The Nation Newspaper

Category: CEO

  • Achi appointed to IAAIEL Board of Trustees, Governing Council

    Achi appointed to IAAIEL Board of Trustees, Governing Council

    The International Academy of Artificial Intelligence and Experiential Learning (IAAIEL) has appointee Dr. Celestine Achi as a Member of its Board of Trustees and Governing Council. 

    Achi will also serve as the institution’s Director of Public Relations.

    A renowned AI educator, digital transformation strategist, and public relations innovator, Achi brings over three decades of thought leadership in strategic communications, AI-powered innovation, and capacity building. 

    He is the author of the widely acclaimed AI-Powered PR: The Essential Guide for Communications Leaders to Master Artificial Intelligence and developer of the pioneering TABS-D Framework for AI education.

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    In this new role, Achi will play a pivotal part in shaping the Academy’s strategic direction, promoting AI-powered learning, and advancing public understanding of artificial intelligence through communication excellence.

    “Dr. Achi’s appointment signals our commitment to leading-edge thought leadership, practical AI education, and global collaborations that elevate Africa’s role in shaping the future of AI,” said Secretary, Board of Trustees and Governing Council Dr Adedamola Olubode said. 

    In  his dual capacity as Director of Public Relations and Senior Lecturer,  Achi is set to deliver high-impact learning experiences that bridge the gap between theory and practice, preparing students and professionals alike for success in the AI era.

    IAAIEL operates under the Omniversity Group, a forward-thinking educational ecosystem committed to innovation and excellence.

  • Kayode Odeyinde: The architect of Africa’s health finance revolution

    Kayode Odeyinde: The architect of Africa’s health finance revolution

    In the evolving landscape of African healthcare, few names resonate with the same weight as Kayode Odeyinde, a visionary entrepreneur whose bold ideas and tireless execution have radically transformed the way healthcare is financed, accessed, and managed across Nigeria and Ghana. As the Co-founder and Chief Executive Officer of NucleusIS Africa, Kayode is not just building a company; he is building the very infrastructure on which the future of health insurance and medical access across Africa is being constructed.

    From Central Banking to Systemic Innovation

    Kayode’s journey began in one of the most trusted institutions on the continent, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), where he served as a Process Specialist in the Foreign Operations Department. His role was deeply technical and operational, overseeing compliance across more than 900 licensed financial institutions, enforcing foreign operations policies, and proposing regulatory innovations. This experience gave him not only regulatory expertise but also a systemic understanding of how to design large-scale, secure, and efficient systems—a foundation that would later inform his creation of Africa’s most advanced health insurance infrastructure.

    “Working at the Central Bank gave me a ringside view of how complex systems operate and how financial integrity can be built even in volatile environments,” he recalls. “It prepared me to understand both the architecture and the politics of health finance in emerging markets.”

    Building in the Hardest Places

    In 2019, Kayode co-founded NucleusIS Africa, a company at the cutting edge of healthcare technology and financing. His vision was clear: to democratize access to healthcare in a continent where health insurance penetration is less than 3 percent. Today, that vision has materialized into a platform that manages over 700,000 insured lives, provides services to 12 major Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs), and powers more than 2,000 enrollment and payment touchpoints.

    “We’re building infrastructure in places where even electricity is not guaranteed,” he said in a recent conversation. “Yet we’ve managed to connect rural communities to insurance frameworks using API-driven mobile money, biometric verification, and AI-driven claims validation. That’s not just tech; that’s nation-building.”

    Recognition from the World’s Best

    NucleusIS has not gone unnoticed. The company was awarded a $175,000 grant by the Swiss Re Foundation, the philanthropic arm of the world’s largest reinsurance giant. It was also selected from 957 startups across the continent to join the Timbuktoo Health Accelerator, backed by the United Nations Development Programme and the Government of Rwanda, placing it in the top 2.39 percent of health tech innovators in Africa. These milestones speak not only to the company’s distinguished reputation but also to the credibility and vision of its founder.

    “To be endorsed by institutions like Swiss Re and the UNDP—it validates not just our technology, but the intention behind it,” Kayode said. “We’re not solving surface problems. We’re digging deep into structural inequities in health access.”

    Designing for the Underserved

    At the heart of NucleusIS’s success is its laser focus on the underserved. Kayode’s team introduced an AI-powered health insurance credit system, allowing small business owners and informal workers to access healthcare without upfront payments. The platform integrates telecom APIs, mobile money, and cloud-based data reconciliation to deliver real-time insurance management and financing to people historically ignored by traditional insurers.

    “Health insurance shouldn’t be a privilege. It should be a default, especially for those who need it the most,” Kayode explained. “We designed every part of the system to work in chaotic environments—places where paper records still dominate, where connectivity is weak, and where trust in insurance is low.”

    Leading with Clarity and Scale

    Kayode directly oversees a cross-functional team of over 50 professionals, including product engineers, software architects, marketers, and regulatory experts. He led the $4 million capital raise that now funds the company’s growth across Nigeria and Ghana. More than just a CEO, Kayode is the intellectual engine of the company. According to one of the board members:

    “Whenever I need insight into the company’s operations or strategy, Kayode is the person I speak to. He didn’t just start the company; he built its DNA.”

    Impact That Transcends Borders

    With healthcare access becoming a defining issue not just in Africa but also in rural America, Kayode’s model is now gaining attention beyond the continent. As NucleusIS prepares for expansion into the United States, the tools and frameworks Kayode built are seen as directly applicable to underserved American populations. His systems have the potential to reduce fraud, accelerate reimbursements, and connect health providers with the uninsured, offering meaningful solutions to one of America’s quietest crises.

    “Rural America and rural Nigeria have more in common than we think,” he notes. “Both suffer from healthcare deserts. What we’ve built in Africa—technology that connects, finances, and empowers—can work anywhere.”

    Kayode Odeyinde stands at the intersection of finance, technology, and public good. In a continent hungry for functional infrastructure and inclusive innovation, he has not only answered the call, he has redefined what’s possible. With NucleusIS Africa, he has laid the rails for a continent-wide transformation in healthcare access. And as his journey continues beyond Africa, his model offers a glimpse into how bold leadership, deep technical insight, and social commitment can come together to change lives at scale.

  • Expert gives insight into how to Navigate Nigeria’s Economic Maze, build wealth in 2023

    Expert gives insight into how to Navigate Nigeria’s Economic Maze, build wealth in 2023

    As Nigeria grapples with soaring inflation rates and an increasingly volatile naira, the average citizen finds themselves caught in a financial whirlwind that seems to spinning faster each day. While many are paralyzed by economic uncertainty, seasoned financial professionals are viewing 2023 as a year of unprecedented opportunity for those bold enough to make strategic moves.

    Oluwafemi Orekoya, whose impressive portfolio at Standard Bank Group includes orchestrating transactions exceeding $2.1 billion across many countries. This financial architect has weathered multiple economic storms and emerged with battle-tested strategies that could be the difference between financial stagnation and prosperity for Nigerian households.

    The Foundation: Goal-Setting with Military Precision

    Orekoya’s first principle revolves around what he calls “financial architecture” – the art of constructing goals with the same precision used in building skyscrapers. “Most people treat their finances like a casual weekend project,” he observes. “But wealth building requires the discipline of an engineer.”

    His approach involves creating what he terms a “financial blueprint” – a comprehensive roadmap that includes automated savings mechanisms, expense tracking systems, and clearly defined short and long-term objectives. The difference between wishful thinking and actual wealth accumulation, according to Orekoya, lies in the measurability and specificity of these goals.

    Modern budgeting applications and digital tools serve as the scaffolding for this financial construction, but the real work happens in identifying and prioritizing what truly matters – whether that’s debt elimination, property acquisition, or entrepreneurial ventures.

    Debt: The Silent Wealth Destroyer

    When addressing Nigeria’s debt culture, Orekoya pulls no punches. He views high-interest debt as “financial cancer” that metastasizes faster than most people can build wealth. His strategy involves what he calls “debt triage” – immediately addressing the most toxic obligations while maintaining basic payments on less harmful debt.

    The expert advocates for exploring debt consolidation opportunities, particularly in Nigeria’s evolving financial landscape where new products are emerging to help consumers manage multiple obligations more effectively. The key insight here is that every naira spent on high-interest debt is a naira that could have been working toward wealth creation.

    Investment Diversification in Turbulent Times

    Orekoya’s investment philosophy centers on what he describes as “intelligent diversification” rather than random spreading of resources. His recommended portfolio includes traditional index funds and mutual funds for their cost-effectiveness and broad market exposure.

    However, he’s particularly bullish on Nigeria’s real estate sector, despite current market volatility. Additionally, he sees significant potential in fintech equities and carefully selected cryptocurrency positions, though he emphasizes the importance of professional guidance in navigating these more volatile asset classes.

    The cornerstone of his investment approach is risk assessment aligned with individual tolerance levels, ensuring that portfolio construction matches both financial capacity and emotional comfort zones.

    The Power of Financial Cushions

    Liquidity management, according to Orekoya, separates successful investors from those who merely survive market volatility. His dual-fund approach includes maintaining an emergency reserve covering 4-6 months of essential expenses, alongside what he calls an “opportunity fund” designed to capitalize on unexpected investment chances.

    These funds should be housed in high-yield savings vehicles that provide both security and reasonable returns. The strategy involves starting modestly and systematically building these reserves through consistent, automated contributions.

    Maximizing Government and Tax Benefits

    One area where Orekoya sees significant untapped potential is in leveraging available government incentives and tax optimization strategies. From first-time buyer programs to energy efficiency rebates and small business grants, he believes most Nigerians leave substantial money on the table by not exploring these opportunities.

    Professional tax consultation, while requiring upfront investment, often yields returns that far exceed the consultation fees. Local entrepreneurial support programs and homeownership incentives can provide substantial financial relief when properly utilized.

    The Retirement Planning Imperative

    Perhaps nowhere is Orekoya more emphatic than on retirement preparation. He champions the concept of “compound growth multiplication” – the exponential wealth building that occurs when time becomes your greatest ally.

    His philosophy centers on starting retirement contributions immediately, regardless of age, because the mathematical advantage of early investing cannot be replicated through higher contributions later in life. Both formal pension schemes and personal retirement accounts should be maximized according to individual capacity.

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    Technology as Financial Accelerator

    Orekoya views financial technology not as a luxury but as essential infrastructure for modern wealth building. From sophisticated budgeting applications to streamlined trading platforms, technology provides real-time insights and operational efficiency that were previously available only to institutional investors.

    The key is selecting technological tools that align with specific financial objectives and learning to leverage them for maximum benefit. Mobile-first financial management has democratized access to professional-grade financial tools.

    Continuous Learning: The Ultimate Investment

    The expert’s final pillar focuses on what he considers the highest-returning investment available: personal development. Professional certifications, skill acquisition workshops, and financial literacy programs represent investments that compound indefinitely throughout one’s career.

    Orekoya argues that in Nigeria’s rapidly evolving economy, continuous learning isn’t optional – it’s survival. The individuals who thrive will be those who adapt fastest to changing market conditions through enhanced skills and knowledge.

    A Strategic Vision for Financial Success

    The path to financial success in 2023, according to Orekoya, requires abandoning reactive financial management in favor of proactive wealth building strategies. This means embracing planning, eliminating destructive debt, building diversified investment portfolios, and leveraging every available advantage from government programs to technological tools.

    His closing perspective offers both challenge and encouragement: “Financial success isn’t about earning the most money – it’s about making your money work as hard as you do. The difference between financial stress and financial freedom often comes down to strategy, not salary.”

    Oluwafemi Orekoya brings more than a decade of financial expertise to his role as Associate at Standard Bank Group. His landmark achievements include structuring Nigeria’s pioneering Mini-LNG gas facility and executing Sub-Saharan Africa’s most significant real estate financing transaction. His innovative approaches to infrastructure development and financial engineering have established him as a leading voice in economic growth strategy development.a

  • Lagos designer Adele drives growth for local, international brands

    Lagos designer Adele drives growth for local, international brands

    A Nigerian product designer, Adefemi Adele has revealed how his drives has been helping businesses in Lagos and across United States to grow through strategic digital design.

    He said his work is turning small businesses into high-performing brands by improving how customers interact with their online platforms.

    Speaking with journalists, Adele noted that one of his works ‘The Hair Studio’, underwent complete e-commerce overhaul. 

    He stated that the salon moved from being a local favourite to gaining international recognition, saying within two years, the new digital setup helped the business pull in over 8.5 million US dollars in revenue.

    He said he worked with Lohn Lagos to create their chandler bar service.

    “I introduced an automated candle-making booking system through WooCommerce, creating a new income stream that went from zero to 38 million naira in less than a year.

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    “Another success story is Meeyas Jewels. I focused on mobile-first shopping and integrated real-time currency conversion. This reduced cart abandonment by 34 percent and increased the average order value, pushing the brand past typical luxury-market performance levels.

    “The goal of product design should go beyond visual appeal. When you shorten the path from curiosity to checkout, sales follow no matter where the business is located,” he added. 

    He however said with a growing track record in both Nigerian and U.S. markets, his work is proving that good design can directly impact business revenue, adding that his methods focus on reducing friction in online experiences and creating digital systems that support business growth.

  • Building a Borderless E-Commerce Brand: How Nigerian Founder Omoyibo Okemena Is Unlocking New Markets in Europe and Africa

    Building a Borderless E-Commerce Brand: How Nigerian Founder Omoyibo Okemena Is Unlocking New Markets in Europe and Africa

    Diving into the world of e-commerce, we have Mr Omoyibo Okemena, who is a seasoned e-commerce specialist and the founder of SmartMarketMall LTD. He has successfully built an e-commerce business that has generated millions of Naira in revenue in the past 12 months. We are fascinated by his pace as he is currently expanding his business to serve not just African countries but also the UK and EU.

    The 37-year-old entrepreneur and e-commerce specialist has garnered groundbreaking results and is willing to share his journey in this interview.  It’s thrilling to read success stories birthed by determination, consistency, and hunger to create impact and generate results.

    You may have wondered, has the journey been smooth so far? How did he become an e-commerce expert across continents? What lesson can you learn from his story? Read and find out.

    Can you give us a brief overview of your background before transitioning into e-commerce?

    Before transitioning into e-commerce, I was a full-time performance marketer and an online trainer. As I grew my digital marketing prowess, I founded an e-learning platform that successfully trained over 6000 small and medium business owners In Nigeria and Ghana.

    My team and I passionately taught businessmen and women both in Nigeria and Ghana how to leverage social media and digital platforms to kickstart their export businesses. We taught them the ABC of African foodstuff exportation to the US, UK, Canada, etc, how to find international buyers for their African products using platforms like Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Google, and B2B websites, as well as how they can go about registering their products with regulatory bodies such as NAFDAC.

    What year did you start selling online, and what motivated you to transition into building one of the most successful e-commerce brands across Africa?

    I began selling online as far back as 2018, eager to explore the online selling space. Unfortunately, my efforts proved abortive after 3 months of trial with no single sale. I was discouraged, so I quit.

    Soon after that unfortunate experience, I started working for a friend who was successfully running an e-commerce business selling fabrics. Working for him exposed me more to the world of e-commerce, I gained hands-on experience and was ready to try again.

    In 2023, I started my e-commerce business no longer as a newbie, but as a specialist, and together with my team, we developed a solid business model with tested strategies; we launched a product in April of that same year.

    Between April and December 2023, we aggressively pushed the products, and we expanded our sales to 3 other African countries. What started as a failure in 2018 evolved into a thriving business across Africa.

    Was there any particular challenge or experience you would love to share with us as regards your journey into the e-commerce industry?

    Yes!!! In fact, imagine someone advertising a product to you and they do not have a walk-in shop. I mean, buyers are still insecure even in 2025 because we live in a society where internet scams are rampant in Africa now compared to when I started, it is even worse. It was a big challenge building and gaining the trust of customers. To gain customers’ trust, we adopted the payment-on-delivery model, also known as the cash-on-delivery model. This model generated another challenge for my team and me because the logistics in Nigeria and Ghana were a problem. To solve that problem, we partnered with local suppliers and logistics partners in each country, which gave us both speed and trust on the ground.

    To be honest with you, the payment on-delivery model also gave us customers who sometimes abandoned their orders because they ordered the product before they committed a dime for it. You see, it was not all rosy.

    One of the recurring challenges we’ve encountered involves issues with delivery partners. For instance, we experienced a case in Botswana and even here in Nigeria where a delivery agent absconded with both our products and cash. Situations like these have affected trust and operations.

    Additionally, navigating customs processes in some West African countries can be unpredictable. There have been instances where our products were delayed without any clear explanation, causing disruptions to our supply chain and customer satisfaction.

    What was your big breakthrough like? If possible, give us the figures.

    One of our biggest breakthroughs happened in 2023 when we launched a new product in the car and gadget niche which we sold across Africa. In just 40 days, we generated over 10 million in revenue, selling 140 units of these products in Nigeria and Ghana. Eventually, we expanded that product into 6 other African countries. This launch wasn’t just a win; it validated our product research process, and that led the path for further wins.

    But here’s what most people miss..

    That “overnight” success? It came after five long years of trial, error, failure, learning, rebuilding, and showing up.

    2019 to 2023, do the math. That’s 1,825 days of not quitting.

    People want quick wins. But real growth isn’t rushed.

    If your first year seems like nothing good is happening, do not fret; that’s exactly what it’s supposed to feel like. The ones who win are the ones who stay in the game long enough to earn their breakthrough.

    The lesson?
    You don’t rise to the level of your dreams, you fall to the level of your systems, your habits, and your patience.

    Your breakthrough won’t come by force.
    It’ll come because you’ve earned the right to receive it.

    You have sold products across Africa. Are there specific strategies that helped you penetrate these markets remotely?

    Yes! One thing you must know about e-commerce as a business is that “you mustn’t run out of strategies,” so we have tailored strategies to penetrate remote markets.  To be specific, we heavily rely on performance marketing through Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok ads. We tailor our creatives, landing pages, and offers to resonate with each local market. Also, instead of shipping internationally, we partner with local importers and fulfillment teams in each country, allowing us to deliver within 1–3 days and collect payments in local currency through cash on delivery.

    We also ensure that our products are of high quality and are needed by customers at that time. Because it’s payment on delivery, customers check products before making payments, so if you deliver fake products, you will have a truckload of unwanted products. We sell quality, and that, too, is a working strategy, don’t you think? Yeah, absolutely a much-needed one.

    How many people have you trained so far to gain ground in the e-commerce and export business?

    Between our e-commerce mentorship programs and export training, we’ve trained over 6,000 people across Africa. Many of them have gone on to launch successful export businesses, building thriving e-commerce brands, as well as leveraging digital skills to sell their products online.

    Oh, trust me, this is one of the best parts of my journey. Making money and creating an impact on others.

    E-commerce is always changing. What strategies or habits have helped you and your team stay successful and continue growing, especially now that you’re expanding into European markets

    Constantly learning and adapting to new trends is one of our biggest strategies. Currently, I just joined a mentorship program focused on leveraging platforms like TikTok Shop, TikTok Shop Affiliate, and Amazon FBA to be able to reach billions of customers globally. This is especially needed now because we are currently expanding into the UK and European markets. Daringly, we have registered Smart Market Mall UK Limited, and we’re now partnering with fulfillment companies to reach European customers faster.

    Our key strategy has always been flexibility, understanding the market deeply through constant research, partnerships, and a fast execution process. We also invest resources in hiring A-players in our team to leave our customers with the best experience.

    Looking ahead, kindly share with us your big aspirations and goals as regards your business growth and how much you want to evolve in the next 5 years.

    Looking ahead, I have an ambitious vision for SmartMarketMall over the next five years.
    I see it evolving into a powerful pan-African and pan-European brand, actively serving diverse markets across both continents. Our mission is to become a key driver of digital trade and innovation in Africa and beyond.

    We’re currently working on launching our own line of branded products, while also expanding our eLearning academy. Beyond exportation and e-commerce, our curriculum will soon include cutting-edge courses on artificial intelligence, AI automation, and practical ways SMEs in Africa can leverage AI agents to grow faster and operate more efficiently.

    In addition, we’re building a tech-driven platform designed to help local suppliers scale beyond borders giving them the tools, visibility, and infrastructure they need to thrive in the global marketplace.

    It’s straight to the top from here, you know; we are looking forward to more growth and opportunities.

    Any final words that have kept you going? Share with us.

    Listen, “Results take time, but they always come to those who are determined to endure and not quit”

    I’ve learned that success isn’t only for the most talented, it’s also for the most consistent. There were times when things felt slow, uncertain, or even frustrating. But I kept showing up, kept testing, kept learning, and most importantly, I kept moving.

    The truth is that most people stop too early. But if you can stay consistent long enough to gain clarity, long enough to build momentum, and long enough to learn from every mistake the breakthrough eventually comes.

    So my advice? Bet on yourself. Stay in the game long enough to earn your breakthrough. And when it comes, use it to help others win too.

  • Stephen Akintayo transits GtextHoldings’ global expansion goals to me – GCEO Ahmad

    Stephen Akintayo transits GtextHoldings’ global expansion goals to me – GCEO Ahmad

    The Group Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Gtext Holdings, Mr Rana Ijaz Ahmad, has shared key insights into the company’s future direction after succeeding Dr Stephen Akintayo, leadership transition and a special 17th-anniversary mentorship initiative.

    Ahmad, who officially assumed the role in January 2024, took over from founder and former CEO Akintayo, serving as Group Chairman.

    He described the leadership transition as “seamless” and strategically aligned with the company’s global expansion goals.

    “Our focus has been aligning our fast-growing global operations with a long-term vision for multi-sector impact,” he said.

    Leading a multinational conglomerate comes with unique challenges, especially with operations spanning real estate, technology, agriculture, media, and investment services.

    “Coordinating across different subsidiaries means navigating regulations, time zones, and varied consumer expectations,” Ahmad stated.

    “But our tech-savvy team and 24/7 customer support have enabled us to remain innovative and resilient.”

    He emphasized the importance of cultural intelligence in Gtext’s global operations. “Whether it’s property development in Texas, brokerage in Dubai, or estates in Nigeria, we combine global expertise with local insight,” he said.

    Looking ahead, Ahmad laid out an ambitious plan that touches every arm of Gtext Holdings.

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    “The future is bold, multi-sector, and impact-driven,” he said. The real estate division is scaling smart, green housing for the diaspora and affordable markets.

    Gtext Farms is expanding to strengthen food security, empower rural communities, and support sustainable agriculture.

    Tech initiatives are targeting underserved populations with platforms that enhance financial literacy and e-commerce.

    “We’re building a 360-degree ecosystem of wealth creation, one that is global but culturally authentic,” he added.

    To mark its 17th anniversary, Gtext Holdings launched a unique initiative: a free 12-month one-on-one mentorship program for 17 entrepreneurs across Africa, the US, the UK, UAE, and Qatar, personally led by Dr Akintayo.

    “This is about growing people, not just profits,” Ahmad explained. “Participants will gain direct access to Dr. Akintayo’s knowledge, resources, and network to scale their businesses significantly.”

    The program includes weekly coaching sessions, access to over 40 books and 3,000 videos, and direct business development support.

    Applicants must have generated at least $100,000 in sales in the past year, be nominated by 10 individuals online, and submit a 3-minute pitch and supporting documents before October 30, 2025.

    Winners will also contribute to Dr. Akintayo’s impact projects.

    “This initiative reflects our mission to raise ethical entrepreneurs, build sustainable systems, and leave a lasting legacy,” Ahmad concluded.

    From visionary leadership to community-driven mentorship, Gtext Holdings is charting a future defined by purpose, growth, and global influence.

  • Misan Bolorunfe inducted Fellow of the Institute of Management Consultants Nigeria

    Misan Bolorunfe inducted Fellow of the Institute of Management Consultants Nigeria

    Misan Bolorunfe has been inducted as a Fellow (FIMC), the highest honor bestowed by the Institute, in recognition of her extraordinary contributions to the field of management consulting.

    The Institute of Management Consultants Nigeria serves as the independent professional body for management consultants in Nigeria, mandated to develop the profession, promote a rigorous Code of Ethics, and facilitate knowledge exchange nationwide. 

    The IMC Nigeria, which comprises individuals and consulting firms alike, is also the only institute of its kind on the continent, alongside that in South Africa, to be a member of the International Council of Management Consulting Institutes (ICMCI); home to similar organisations from 48 countries across the world. 

    This accreditation by the IMC grants consultants the authority to practice management consulting worldwide and is recognised by 50 member countries, including major markets such as the United States, the United Kingdom, Japan, Germany, India, China, and more.

    From conceptualising enterprise-wide sustainability roadmaps to executing multi-billion-dollar post-merger integrations, Bolorunfe has partnered with Fortune 500 companies to transform operations and embed resilient, sustainable practices at every level of the business. 

    As a Senior Consultant, she advised C-suite executives at leading global corporations, navigating complex operational turnarounds across consumer goods, energy, and industrial services. 

    This summer, Bolorunfe will join Bain & Company’s New York office as an Associate while pursuing her MBA at Columbia Business School, where she continues to deepen her expertise in corporate strategy and sustainable value creation.

    “I am honoured to join this exclusive community of Fellows,” said Bolorunfe. “This recognition by the IMC validates my commitment to excellence, ethical practice, and advancing sustainable, consumer-centred business solutions.”

    As a Fellow, she will serve as an ambassador for the profession, mentoring rising consultants, shaping best practices, and driving the IMC’s mission to foster ethical, high-impact consulting, both in Nigeria and globally.

  • How to drive sustainable growth in Nigeria’s pharmaceutical sector, by Industry CEOs 

    How to drive sustainable growth in Nigeria’s pharmaceutical sector, by Industry CEOs 

    Industry Chief Executive Officers (CEOs), development finance institutions, private equity and venture capital firms, and senior government officials have harped on the need for strategic investment opportunities and also collaborating more to drive sustainable growth in Nigeria’s pharmaceutical sector. 

    They spoke at the 2025 Nigeria Pharmaceutical Industry Growth and Investment Summit held at Marriot Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos. 

    The summit which was convened by PBR Life Sciences, afforded the attendees the opportunity to discuss on the future of healthcare in Nigeria. 

    The CEO, PBR Life Sciences, Ayodeji Alaran in his remarks outlined the critical challenges facing Nigeria’s pharmaceutical industry, stressing that the sector stands at a pivotal moment, raising concerns about the country’s continued reliance on imported medicines.  

    “Today, 70% of medicines consumed in the country are imported, leaving our healthcare system vulnerable to currency fluctuations, supply chain disruptions, and escalating costs,” he said.  

    Ayodeji highlighted that Nigeria’s rapidly growing population, projected to exceed 377 million by 2050, and the pharmaceutical market’s anticipated valuation of $1.01 billion by 2028 present a compelling case for bold investment in local production.

    While acknowledging that government initiatives like the National Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Plan offer a strong policy framework, he stressed that the private sector must take the lead in accelerating progress through innovation, strategic partnerships, and capital mobilisation.  

    The event featured several panelists and speakers, including: Pharm Ahmed Yakasai, Former PSN President & CEO, Pharmaplus Nigeria; Prof. Chimezie Anyakora, CEO, Bloom Public Health, Dr Abdu Mukhtar, National Coordinator Presidential Initiative for Unlocking value chain (PVAC) 

    Others are Dennis Aizobu, Managing Director, SFH Access; Omorinsola Ipaye, CEO, Efunpo Pharma Ltd; Adetunji Sekoni, Principal, CardinalStone Capital Advisers; Chishamiso Mawoyo, Senior Investment Officer, IFC; Dr. Olufemi Olaleye, Group Head, Health Finance, Sterling Bank Ltd; Jordy Kiange Beni, Investment Principal, Octerra Capital; Sammy Ogunjimi, CEO, Codix Group; Chimdindu Onwudiegwu, Associate Partner, Dalberg; and Olayemi Oladiran, COO, Alpha Orion Nigeria Ltd.  

    Strategic discussions around innovation in pharmaceutical manufacturing, regulatory modernisation, market expansion, and capital mobilisation to drive sustainable, sector-wide growth were key areas from the various panelists sessions.

    The National Coordinator of PVAC, Dr. Abdu Mukhtar in his welcome address commended PBR Life Sciences for convening this summit, adding that it is critical to the pharmaceutical and life sciences sector in Nigeria.

    Dr. Mukhtar noted that the federal government is implementing a very broad and far-reaching reform known as the Health Sector Investment Renewal Strategy to address issues around improving primary healthcare services, health insurance coverage, and also preparing the health sector for any possible pandemic. 

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    “The first is to increase the share of locally produced healthcare products, pharmaceuticals, vaccines, and health commodities. 

    “As you know, in Nigeria, as in many other African countries, we import almost 80 percent of the essential medicines that we use. We import almost 100 percent of the vaccines that are used in the country. 

    “We import almost 99 percent of medical devices, including test kits for various diseases in this country.

    “This is no longer attainable. We are a country of 230 million people, and Nigeria is the only country in the world that has at least 100 million people but does not produce a majority, 50 percent, of essential healthcare commodities, supplies, and medicines. So the key mandate for PVAC is actually to help address this problem.” 

    He disclosed that through the Executive Order signed by President Bola Tinubu to provide zero import duty and zero VAT for the importation of equipment and raw materials needed for local production in the health sector, manufacturers now have a conducive environment to produce pharmaceutical and life sciences products. 

    Dr. Mukhtar further threw his weight behind the recent establishment of Medipool, a purchasing organisation, by the Federal Executive Council (FEC), adding that it will be a game changer in the health sector, especially for manufacturers. 

    He called on investors to look at healthcare as a potential business opportunity. According to him, growth in the health sector will lead to an increase in the country’s GDP. 

    “In Nigeria, and like many African countries, the healthcare sector accounts for only 3 to 4% of the GDP. In many countries, like in the US, it’s about 17 to 18% of GDP. 

    “This means that there is a huge opportunity and potential for growth, even from a personal economic diversification perspective. If Nigeria can grow the health sector, especially on the private side, whether it’s pharmaceuticals, hospitals, or digital health, you know, all those opportunities can grow the GDP,” he said. 

    The Managing Director of Codix, Sammy Ogunjimi stressed that the pharmaceutical industry remains a very critical one, and it is a matter of national security. 

    “The pharmaceutical industry is an area that people talk about, but not enough has been done. One of the many issues facing the industry is lack of access to funds to help local manufacturers. There’s also need for technological transfer that will help local manufacturers. The solution to our problem can only come from us. We can’t continue to wait for foreign investors. We need people to invest in the industry, and also reduce the bottlenecks associated in getting licence”.

    He commended the Bola Tinubu-administration for its concerted efforts in addressing key issues in the pharmaceutical industry. 

    Also, Former PSN President, Pharm Yakasai advised pharmaceutical companies to scale up and collaborate noting that the federal government has assured that it was ready to back the industry. 

    He said: “We want to be a country that’s self sufficient. The issues on limited financing mechanism in the industry is what must be addressed. All pharmaceutical companies wants to access these funds, but they need to have structure. The government shouldn’t be importing, we want patronage from them.”

  • Italy-based Nigerian barber Ofuoyan features in global magazine

    Italy-based Nigerian barber Ofuoyan features in global magazine

    The wonderful and inspiring story of Jimmy Ofuoyan’s resilient rise to fame has caught the recognition of one of the world’s most popular style magazines, The Barber Today. 

    Being featured by The Barber Today, an independent magazine dedicated to showcasing the best barbers and barbershops worldwide, is a validation of Jimmy Ofuoyan’s thrilling rise as one of world’s renowned hairstylists, putting Nigeria in great spotlight as people of creative minds. 

    Jimmy Ofuoyan’s indomitable spirit pulled him through the most difficult circumstances any human could ever face in life. He fled the hardship at home as a young lad and his journey to find purpose in Italy led him through Libya where brutal human traffickers abducted and imprisoned him for 18 months. 

    His gifted fingers helped him turn adversity into opportunity in captivity, as his survival instinct kicked in, transforming prison into a barbing paradise with a comb and blade. To his captors and fellow inmates, he was a major asset until the dawn of his escape to Italy, through which he has now conquered the world. 

    After surmounting initial hurdles in Italy, Jimmy Ofuoyan’s craft quickly set him apart as the best, so much so they crowned him as the undisputable barber king in the Pescara province. He founded 360kuts and it quickly became a home for footballers and top celebrities. 

    Jimmy Ofuoyan has moved from the corner of a street in Nigeria to the runways of Europe’s most prestigious fashion shows, transforming models and celebrities, including most followed Tik Toker, Khaby Lame. The Nigerian has  carved out a remarkable place and niche for himself in the world of barbering, earning respect and reputation among international elite class. 

    Based in Italy but Jimmy Ofuoyan’s clippers have given him a passport to the rest of the world. Through sheer hard work and consistency, he has built 360kuts into an enviable brand reckoned with in Europe. His continuous presence in international fashion shows represents his successful push of creative boundaries and a confirmation of how far he has come. 

    Jimmy Ofuoyan’s growing influence extends far beyond the barber’s chair and transcends animating artists and those who dream like he did. 

    “Every haircut is an opportunity to transform someone — not just how they look, but how they feel. That transformation is what drives me every single day,” Jimmy Ofuoyan said.

  • Ewuzie bags business award at JPI youth leadership convention

    Ewuzie bags business award at JPI youth leadership convention

    Businessman Ebuka Ikechukwu Ewuzie has received the highly regarded Business Leadership Award from Jamie Pajoel International (JPI).

    The distinguished honour was presented during the 2025 edition of the JPI Youth Leadership Convention in Lagos.

    The global event, which attracted participants from across Africa, North America, Europe, and Asia, was attended by a distinguished array of dignitaries, business leaders and change-makers dedicated to fostering the next generation of leadership.

    The award was conferred by Jamie Pajoel, the Founder and President of JPI, in recognition of Ewuzie’s remarkable contributions to entrepreneurship, leadership development, and his unwavering commitment to youth empowerment through business innovation.

    Pajoel praised Ewuzie for his consistent dedication to advancing ethical business practices and promoting sustainable impact, particularly in the realms of digital platforms, real estate, and education.

    Ewuzie’s ventures, known for their ethical foundations and community-centered focus, have earned him a reputation as a transformational leader within Nigeria’s competitive business environment.

    His company, Bukasin Unique Estate, has played a vital role in promoting responsible and innovative growth.

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    Bukasin Unique Estate was a proud sponsor of the JPI Youth Leadership Convention, demonstrating its ongoing commitment to youth development and leadership empowerment.

    The convention itself was a hub of inspiration, featuring thought-provoking panel discussions, workshops, and networking opportunities. Attendees had the chance to engage directly with some of Africa’s most influential business minds.

    Ewuzie’s presence at the event served as a source of inspiration to many aspiring leaders, particularly youth eager to make their mark in the world of business and entrepreneurship.