and lifestyle content. It became one of Nigeria’s top-ranking websites, earning revenue through ads and brand sponsorships. Beyond blogging, Linda has expanded her media empire with ventures like Linda Ikeji TV (LITV), an online streaming platform, and Linda Ikeji Social, a short-lived social networking site.
Linda welcomed her son, Jayce Jeremi, in 2018, with businessman Sholaye Jeremi as the father. She has inspired many young entrepreneurs, particularly women, and is known for her philanthropy, especially through the “I’d Rather Be Self-Made” project, which empowers women financially. Her success story remains a blueprint for digital entrepreneurship in Nigeria and Africa.
Bukky George – CEO and founder of HealthPlus Nigeria
Bukky George is a Nigerian pharmacist, entrepreneur, and the founder of HealthPlus Nigeria, one of the country’s largest retail pharmacy chains. She played a pioneering role in revolutionizing pharmacy services in Nigeria by integrating wellness, beauty, and healthcare solutions into a single retail experience.
Bukky George is a qualified pharmacist with a passion for accessible healthcare. She studied Pharmacy at the University of Lagos and later attended business and leadership programs at Lagos Business School, IESE Business School, and Harvard Business School.
She founded HealthPlus Limited in 1999, growing it into a leading pharmacy chain with over 90 outlets across Nigeria. Under her leadership, HealthPlus set new standards for retail pharmacy, focusing on quality medication, patient education, and excellent customer service. Bukky also established CasaBella International, a beauty and personal care retail store, further expanding her influence in the health and wellness sector.
In 2020, Bukky was controversially ousted from HealthPlus by the private equity firm Alta Semper Capital, which had invested in the company. The board appointed a new CEO, leading to a legal battle and public dispute over control of the business. Despite this, Bukky George remains a respected figure in Nigeria’s pharmaceutical and business landscape.
Bukky George is celebrated for transforming the pharmacy industry in Nigeria, empowering female entrepreneurs, and advocating for improved healthcare access. She remains an influential voice in business and healthcare. 🚀
Alaba Fagun – CEO, Berger Paints Nigeria PLC
Alaba Fagun is the Group Managing Director (GMD) of Berger Paints Nigeria Plc, a prominent position she assumed in May 2024 after serving as the company’s Managing Director since October 2022.
Alaba Fagun is the Group Managing Director (GMD) of Berger Paints Nigeria Plc, a prominent position she assumed in May 2024 after serving as the company’s Managing Director since October 2022.
Fagun holds a Bachelor of Environmental Science and a Bachelor of Architecture (Distinction) from the University of Lagos, Nigeria. Her academic foundation in architecture has been instrumental in shaping her approach to project management and facilities management.
With over 19 years of experience, Fagun’s career encompasses significant roles in architecture, project management, and facilities management. She was the founding Managing Director of UPDC Facility Management Limited (UPDCFM), where she laid the groundwork for the company’s operations. Her tenure at Union Bank of Nigeria Plc saw her as the Head of Facilities Management and Major Projects, overseeing substantial infrastructural developments. Additionally, she served as Senior Manager Properties at Broll Property Services Limited, further cementing her expertise in property management
Fagun is a member of the Institute of Directors (IOD) and the Institute of Workplace and Facilities Management (IWFM), reflecting her dedication to continuous professional development and adherence to industry best practices.
Since joining Berger Paints Nigeria Plc, Fagun has been pivotal in steering the company towards innovation and sustainability. Her leadership focuses on enhancing productivity through environmental sustainability initiatives, aligning with global best practices. Under her guidance, the company has seen significant advancements in operational efficiency and market presence.
Fagun’s comprehensive background and strategic leadership continue to drive Berger Paints Nigeria Plc towards achieving its corporate goals and maintaining its status as a leader in the paint manufacturing industry.
Bukola Smith – CEO, FSDH Merchant Bank
Bukola Smith is the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of FSDH Merchant Bank, a position she assumed in April 2021. With over 29 years of experience in the banking industry, she has established a reputation for strategic execution and leadership.
Smith holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Economics from the University of Lagos and an MBA from Alliance Manchester Business School, University of Manchester, UK. She is a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN), an Honorary Member of the Chartered Institute of Bankers, and an Associate Member of the Certified Institute of Pensions in Nigeria
Prior to her current role at FSDH Merchant Bank, Smith served as the Executive Director of Business Development at First City Monument Bank (FCMB) from 2012 to 2021. During her tenure at FCMB, she was responsible for overseeing over 200 branches nationwide and led divisions such as Public Sector, Business Banking, Agriculture, and Transaction Banking. Under her leadership, the bank’s SME-focused team rose from the 5th position to 1st in the industry within three years, as reported in the KPMG Customer Service Report 2020
Since taking the helm at FSDH Merchant Bank, Smith has been instrumental in driving innovation and fostering economic development. Her leadership emphasizes empowering businesses and enabling growth, aligning with the bank’s commitment to providing tailored financial services.
Smith’s extensive experience and strategic vision continue to position FSDH Merchant Bank as a key player in Nigeria’s financial sector.
Patience Dappa – CEO, Master Energy Group
Barrister (Mrs.) Patience Dappa is the Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Masters Energy Group, a diversified Nigerian conglomerate with interests spanning oil and gas, power, and various other sectors.
Dappa holds a Bachelor of Laws degree from the University of Calabar and a Master of Laws from the University of Lagos. She further specialized by earning a Master’s in Maritime Law from Metropolitan University, London, and a Master’s in Humanitarian and Refugee Studies from the University of Lagos. Additionally, she is a Chartered Arbitrator and a member of both the International and Nigerian Bar Associations
With over 30 years in the legal profession, Dappa began her career at Alegeh & Associates, focusing on property, company law, and litigation. She later served as Company Secretary and Legal Adviser at T & A Management Consultants before founding her own law firm, Pat Dappa & Associates. In 2005, she was appointed by the Delta State Government to review state laws, providing her with in-depth exposure to constitutional matters.
Under Dappa’s leadership, Masters Energy Group has experienced significant growth and diversification. Her strategic vision has been instrumental in expanding the company’s footprint in the oil and gas industry, as well as in other sectors such as power and maritime services. Her management skills have been credited with driving the company’s phenomenal growth and expansion in recent years.
Share News with us via WhatsApp: 09012328285 or Email: [email protected]
?Join Our Social Media Channels:
Full Story: https://www.intelregion.com/entertainment/20-female-ceos-of-top-companies-in-nigeria-2025-that-you-should-know/
TAGS: #female #CEOs #top #companies #Nigeria
Leave a Reply