Ibukun Awosika biography, net worth, age, husband, education, family background, business career, companies, awards, and achievements as former Chairman of First Bank of Nigeria.
Ibukun Awosika is one of Nigeria’s most accomplished entrepreneurs, corporate executives, and leadership voices. She is globally recognized for becoming the first female Chairman of First Bank of Nigeria, a historic milestone in the Nigerian banking sector.
Beyond her corporate achievements, Ibukun Awosika is a respected author, motivational speaker, mentor, and advocate for youth empowerment and female leadership. Her story is widely studied as a model of resilience, vision, and strategic growth in Africa’s business landscape.
From studying Chemistry at university to building a multi-million-dollar furniture manufacturing company and leading one of Nigeria’s largest financial institutions, her journey reflects discipline, faith, and long-term thinking.
This comprehensive biography explores Ibukun Awosika’s early life, education, career milestones, net worth, husband, family, awards, leadership philosophy, and enduring influence.
See also: Ambassador Ismail Abba Yusuf Biography: Net Worth, Age, Wife, Education, Family, Career & Early Life
Highlights of Ibukun Awosika Biography
Full Name: Ibukunoluwa Abiodun Awosika
Date of Birth: December 24, 1962
Age: 63 years old (as of 2026)
Nationality: Nigerian
State of Origin: Oyo State
Profession: Entrepreneur, Corporate Executive, Author, Speaker
Known For: First female Chairman of First Bank of Nigeria
Husband: Pastor Abiodun Awosika
Estimated Net Worth: $8 million – $15 million
Early Life
Ibukun Awosika was born on December 24, 1962, in Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria. She was raised in a disciplined Yoruba household that placed strong emphasis on education, integrity, and faith.
Growing up in southwestern Nigeria during a period of economic and political change, she witnessed firsthand the importance of resilience and adaptability. Her parents instilled in her the belief that excellence was not optional—it was expected.
As a child, Ibukun displayed confidence and natural leadership qualities. She was curious, outspoken, and ambitious. Teachers and family members recognized her potential early, often describing her as focused and determined.
Her upbringing shaped her worldview. She learned that success required hard work and that character mattered just as much as competence. These early lessons became the foundation of her future leadership philosophy.
Education
Ibukun Awosika attended the prestigious University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University), where she earned a Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry.
Although her academic background was in science, her passion gradually shifted toward entrepreneurship and leadership. She realized that her true calling was in building businesses and creating impact.
Determined to strengthen her management skills, she pursued executive education at top institutions, including:
- Lagos Business School
- IESE Business School
- Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania
These programs equipped her with advanced knowledge in corporate governance, strategic leadership, financial management, and global business practices.
Her commitment to continuous learning reflects one of her core beliefs: leadership requires constant growth.
Career
Early Professional Experience
After graduating, Ibukun briefly worked in advertising. However, she soon realized she wanted to build something of her own rather than climb a corporate ladder.
This realization led her to entrepreneurship.
Founding The Chair Centre Group
In 1989, Ibukun Awosika founded Quebees Limited, a furniture manufacturing company in Nigeria. At the time, manufacturing was male-dominated, and access to capital was limited.
Despite these challenges, she persisted.
Quebees Limited later evolved into The Chair Centre Group, one of Nigeria’s leading furniture and interior design companies. The company became known for quality craftsmanship and corporate office solutions.
Her success in manufacturing proved that Nigerian entrepreneurs could compete at high standards. She built the company from scratch, navigating economic instability, funding constraints, and market skepticism.
Her entrepreneurial journey is frequently cited as a case study in resilience.
Appointment as Chairman of First Bank of Nigeria
In 2015, Ibukun Awosika made history when she was appointed Chairman of First Bank of Nigeria.
Founded in 1894, First Bank is one of Africa’s oldest financial institutions. Her appointment marked the first time in over a century that a woman led the bank’s board.
During her tenure, she focused on:
- Strengthening corporate governance
- Promoting innovation and digital transformation
- Enhancing risk management
- Expanding SME support
- Encouraging financial inclusion
She completed her tenure in 2021, leaving behind a legacy of strategic reform and modernization.
Her leadership was widely praised both locally and internationally.
Author and Thought Leader
Ibukun Awosika authored the book:
The Girl Entrepreneurs
The book inspires young women to pursue entrepreneurship despite societal challenges.
She is also a frequent keynote speaker at global conferences. Her speeches emphasize:
- Faith-based leadership
- Integrity in business
- Purpose-driven success
- Empowerment of women
- Long-term thinking
Her thought leadership extends beyond Nigeria, making her one of Africa’s most respected business voices.
Net Worth
Ibukun Awosika’s estimated net worth ranges between $8 million and $15 million.
Her wealth sources include:
- Ownership stake in The Chair Centre Group
- Corporate board positions
- Investment portfolios
- Speaking engagements
- Book sales
- Advisory roles
Unlike celebrities whose wealth fluctuates rapidly, her fortune is built on structured business growth and long-term investments.
Personal Life
Ibukun Awosika is married to Pastor Abiodun Awosika. Their marriage is built on strong Christian values, mutual respect, and shared purpose.
She often speaks openly about balancing business leadership with family responsibilities. Together, they have children and maintain a private but stable family life.
Faith plays a significant role in her life decisions. She credits her spiritual foundation as a major source of strength throughout her career.
Family Background
Ibukun Awosika comes from a Yoruba family deeply rooted in discipline and moral values. While she keeps extended family details private, she consistently acknowledges her parents’ influence in shaping her confidence and integrity.
Her upbringing emphasized humility, accountability, and service—principles she continues to uphold.
Awards and Recognition
Ibukun Awosika has received numerous awards and honors, including recognition by:
- Forbes Africa
- Corporate governance institutions
- Women leadership organizations
- Entrepreneurship platforms
She has also been listed among Africa’s most powerful women in business.
Leadership Philosophy
Ibukun Awosika believes leadership is about responsibility, not position. She often states that influence should be used to create opportunity for others.
Her leadership philosophy combines:
- Integrity
- Strategic thinking
- Faith
- Inclusiveness
- Courage
She advocates for ethical leadership and sustainable growth rather than short-term gains.
Lessons from Ibukun Awosika’s Journey
- Education is foundational but continuous learning is essential.
- Gender should never define ambition.
- Entrepreneurship requires courage and resilience.
- Integrity builds long-term credibility.
- Leadership is about service and impact.
Conclusion
Ibukun Awosika’s biography is a story of vision, resilience, and excellence. From humble beginnings in Ibadan to leading one of Nigeria’s most historic financial institutions, her journey demonstrates that determination combined with integrity can break barriers.
She remains one of Nigeria’s most respected female executives and continues to inspire future leaders across Africa.
Her legacy is not merely in the titles she held but in the doors she opened for others.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Ibukun Awosika’s net worth?
Her estimated net worth ranges between $8 million and $15 million.
How old is Ibukun Awosika?
She was born on December 24, 1962, and is 63 years old as of 2026.
Who is Ibukun Awosika’s husband?
She is married to Pastor Abiodun Awosika.
What did Ibukun Awosika study?
She studied Chemistry at the University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University).
Why is Ibukun Awosika famous?
She is famous for being the first female Chairman of First Bank of Nigeria and for her success as an entrepreneur.
