Ibukun Awosika, born on December 24, 1962, in Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria, is a renowned businesswoman, author, and motivational speaker.

She is the third child in a family of seven. Her passion for education and leadership was evident from a young age.

Ibukun attended St. Paul’s African Church Primary School, Lagos, and later proceeded to Methodist Girls’ High School, Yaba, Lagos for her secondary education. She then attended Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, where she earned a degree in Chemistry despite initially considering studying Architecture.

Ibukun awosika biography: Key Facts and Achievements

• Full Name: Ibukunoluwa Abiodun Awosika
• Date of Birth: December 24, 1962
• Place of Birth: Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria

Education

• Primary School: St. Paul’s African Church Primary School, Lagos
• Secondary School: Methodist Girls’ High School, Yaba, Lagos
• Tertiary Education: Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife (B.Sc. in Chemistry)

Career Highlights

• Started as an auditor at Akintola Williams & Co. (now Deloitte)
• Founded Quebees Limited in 1989, which evolved into The Chair Centre Group
• Became the first female Chairman of First Bank of Nigeria in 2015

Books Authored

• The “Girl” Entrepreneurs
• Business His Way
• My Lessons from Entrepreneurship

Philanthropy and Advocacy

• Founder of Ibukun Awosika Leadership Academy (IALA)
• Advocate for youth empowerment, ethical leadership, and gender equality

Board Memberships and Affiliations

• Board member of Cadbury Nigeria Plc
• Member of International Women’s Entrepreneurial Challenge (IWEC)
• Trustee at Pan-Atlantic University

Awards and Recognition

• Entrepreneur of the Year (Women in Management, Business, and Public Service)
• Leadership Award for Business Excellence
• Outstanding Woman of the Year Award

Personal Life

• Spouse: Abiodun Awosika
• Children: Three
• Religion: Christian

Legacy and Impact

• Trailblazer in Nigeria’s corporate sector and advocate for ethical business practices
• A role model for women and entrepreneurs across Africa and beyond
• Inspirational speaker and mentor to young professionals

Career Beginnings

Although trained as a chemist, Ibukun’s interests shifted to entrepreneurship and management. She started her professional journey at Akintola Williams & Co. (now Deloitte) as an auditor. This experience exposed her to the intricacies of business operations.

Her entrepreneurial spirit led her to establish Quebees Limited, a furniture manufacturing company, in 1989. The company later evolved into The Chair Centre Group, a conglomerate comprising Sokoa Chair Centre Limited, Furniture Manufacturers Mart, and TCC Security Systems.

Rise to Prominence

Ibukun Awosika’s business acumen and leadership skills gained widespread recognition, positioning her as a trailblazer in Nigeria’s business landscape. She broke gender barriers when she became the first female Chairman of First Bank of Nigeria in 2015, a milestone in the nation’s corporate history.

Her role at First Bank saw her championing corporate governance, innovation, and strategic growth. Ibukun’s influence extended beyond the boardroom as she became a mentor to countless aspiring entrepreneurs and business leaders.

Books and Publications

Ibukun Awosika is a prolific author. Her books focus on entrepreneurship, leadership, and personal development. Notable works include:

• The “Girl” Entrepreneurs: This book explores the challenges and triumphs of female entrepreneurs.
• Business His Way: A guide on conducting business with strong ethical and moral principles.
• My Lessons from Entrepreneurship: A compilation of her experiences and valuable lessons learned in the business world.

Philanthropy and Advocacy

Ibukun Awosika is passionate about youth empowerment and women’s development. She founded the Ibukun Awosika Leadership Academy (IALA) to equip young leaders with essential skills for success. Additionally, she is actively involved in initiatives that support gender equality and education.

Her advocacy for ethical leadership and social responsibility has made her a respected voice in national and international forums. She often speaks at conferences and events, inspiring audiences with her story and insights.

Board Memberships and Affiliations

Ibukun Awosika serves on the boards of various prestigious organizations, including:

• Cadbury Nigeria Plc
• International Women’s Entrepreneurial Challenge (IWEC)
• Pan-Atlantic University

Her involvement in these organizations underscores her commitment to driving growth and innovation across multiple sectors.

Awards and Recognition

Ibukun Awosika’s contributions have earned her numerous accolades and awards, such as:

• Entrepreneur of the Year (Women in Management, Business, and Public Service)
• Leadership Award for Business Excellence
• Outstanding Woman of the Year Award

Her achievements continue to inspire women and entrepreneurs across the globe.

Personal Life

Ibukun Awosika is married to Abiodun Awosika, and they are blessed with three children. She is deeply committed to her Christian faith, which guides her personal and professional life.

Despite her demanding schedule, she finds time to mentor young professionals, engage in community service, and spend quality time with her family.

Legacy and Impact

Ibukun Awosika’s journey from a chemistry graduate to a celebrated entrepreneur and leader serves as a testament to her determination, resilience, and visionary leadership. Her story continues to motivate countless individuals to pursue their dreams, break barriers, and lead with integrity.

For more about her

FAQs

1. What is Ibukun Awosika famous for?

Ibukun Awosika is famous for being the first female Chairman of First Bank of Nigeria and a successful entrepreneur, author, and advocate for ethical leadership.

2. What companies does Ibukun Awosika own?

She is the founder of The Chair Centre Group, which includes Sokoa Chair Centre Limited, Furniture Manufacturers Mart, and TCC Security Systems.

3. What are Ibukun Awosika’s notable books?

Her notable books include The “Girl” Entrepreneurs, Business His Way, and My Lessons from Entrepreneurship.

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