Collaboration is essential for Africa to unlock its potential, bridge the gap between challenges and opportunities, and empower women at the forefront of development.
This was emphasized at the United Bank for Africa (UBA) Conversations 2023, held on May 23rd, 2023, in Lagos, Nigeria, under the theme “Innovating the Continent for Growth.”
Chairperson of UBA Tony Elumelu, in his brief remarks, appreciated the women who had contributed to building the Bank and highlighted perseverance as a vital trait for business success.
Earlier in his opening remarks, the Group Managing Director of the bank Oliver Alawuba, noted that the event’s theme aligns with the goals of the United Nations and the African Union, focusing on innovation, technology, and creating opportunities across the continent.
Alawuba stated, “In UBA, we will continue to develop products that address the challenges faced by African women in their businesses and workplaces.”
He proudly mentioned that UBA boasts the highest number of female directors, who make up over 50 per cent of the board, including three executive directors.
The conversation featured a panel of accomplished women from diverse sectors who are breaking barriers and challenging stereotypes in Africa.
The first female Executive Director of UBA Abiola Bawuah, shared her journey and how her appointment opened doors for more women to be appointed as Chief Executive Officers.
She highlighted the importance of innovation, stating, “What has happened in UBA for me is a complete innovation of ideas, changing the status quo, telling the girl child ‘you can make it.'”
Similarly, a Business and Tech Executive Foluso Gbadamosi, emphasized that innovation serves as a catalyst for positive change and transformation in Africa.
She expressed the need for intentional efforts to bring about positive change, particularly for the continent’s significant youth population.
President and Group CEO of Transcorp Plc Owen Omogiafo, emphasized that innovation is essential for survival and presents opportunities for growth.
Despite the challenges faced during the 2020 pandemic, she shared how the Transcorp hospitality business experienced significant double-digit growth.
Omogiafo stressed the importance of adapting to the digital world and continuously modifying products, services, and contact points to engage customers.
On her part, multi-talented Foodprenuer and Guinness World Record holder for marathon cooking Hilda Bassey, emphasized the need for businesses to find innovative ways to meet customers’ needs.
She highlighted the undervaluation of the food sector in Nigeria and emphasized the importance of understanding its potential.
“I feel like food is also oil in Nigeria, it’s just that we haven’t realised it and we just don’t understand it yet,” she said.
Likewise, Creative Director of a fashion brand Bake Kuku-Lawson, shared her experience of starting her business during the Covid-19 pandemic.
She highlighted the necessity of innovation to thrive and survive in the ever-changing business landscape.
“We had to get a website and we had to start selling online. You just have to keep moving with life. So, you’re always, always innovating,” Kuku-Lawson said.
The event which was the 5th edition of the annual UBA Conversations, served as a platform to recognize and empower women in driving innovation and shaping the future of Africa.
The panelists’ diverse experiences and perspectives underscored the importance of collaboration, perseverance, and adaptability to foster growth and development on the continent.