Ibukun Awosika (born 24 September 1962) is a Nigerian business leader, author, and motivational speaker who made history as the first female chairman of First Bank of Nigeria, one of Africa's largest banks. A successful entrepreneur, she founded The Chair Centre Group, a furniture manufacturing company, and has become one of Nigeria's most influential business leaders and advocates for women in leadership. Her achievements have inspired countless Nigerian women to pursue careers in business and finance.


HISTORIC BANK CHAIRMANSHIP:
In 2015, Awosika was appointed Chairman of First Bank of Nigeria, becoming the first woman to hold this position in the bank's 125-year history. This appointment was particularly significant in Nigeria's banking sector, where women had been historically underrepresented in top leadership positions. Her leadership during this period helped guide the bank through significant challenges while maintaining stability and growth.

ENTREPRENEURIAL SUCCESS:
Before her banking career, Awosika founded The Chair Centre Group in 1989, starting as a small furniture manufacturing business. Under her leadership, the company grew into a major furniture and interior design firm, employing hundreds of people and serving corporate and individual clients across Nigeria. Her entrepreneurial success demonstrated that Nigerian women could build successful manufacturing businesses.

BUSINESS LEADERSHIP:
Awosika has served on the boards of numerous major Nigerian companies including Cadbury Nigeria, Digital Bridge Institute, and the Nigerian Sovereign Investment Authority. Her business acumen and leadership skills have been recognized across industries, making her one of Nigeria's most respected corporate leaders. She has been instrumental in shaping corporate governance standards in Nigeria.

WOMEN'S EMPOWERMENT ADVOCACY:
Throughout her career, Awosika has been a vocal advocate for women in business and leadership. She founded the Christian Missionary Fund, which supports women's education and empowerment. She regularly speaks at conferences and events, inspiring women to pursue leadership roles and break gender barriers. Her life story serves as an inspiration to countless Nigerian women.

AUTHORSHIP AND THOUGHT LEADERSHIP:
Awosika is a prolific author, having written several books on business, leadership, and personal development. Her writings share insights from her entrepreneurial journey and provide guidance for aspiring business leaders. She is also a sought-after motivational speaker, addressing audiences across Africa and internationally.

EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND:
Awosika holds a Bachelor's degree in Chemistry from the University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University) and an MBA from the Lagos Business School. She has also completed executive education programs at international business schools including IESE Business School in Spain. Her educational foundation combined with practical experience has made her a well-rounded business leader.

PHILANTHROPY AND SOCIAL IMPACT:
Beyond business, Awosika is committed to social impact. She has been involved in numerous initiatives supporting education, women's empowerment, and youth development. Her philanthropic work includes supporting scholarships, mentoring programs, and initiatives that create opportunities for underprivileged Nigerians. She believes in using business success to create positive social change.

LEGACY AND INSPIRATION:
Ibukun Awosika's legacy extends beyond her individual achievements. As the first female chairman of First Bank, she opened doors for other women in banking and finance. Her entrepreneurial success demonstrates that Nigerian women can excel in manufacturing and business. Her advocacy and mentorship have inspired countless women to pursue leadership roles, contributing to greater gender diversity in Nigerian business and finance.

FAST FACTS:
- Born 24 September 1962 in Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria.
- Education: University of Ife (Chemistry), Lagos Business School (MBA), IESE Business School (Executive Education).
- Key Achievement: First female chairman of First Bank of Nigeria (2015-2021).
- Business: Founder of The Chair Centre Group, furniture manufacturing company.
- Board Positions: Cadbury Nigeria, Digital Bridge Institute, Nigerian Sovereign Investment Authority.
- Awards: Multiple business and leadership awards, recognized as one of Africa's most powerful women.
- Notable: Broke gender barriers in Nigerian banking and manufacturing.
- Impact: Inspired countless Nigerian women to pursue careers in business and leadership.