Based on research, the finance sector in Nigeria is a key employer of women, especially in banking, insurance, and microfinance. While it may not be the largest sector employing women overall, more women have been stepping into leadership roles in recent years, demonstrating their hard work, determination, and resilience. At Bravewood, we believe that money should be cared for, and we’re excited to celebrate the women who are helping manage the finances of thousands—and even millions—of people.

• Miriam Olusanya: Managing Director, GTBank

Miriam Olusanya, the first female Managing Director of Guaranty Trust Bank (GTBank), brings over 20 years of banking experience to her role. She has held various leadership positions within the bank, including Executive Director of the Corporate Banking Group, where she played a key role in driving growth and innovation. Under her leadership, GTBank has solidified its status as a leading financial institution in Nigeria, emphasizing customer service and technological advancement. Her exceptional contributions have earned her recognition as one of the “Top 25 Women in African Banking” by African Banker Magazine and one of the “100 Most Influential Women in Nigeria” by the Nigerian Women’s Awards.

• Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe: Managing Director, Fidelity Bank

Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe, the first female Managing Director of Fidelity Bank, has over 30 years of experience in the banking sector. She has occupied several senior roles, including Executive Director of the Lagos and Southwest Directorate, significantly contributing to the bank’s expansion. Under her stewardship, Fidelity Bank has increased its market share and profitability, showcasing her strategic vision. Her outstanding leadership has been honored with the “Banker of the Year” title by the Nigerian Banking Industry Awards, alongside recognition as one of the “Top 25 Women in African Banking” by African Banker Magazine and one of the “100 Most Influential Women in Africa” by Forbes Africa.

• Maryam Adefarati: CFO, Microsoft Africa Chapter

Maryam Adefarati serves as the Chief Financial Officer of Microsoft Africa Chapter, with more than 20 years of finance experience. She has held pivotal roles within Microsoft, such as Finance Director for Microsoft Middle East and Africa, driving financial success across the region. Under her leadership, Microsoft Africa Chapter has achieved significant revenue and profitability growth, reflecting her financial acumen. Her achievements have been recognized with the “CFO of the Year” award by the African Finance Awards, as well as inclusion among the “Top 50 Women in Tech” by Forbes Africa and the “100 Most Influential Women in Tech” by the African Tech Awards.

• Halima Buba: CEO, Suntrust Bank

Halima Buba, the Chief Executive Officer of Suntrust Bank, has over 20 years of banking expertise. She has served in various leadership capacities, including Executive Director of the Corporate Banking Group, where she spearheaded the bank’s growth initiatives. Under her direction, Suntrust Bank has expanded its market presence and profitability, demonstrating her ability to navigate competitive landscapes. Her impactful leadership has earned her a spot among the “Top 25 Women in African Banking” by African Banker Magazine and the “100 Most Influential Women in Nigeria” by the Nigerian Women’s Awards.

• Patience Oniha: Director General, Debt Management Office

Patience Oniha, the Director General of Nigeria’s Debt Management Office (DMO), has over 20 years of experience in finance. She previously headed the DMO and has been instrumental in managing Nigeria’s debt portfolio. Under her leadership, the DMO has reduced debt servicing costs and improved the nation’s credit rating, showcasing her expertise in public finance. Her stellar performance has been acknowledged with the “Public Sector Leader of the Year” award by the Nigerian Finance Awards, alongside recognition as one of the “Top 50 Women in Public Service” by the Nigerian Public Service Awards and one of the “100 Most Influential Women in Public Service” by the African Public Service Awards.

• Modupe Kadiri: CFO, Dangote Cement

Modupe Kadiri, the Chief Financial Officer of Dangote Cement, has over 20 years of experience in the finance industry. She has held key roles, including Finance Director, significantly enhancing the company’s financial performance. Under her leadership, Dangote Cement has grown its revenue and profitability, cementing its position as a leading manufacturer in Africa. Her remarkable contributions have earned her recognition as one of the “Top 25 Women in African Business” by African Business Magazine and one of the “100 Most Influential Women in Business” by the African Business Awards.

• Aishah Ahmad: Deputy Governor, Central Bank of Nigeria

Aishah Ahmad, Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), has over 20 years of banking experience. She has held critical roles, such as Executive Director of the Financial Markets Department, shaping monetary policy and ensuring financial stability. Under her influence, the CBN has promoted economic growth and maintained stability, reflecting her policy expertise. Her achievements have been celebrated with the “Central Banker of the Year” award by the African Banking Awards, as well as inclusion among the “Top 25 Women in African Banking” by African Banker Magazine and the “100 Most Influential Women in Africa” by Forbes Africa.

• Ijeoma Esemudje: CFO, Standard Chartered

Ijeoma Esemudje, the Chief Financial Officer of Standard Chartered in Nigeria, has over 20 years of finance experience. She has occupied various leadership positions, including Finance Director, driving the bank’s financial success. Under her leadership, Standard Chartered Nigeria has seen growth in revenue and profitability, highlighting her strategic oversight. Her accomplishments have earned her recognition as one of the “Top 25 Women in African Banking” by African Banker Magazine and one of the “100 Most Influential Women in Finance” by the African Finance Awards.

These women have not only excelled in their roles but have also set a powerful example for future generations in Nigeria’s financial sector. Their achievements, , whether recognized with awards or quietly shaping their organizations, , show their strong impact on the industry. Their successes also tell an inspirational story to Nigerian women and women all over the world.  

Bravewood provides Nigerian professionals with low-risk, high-return investment products, licensed by the Central Bank of Nigeria.