Nigerian Women Leading in Business and Entrepreneurship

Nigeria is home to many inspiring women who have defied expectations and built successful businesses. Their journeys are filled with challenges, from societal bias to financial hurdles, but their resilience has set them apart.

These women have created wealth, generated employment, and inspired countless others to dream big. Here are six Nigerian women who are making remarkable strides in business and entrepreneurship.

Folorunso Alakija

Folorunso Alakija is one of Africa’s most successful businesswomen, with interests spanning fashion, oil, and real estate. She started her career in the fashion industry, founding Supreme Stitches, a luxury brand. 

However, her biggest breakthrough came when she ventured into oil, securing a license that led to the establishment of Famfa Oil, one of Nigeria’s most profitable oil companies.

Alakija’s journey was far from easy, as she faced numerous hurdles in a male-dominated industry. Yet, her determination and business acumen have made her a global success story.

Mo Abudu

Mo Abudu is a powerhouse in African media. As the founder of EbonyLife Media, she has transformed storytelling in Nollywood and beyond. Before launching her media empire, she had a successful career in human resources but later pursued her passion for storytelling.

Under her leadership, EbonyLife has produced critically acclaimed films and TV series, putting African stories on the global stage. Abudu’s influence has reshaped the entertainment industry and given African narratives the recognition they deserve.

Adenike Ogunlesi

Adenike Ogunlesi is the founder of Ruff ‘n’ Tumble, one of Nigeria’s most successful children’s clothing brands. What started as a small home business has grown into a nationwide brand known for quality and style.

Ogunlesi’s journey began when she struggled to find high-quality clothes for her own children. Instead of complaining, she took action, designing her own clothes and selling them. Today, Ruff ‘n’ Tumble is a household name, proving that passion and persistence can turn a simple idea into a thriving business.

Ibukun Awosika

Ibukun Awosika made history as the first female Chairperson of First Bank of Nigeria. Before that, she was a trailblazer in manufacturing, founding The Chair Centre Group, a leading furniture company in Nigeria.

Awosika is also a mentor, speaker, and author, known for encouraging women to be bold and take leadership roles in business. She remains a symbol of excellence in the corporate world and continues to inspire women to break boundaries.

Tara Fela-Durotoye

Tara Fela-Durotoye is a pioneer in Nigeria’s beauty industry. She founded House of Tara, a cosmetics brand that has empowered thousands of women through makeup artistry.

Starting from humble beginnings—selling beauty products from her home—Tara grew House of Tara into a multi-million naira business. Her brand is more than just makeup; it is a platform for empowering young women by offering training and job opportunities.

Bella Disu

Bella Disu is the Executive Vice Chairman of Globacom, one of Nigeria’s largest telecommunications companies. She is also the CEO of Cobblestone Properties and Estates, a luxury real estate firm.

Beyond business, Disu is passionate about education and the arts. She serves on the board of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), advocating for quality education in Africa. Her leadership in both business and philanthropy makes her one of the most influential women in Nigeria today.