Ibukun Awosika shines in Africa’s business world. She leads with vision and a drive for change. Her strong leadership and enterprise empower many, especially women. Nigeria named her the first female Chairperson of First Bank of Nigeria. She leads one of the nation’s oldest banks. Her work lights a clear path for new business leaders across the continent.
Early Life and Education
Ibukun was born on December 24, 1962, in Ibadan, Nigeria. She is the third child among seven siblings. She grew up in Lagos, where she studied at St. Paul’s African Church Primary School and Methodist Girls’ High School in Yaba. Later, she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry from the University of Ife. At first, she planned to study architecture but chose chemistry instead. She later built more skills at Lagos Business School and IESE Business School at the University of Navarra. Both experiences strengthened her path into business.
Career and Entrepreneurial Journey
Her career began during her National Youth Service Corps in Kano State. She worked as an audit trainee at Akintola Williams & Co. After her service, she joined Alibert Nigeria Ltd. as a showroom manager in the furniture business. Soon, she started her own company, SOKOA Chair Centre Limited. Her firm makes and sells furniture with care and expertise. Awosika then took a major step by becoming the first female Chairperson of First Bank of Nigeria. In this role, she favors innovation, diversity, and strong corporate governance. Her success broke long-held gender barriers. In September 2022, she joined the Binance Global Advisory Board, showing her influence in global finance and technology.
Media Presence and Authorship
Awosika is active in the media. In 2008, she appeared on the African edition of Dragon’s Den. She also hosts the television show Business His Way. On the show, she offers ideas and guidance to new entrepreneurs. She has written books like The "Girl" Entrepreneurs and Business His Way. Her writing speaks about female entrepreneurship and smart business practices. Through her media work and books, she motivates women and young people to work with determination and good ethics.
Awards and Recognition
Awosika has earned many awards. She received the FATE Foundation’s Model Entrepreneur Award of the Year. She also won the Golden Heart Award from the International Women Society. In 2020, Forbes honored her with the Woman Africa Chairperson Award. Her many honors, both in Nigeria and across Africa, show her lasting impact on business and leadership.
Personal Life and Legacy
Ibukun Awosika is married to Abiodun Awosika. Together, they have three children. People view her not just as a business leader but also as a caring mentor. She inspires African women to lead and build new ventures. Her story shows that vision and hard work can change lives. With her steady guidance and passion for empowering others, she continues to shape modern African business and leadership.
In summary, Ibukun Awosika’s journey from her early days in Ibadan to becoming the first female Chairperson of First Bank of Nigeria marks a major milestone in Africa’s quest for business excellence and gender equality. Her leadership, entrepreneurial success, and commitment to empowering women build a legacy that reaches far beyond Nigeria’s borders.
