10 Women Leading Nigeria’s Telecom Industry   

Nigeria’s telecom industry, one of the largest in Africa, plays a pivotal role in the nation’s economic growth. With over 220 million active subscribers, the sector has expanded rapidly, bringing advancements in mobile technology, internet connectivity, and innovative services. 

Driving this transformation are exceptional women, leading the charge in shaping the future of telecommunications in Nigeria. These women are breaking barriers and making an impact in a field traditionally dominated by men. Here are 10 of these trailblazing women.

Bella Disu

Bella Disu is the Executive Vice Chairman of Globacom, one of Nigeria’s largest telecom providers. She is also the Chairman of Abumet Nigeria and CEO of Cobblestone Properties and Estates Limited. Beyond her role in telecommunications, Disu is a philanthropist and the founder of the Bella Disu Foundation, focuses on empowering underserved communities. Her influence in business and leadership has earned her prestigious recognition, including France’s Chevalier dans l’Ordre des Arts et des Lettres award.

Adia Sowho

Adia Sowho is a former Chief Marketing Officer at MTN Nigeria, where she was the first woman to hold this role. Her career spans several industries, including engineering and product development. Sowho has worked as a radio frequency engineer and later transitioned into management consulting at Deloitte. She has held senior leadership roles at Migo and 9mobile, contributing to major growth initiatives and digital business solutions. With a passion for technology and financial inclusion, Sowho has driven success across various sectors.

Bukola Ajayi

Bukola Ajayi is the General Manager of Architecture and Engineering at MTN Nigeria, where she oversees the design and implementation of new technology solutions. With over 20 years of experience in telecommunications, Ajayi has been instrumental in developing MTN’s network infrastructure and enhancing the company’s operations. Her technical expertise and leadership have helped MTN remain a leading player in Nigeria’s telecom industry.

Kemi Ariyo

Kemi Ariyo is the Director of Information Technology at Airtel Nigeria, with over 16 years of experience in the telecom and IT sectors. Starting her career as an application support engineer, Ariyo quickly rose to leadership positions, working with IBM before fully joining Airtel in 2017. Known for delivering technical solutions and driving business profitability, she has spearheaded various complex projects such as the CSDP platform. In addition to her work at Airtel, Ariyo runs Brightstar Integral Technology, offering innovative consulting services.

Ogo Ofomata

As Director of Airtel Business at Airtel Nigeria, Ogo Ofomata brings nearly two decades of experience to the telecommunications industry. She has been instrumental in digital transformation and improving customer experiences within the sector. Ofomata is also a strong advocate for gender equality and actively works to close the gender gap in the tech space. Her leadership in driving data services for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) has had a significant impact on Nigeria’s ICT landscape.

Funke Opeke

Funke Opeke is the founder and CEO of MainOne, a leading network solutions provider in West Africa. Her company, which specializes in delivering internet and connectivity services across the region, was acquired by Equinix for $320 million in 2022. Despite this acquisition, Opeke continues to serve as the managing director of West Africa operations. With a background in electrical engineering, she has over two decades of experience, having worked at Verizon in the U.S. and MTN Nigeria. Opeke’s leadership has been vital in improving Nigeria’s digital infrastructure and expanding internet access.

Yetunde Ojo

Yetunde Ojo is the General Manager of IT Operations at MTN Nigeria, where she oversees the company’s IT infrastructure and operations. Ojo has over two decades of experience in the technology sector, having previously worked at Barclays and the Nigerian Stock Exchange. She has played a crucial role in ensuring MTN’s systems run smoothly and efficiently, contributing to the company’s ongoing success in the highly competitive telecom market.

Oyinye Ikenna-Emeka

Oyinye Ikenna-Emeka is the Chief Broadband Officer at MTN Nigeria and has over 23 years of experience in telecommunications. She has held various roles at MTN, including General Manager of Fixed Broadband and Enterprise Marketing. Ikenna-Emeka is passionate about using technology to build new markets and create innovative business solutions. A sought-after international speaker, she also mentors young professionals and delivers commercial and leadership insights.

Veronica Onoja-Babayemi

Veronica Onoja-Babayemi is the Managing Director of Telkos MS, a telecom service enabler. Prior to this, she held senior leadership positions at Airtel Nigeria, where she excelled in various roles, including driving the profitability of Airtel Money. Onoja-Babayemi is known for her strategic leadership and ability to deliver results, particularly in growing Airtel’s regional operations. She brings a wealth of experience and a strong focus on customer satisfaction to her current role.

Ugonwa Nwoye

Ugonwa Nwoye serves as the acting Chief Marketing Officer and Chief Customer Relations Officer at MTN Nigeria. With a career spanning over 20 years at MTN, she has been at the forefront of creating customer-focused solutions. Nwoye played a key role in launching MTN’s MyMTNApp and the MTN Marketplace, enhancing customer engagement through digital platforms. She also mentors small business owners, helping them navigate changing customer behaviors and improving customer service models.