economy Archives - StateCraft Inc.

Adaora Umeoji

Adaora Remy Umeoji, a distinguished leader hailing from Nigeria, continues to blaze trails as a catalyst for positive change within her community and beyond. Rooted in her cultural heritage and fueled by an unwavering determination to overcome challenges, Adaora’s journey exemplifies resilience and visionary leadership.

With a stellar academic background, Adaora earned her MBA from the prestigious University of Calabar, building upon her undergraduate studies at the University of Jos and doctoral degree from Apollos University. She further expanded her knowledge through graduate studies at the University of Salford and Baze University, demonstrating not only academic excellence but also a commitment to holistic development.

Throughout her educational pursuits, Adaora showcased her leadership prowess and dedication to community service through active involvement in extracurricular activities. This laid the foundation for her purpose-driven career focused on fostering social change and economic development.

Adaora’s professional journey has been marked by collaboration with diverse organizations and grassroots movements, with a particular emphasis on advocating for women’s rights, educational equity, and economic empowerment. Her vocal stance on gender equality has propelled her to lead numerous initiatives empowering women and girls to reach their full potential.

In addition to her professional commitments, Adaora remains deeply engaged in community service, generously volunteering her time and resources to support local initiatives and philanthropic causes. Her compassion, generosity, and steadfast commitment to uplifting the marginalized epitomize her dedication to creating tangible, positive change.

With her recent appointment as the Group Managing Director/CEO of Zenith Bank Nigeria Plc, Adaora’s visionary leadership reaches new heights. In this role, she continues to inspire excellence and make meaningful contributions to societal advancement. Her resolute vision, tenacity, and unwavering advocacy for social justice cement her status as an unstoppable force for positive transformation, both locally and globally.

Chioma Ude

Chioma Ude is one of Africa’s most successful business leaders and media executives having founded the Africa International Film Festival – AFRIFF, co-founded the Africa Foundation for the development of Motion Pictures, Arts and Culture – AFDMAC, a non-profit championing African voices in Film, Arts and Culture, and Lavida Africa Studios and Entertainment, a film and TV production company.

A serial entrepreneur, Chioma serves on the board of several companies in technology, Agriculture, Real Estate etc, focusing on new opportunities to improve the narrative about Africa. Her endeavors overall, are based on her belief that training and empowering young individuals, especially young women, will foster a greater, brighter Africa.

A passionate film lover and commentator, Ude turned her interest into action when she helped produce the Nigerian Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) UK Roadshow in 2007. She went on to oversee logistics for the 2008 African Movie Academy Awards (AMAA) as well as create the novel concept of the AMAA Charity Benefit which she produced for two years. In 2009, Chioma was the local Nigerian producer for the ION International Film Festival (IONIFF), a global touring festival founded in Hollywood to promote global awareness and peace via art, culture, and film. In 2010, she founded the Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF).

Under her vision the privately funded AFRIFF has grown into the most vibrant film festival experience in Africa and one of the most important film event dates on the continent since its launch in 2010. In its 12th edition in 2023, AFRIFF has grown its reputation as the energetic and vibrant hub for filmmaking connections, attracting over 10,000 international and domestic participants. Just as important, AFRIFF has trained over 10,000 young adults in film and television through beginner, intermediate and master classes with mentors from Europe, Asia, Africa, and America. These classes are provided during festivals free of charge as part of her mission to empower Africa’s youth.

Chioma’s goals for AFRIFF are to enable the African film community to establish bridges for partnership with international counterparts and help ensure that quality, professional expertise and global standards are met across the local industry, accelerating its sustainable development.

In 2019, Chioma cofounded LaVida Africa Studios and Entertainment.  Under the LaVida shingle, she has signed a landmark 50-million-dollar deal with Dentsu’s StoryLab to produce a catalogue of 10 scripted series and feature films.

Chioma’s additional business accomplishments include her role as Managing Director and CEO of JATA Logistics LTD where she expanded the company’s fortunes by moving its core focus from logistics services like travel management to business support services and events management—still a passion of hers today. From 2006 to 2009, JATA managed various investor fora as well as local and international IPO roadshows for companies including Interstate Data USA and Global Biofuels, growing the company’s net worth to millions of dollars.

Ude earned a degree in marketing from University of Nigeria, Nsukka.

Tokunboh George-Taylor

Tokunboh George-Taylor is a prominent figure in the African public relations landscape, renowned for her exceptional leadership and remarkable achievements in directing corporate services and communications for over 14 years at Oando, a leading energy conglomerate. In 2015, she assumed the role of CEO at Hill & Knowlton Nigeria, where she led the agency to unprecedented success, earning numerous prestigious accolades along the way.

In a recent milestone, George-Taylor founded Skot Communications, a strategic move that resulted in the acquisition of Hill+Knowlton Nigeria’s business and assets. This strategic transition saw a talented team of 21 professionals and esteemed clientele like Netflix, Visa, and GE Vernova seamlessly joining Skot Communications. With strategic locations in Lagos and London, Skot Communications has emerged as a premier global consultancy, renowned for its specialized expertise across diverse sectors such as finance, energy, technology, healthcare, and entertainment.

Under George-Taylor’s visionary leadership, Skot Communications continues to elevate the standards of strategic communications consultancy, fostering growth and success on a global scale. Her dedication to excellence and innovative approach to public relations have positioned her as a driving force in shaping the future of communications in Africa and beyond.

Temie Giwa-Tubosun

Temie Giwa-Tubosun’s remarkable journey is characterized by unwavering dedication and a steadfast commitment to impactful initiatives aimed at addressing critical healthcare challenges in Nigeria. Born in Nigeria and educated in the United States, she leveraged her diverse experiences to drive positive change in her homeland’s healthcare landscape.

Following internships with prestigious organizations such as the World Health Organization and the Department for International Development, Temie Giwa-Tubosun immersed herself in global health efforts. Upon returning to Nigeria, she founded the One Percent Blood Donation Enlightenment Foundation, a pioneering initiative aimed at combating blood shortages by raising awareness about the importance of blood donation.

Temie’s visionary leadership and passion for healthcare innovation led to the creation of LifeBank in 2016, a groundbreaking platform revolutionizing medical distribution in Nigeria. Through the innovative use of data and technology, LifeBank has played a pivotal role in alleviating blood scarcity and ensuring timely access to life-saving medical supplies. Her transformative work has garnered widespread recognition from global leaders such as Mark Zuckerberg and prestigious awards like the Global Citizen Prize, further solidifying her status as a trailblazer in the field of healthcare.

Temie Giwa-Tubosun’s tireless efforts serve as a beacon of hope, inspiring positive change and saving countless lives across Nigeria. Her exemplary leadership, compassion, and dedication to improving healthcare access exemplify the profound impact that individuals can have in shaping a healthier future for communities worldwide.

Susan Anisa Younis

Susan Anisa Younis has had a colourful and varied global career in marketing and content production, with over 15 years experience working in the USA, Europe and across Africa. She is a trailblazer in her field and has made significant contributions to the industry throughout her career at multinationals including Apple, Warner Music Group, Multichoice, NBC Universal and Viacom.

At Platoon, Apple’s Creative Artist Services division, Susan was the Marketing Lead for Africa. She helped independent artists become superstars, overseeing the marketing for top African artists including, Ayra Starr, Asa, Simi, and Spinall. Like a fairy godmother, but for music!

Susan has also held prominent marketing positions at Warner Music Group, Multichoice, and NBC Universal, where she demonstrated her ability to drive growth and success through out-of-the-box marketing strategies.

Susan was responsible for global campaigns for Black music artists during her tenure at Warner Music Group. She played a vital role in expanding the reach of these artists, including Stormzy, by helping him enter new global markets and have the biggest international album of his career “Heavy Is The Head”. One of her biggest successes was working on the global Roddy Ricch single campaign “The Box”, which resulted in the Number 1 song in the world.

Before transitioning into marketing, Susan developed her content skills as an accomplished Executive Producer. She has extensive experience in leading production for high-profile events such as E! Entertainment’s red carpet coverage in South Africa and working across Viacom’s production slate in Europe and Africa. During the latter tenure, she traveled the world producing and directing content, including flagship shows, The Lick, The Big Friday Show and TRL, as well as major award shows, MTV EMAs and MAMAs. Susan’s leadership of the Viacom production team resulted in a 55% increase in viewership for MTV’s placement on Nigerian terrestrial channel, STV in Nigeria.

She continues to bring her wealth of experience, skills, and expertise to her clients, making her one of the most sought-after marketing and content experts in the industry.

Yemisi Edun

Yemisi Edun has made significant strides as the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of First City Monument Bank (FCMB), achieving a historic milestone as the first woman to hold this prestigious position. Her appointment in July 2021, succeeding Adam Nuhu, was a testament to her outstanding qualifications and nearly 35 years of exemplary service in the banking sector.

Mrs. Edun began her illustrious career in 1987 at Akintola Williams Deloitte, where she gained expertise in corporate finance and auditing, particularly within banks and financial institutions. Joining FCMB in 2000, she rose through the ranks from Divisional Head of Internal Audit and Control to Chief Financial Officer, demonstrating exceptional leadership and strategic acumen along the way.

With academic achievements including a bachelor’s degree in chemistry from the University of Ife, Ile-Ife, and a master’s degree in international accounting and finance from the University of Liverpool, United Kingdom, Mrs. Edun’s commitment to excellence is evident. Additionally, her prestigious affiliations, such as being a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria and a CFA Charter holder, underscore her dedication to professional excellence and continued growth in the banking industry.

Through her leadership at FCMB, Mrs. Edun continues to pave the way for women in the banking sector while upholding the highest standards of integrity, innovation, and service excellence.

Stella Okoli

Stella Okoli’s entrepreneurial journey is a testament to her resilience, foresight, and unwavering commitment to excellence. With a solid foundation laid through her invaluable experience in pharmaceutical firms such as Middlesex Hospital in London, Boots the Chemists Limited, and Pharma-Deko, she embarked on a path that would redefine Nigeria’s pharmaceutical landscape.

In January 1977, Stella Okoli took the bold step of founding Emzor Pharmaceutical, initially named “Emzor Chemists Limited,” starting with a modest pharmacy retail shop in Somolu, Lagos State. Through her visionary leadership and dedication to quality, Emzor Pharmaceutical rapidly expanded, evolving into a powerhouse in Nigeria’s pharmaceutical sector. Since its formal incorporation in 1984, the company has flourished, boasting a diverse portfolio of over 50 products that have become household names across the nation.

Beyond her remarkable business acumen, Stella Okoli actively contributes to Nigeria’s economic and health sectors. She holds positions of influence on esteemed platforms such as the Economic Summit of Nigeria and the Health Matters Advisory Board of Nigeria. Additionally, her leadership roles in prominent associations like the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria and the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture demonstrate her pivotal role in shaping Nigeria’s industrial and commercial landscape.

As a trailblazer in the pharmaceutical industry, Stella Okoli has chaired pivotal groups like the Pharmaceutical Manufacturers Group, leaving an indelible mark on Nigeria’s healthcare sector. Her legacy of entrepreneurship, leadership, and dedication to societal impact continues to inspire generations of Nigerians, cementing her status as a true icon in the country’s business landscape.

Somachi Chris-Asoluka

Somachi Chris-Asoluka stands as a beacon of visionary leadership and impactful philanthropy as the CEO of the Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF). In her role, Somachi oversees the Foundation’s transformative initiatives aimed at empowering young African entrepreneurs across all 54 countries on the continent. With a focus on strategic marketing, corporate communications, and policy advocacy, she orchestrates the Foundation’s multifaceted operations, driving its mission to catalyze economic growth and job creation in Africa.

Prior to assuming the CEO position, Somachi distinguished herself as the Director of Partnerships and Communication at TEF. In this capacity, she played a pivotal role in forging strategic collaborations with esteemed organizations such as the European Union, UNDP, and Google, contributing to the Foundation’s remarkable impact. Under her leadership, TEF facilitated direct funding for over 18,000 African entrepreneurs, leading to the creation of more than 400,000 jobs across communities on the continent.

Somachi’s academic journey reflects her unwavering commitment to excellence, having graduated Summa Cum Laude from Saint Mary’s College of California and earning a Master’s Degree from Yale University. Her academic achievements are complemented by her active involvement in esteemed associations, highlighting her dedication to advancing global economic empowerment and women’s leadership in Africa.

Through her visionary leadership and dedication to empowering African entrepreneurs, Somachi Chris-Asoluka continues to shape the landscape of philanthropy and economic development in Africa, leaving an indelible mark on communities across the continent.

Owen Omogiafo

Owen Omogiafo possesses a rich and diverse professional background, spanning human resources, banking, consulting, and organizational management. Her journey began in stockbroking before transitioning to the banking sector, where she honed her skills in operations, service quality management, and relationship management.

Throughout her career, Owen has held significant roles at renowned organizations, including Heirs Holdings, United Bank for Africa (UBA), and Accenture. At Heirs Holdings, she served as the Director of Resources and later assumed the position of Chief Operating Officer at the Tony Elumelu Foundation, where she oversaw a program dedicated to supporting entrepreneurs.

Joining Transcorp, Owen’s trajectory continued to ascend as she assumed roles such as Executive Director of Corporate Services. Eventually, she rose to become the Managing Director and CEO of Transcorp Hotels Plc, where she played a pivotal role in steering the company’s growth and strategic direction.

In a groundbreaking move, Owen was appointed as the President and CEO of Transcorp in March 2020, making her the youngest CEO on the Nigerian Stock Exchange and the first female to hold the position at Transcorp Group. Her appointment reflects her exceptional leadership qualities and strategic vision.

Beyond her executive roles, Owen is actively involved in various boards, including the Association of Power Generation Companies (APGC) in Nigeria. She also holds non-executive director positions in companies such as Transcorp Power Limited, Transcorp Hotels Plc, and Avon Healthcare Limited.

Owen Omogiafo’s illustrious career trajectory and commitment to excellence have earned her widespread admiration and recognition, positioning her as a trailblazer and influential leader in Nigeria’s corporate landscape.

Omoyemi Akerele

Omoyemi Akerele, a native of Lagos, Nigeria, embarked on a remarkable journey from law to fashion, leaving an indelible mark on the African fashion landscape. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Law from the University of Lagos and further pursued a Master’s degree in International Economic Law at the University of Warwick.

Transitioning from her legal background, Akerele co-established Exclusive Styling in 2004, where she curated looks for TV celebrities, showcasing her innate sense of style. Her tenure as fashion editor at True Love magazine from 2005 to 2010 further solidified her reputation as a tastemaker and trendsetter in the industry.

In 2008, Akerele founded Style House Files, a pioneering platform dedicated to nurturing the growth of the Nigerian and African fashion sectors. Her visionary leadership led to the creation of Lagos Fashion Week in 2011, which has since become a premier platform showcasing the works of over 60 African designers annually, elevating African fashion on the global stage.

Beyond her contributions to the runway, Akerele’s impact extends to advocacy for sustainable fashion and economic development. Her advisory role at MoMA’s “Items: Is Fashion Modern?” exhibition in 2017 and her appointment as Nigeria’s Zero Oil Ambassador in 2021 demonstrate her commitment to promoting sustainability and driving economic progress through fashion.

In 2022, Akerele’s influence reached new heights when footage from Lagos Fashion Week was featured at the Victoria & Albert Museum’s “Africa Fashion” exhibition. She delivered a keynote address at the event, solidifying her position as a leading voice in African fashion advocacy on the global stage. Her visionary leadership, dedication to sustainability, and advocacy for African fashion have earned her widespread admiration and acclaim, establishing her as a trailblazer and icon in the industry.

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