In an era where authentic leadership, strategic foresight, and resilient execution are paramount, few exemplify excellence at the intersection of finance, energy, and governance like Ighojovbe Oghenekaro. Her journey is not only a testimony to bold ambition—it’s a beacon of what is possible when vision meets competence, and courage is paired with character.
Having navigated and shaped three of Nigeria’s most influential industries—pensions, oil & gas, and corporate finance—Oghenekaro’s legacy is one of strategic transformation. As CEO of Nigeria Agip Pension Company, she oversaw the responsible stewardship of hundreds of billions in pension assets, championing transparency, sustainability, and stakeholder confidence.
In her tenure as General Manager, Human Resources at Nigerian Agip Oil Company (NAOC), she didn’t just lead talent—she redefined its value by aligning human capital with strategic business outcomes. Today, she plays a catalytic role in driving business integration at Oando Plc, one of Africa’s most iconic energy brands.
But among her many firsts, one milestone stands out: She made history as the first Black person appointed a financial signatory at NAOC. In an industry long characterised by exclusion at the highest levels, this is not just symbolic—it is a seismic shift. It reflects not only her rare competence, but the unignorable value of African women’s leadership in shaping billion-dollar decisions.
Her leadership style is built on servant leadership, which she defines as empowering others to succeed. “By empowering teams and prioritising collective success, leaders can build trust and drive meaningful change,” she says. It’s a lesson for every leader navigating today’s complexity—the future belongs to those who lift others.
On the subject of gender equity, Oghenekaro is unwavering: “Organisations must move beyond tokenism. They must set measurable goals, create mentorship pipelines, ensure inclusive policies, and actively involve men as allies.” Her approach reframes inclusion as a strategic lever, not a social favour.
As the global economy evolves, she stresses the urgency for continuous learning. “Leaders must invest in innovation, adaptability, and talent development if they want to future-proof their organisations.”
A proud alumna of TEXEM, UK, she credits the institution for equipping her with “practical tools, strategic clarity, and a powerful global network.” TEXEM, she says, has been instrumental in shaping her into a leader who delivers impact beyond borders.
To young women navigating doubt and ambition, she offers this charge:
“Believe boldly in your worth. Take the leap. Keep evolving. And lead—even when no one looks like you at the table. Especially then.”
Ighojovbe Oghenekaro is not just an alumna—she is a movement. A visionary. A pioneer. A reminder that Africa’s future is female—and the time is now.
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