Dr. Ibukun Awosika
Founder & CEO, The Chair Center group
Nigeria
Dr. Ibukun Awosika
Avance Media proudly recognizes Dr Ibukunoluwa Abiodun Awosika in the distinguished 5th list of 100 Most Influential African Women in 2023. A Nigerian businesswoman, motivational speaker, and accomplished author, Dr. Awosika holds the distinction of being the first female Chairperson of the First Bank of Nigeria. Her visionary leadership and remarkable contributions have earned her a well-deserved place among Africa’s most influential women.
Born on December 24, 1962, in Ibadan, Oyo State, Dr. Ibukun Awosika’s journey began as the third child in a family of seven. She completed her primary and secondary education at St. Paul’s African Church Primary School, Lagos, and Methodist Girls’ High School, Yaba, respectively. Her academic pursuits led her to the University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University), where she earned a BSc in Chemistry. Despite her initial interest in Architecture, she diversified her studies by taking elective courses in Accounting. Dr. Awosika further honed her business acumen through postgraduate and MBA programs at the Lagos Business School and IESE Business School – University of Navarra.
During her National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) in Kano State, Dr. Awosika worked as an audit trainee at Akintola Williams & Co. (later Deloitte). Following her service, she joined Alibert Nigeria Ltd., a furniture company, as a showroom manager. In 1989, driven by a desire for independence, she founded Quebees Limited, a furniture manufacturing company, which later evolved into The Chair Centre Limited through a venture merge with SOKOA S.A and Guaranty Trust Bank in 2004.
A fellow of the African Leadership Initiative and Aspen Global Leadership Network, Dr. Awosika’s leadership roles include being a member of the Nigerian Economic Summit Group and the board of the Nigerian Sovereign Wealth Fund. She served as the former Chairperson, Board of Trustees of Women in Management, Business, and Public Service. In 2011, she co-founded the Afterschool Graduate Development Centre, addressing Nigeria’s unemployment challenges.
On September 7, 2015, Dr. Ibukun Awosika made history by becoming the first woman appointed as Chairman of First Bank of Nigeria, a testament to her exceptional leadership skills. She also serves on IESE’s International Advisory Board (IAB) and holds positions on the boards of Digital Jewel Limited and Cadbury Nig Plc.
Dr. Awosika’s influence extends to the media, where she showcased her entrepreneurial spirit on the African version of Dragon’s Den in 2008. Her television program, “Business His Way,” and her role in the 2020 movie “Citation” alongside Temi Otedola demonstrate her versatility.
Throughout her illustrious career, Dr. Ibukun Awosika has received numerous accolades, including the prestigious Forbes Woman Africa Chairperson Award at the Africa Forbes Woman Awards 2020. She has been recognized by institutions like FATE Foundation and the International Women Society, receiving awards such as the Golden Heart Award and the International Women Entrepreneurial Challenge Award.
Avance Media proudly acknowledges Dr. Ibukunoluwa Abiodun Awosika as one of the 100 Most Influential African Women in 2023. Her transformative leadership, entrepreneurial spirit, and dedication to societal impact solidify her as a beacon of inspiration for women across the continent. Dr. Awosika’s trailblazing journey continues to shape the narrative of African women in leadership, leaving an indelible mark on the business and financial landscape.
Photo Credit: The Annual Debate