THEME :
BusinessDay proudly presents the 2023 SME 100 Awards, a beacon of hope and excellence in Nigeria's business landscape.
The SME 100 Conference and Awards is an initiative organized by BusinessDay Media Limited, designed to recognize and celebrate the significant impact and achievements of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Nigeria. Since its inception in 2018, the event has aimed to highlight the resilience and accomplishments of SMEs, acknowledging their contributions to the country's economy.
MEET OUR SPEAKERS
Ayo-Bankole
Ayo-Bankole is a Strategy & Transformation professional with fourteen years’ experience that covers leadership roles as the Head of Strategy Groups in the capital markets, insurance, and oil & gas industries. As a Strategy Consultant, he led many strategy projects across sub-Saharan Africa, working for KPMG, PwC, Phillips Consulting, and as a technology marketing consultant at C2G Consulting. He has provided strategy advice to over 130 companies, governments, and development institutions, including the AfDB, World Bank, ExxonMobil, Chevron, Bristow Group, Actis, Axa, and many other large and SME organizations with transactions value of over $120million. His consulting experience cuts across strategy & execution, transformation & corporate turnaround, process improvement, due diligence, merger & acquisition, etc. Ayo has a certificate in disruptive strategy from Harvard Business school, a master’s degree in political science from the University of Lagos, and a Bachelor’s degree from the premier University of Ibadan. He is a thought leader in strategy, economy, MSMEs, governance, and responsible citizenship. His thoughts are regularly featured on global and local media including the BBC, Al-Jazeera, DW Germany, South African Business Radio, Spice FM Kenya, Channels, Arise tv, etc. He is a recipient and nominee of numerous Awards including the Ten
Outstanding Young Persons of Nigeria award by the Junior Chambers International. He mentors over 60 youths
in 9 African countries, USA, Canada, and the United Kingdom.
Dr. Samson Olatunde
Dr. Samson Olatunde is a Digital Entrepreneur, Seasoned Digital Marketing, Media and Growth Strategist, Global Brand Builder, Consultant, Life Coach, Philanthropist and a Prolific Author of over 30 books; with over 15 years+ experience in Africa’s technology and knowledge ecosystem with an outstanding track record in helping small, medium and large-scale enterprises gain momentum through information technology (IT) powered marketing; and tenaciously advocating the entrepreneurship drive among Nigerians and Africans, especially, the young people.
Dr. Olatunde have been involved in the strategy and execution of digital marketing campaigns for brands across different industries including E-commerce, Transportation, Fintech, Real Estate, Media, Education and many more.
Dr. Samson Olatunde is the Founder of Digital CEO Tribe; Africa’s Community of Digital Savvy Professionals; the vision to help businesses in Sub-Saharan Africa and beyond drive for enhanced business performance and profitability with leverage on the 21st Century’s Digital Tools.
He was recently awarded Honorary Doctorate in Humanitarism at Global International Alliance University and President Lifetime Achievements Recipients 2023 from the office of the president of United States.
Satira Osemudiamen
Principal Consultant, Satira Media & PR
Satira Osemudiamen is a Public Relations Professional, Co host of Point Blank PR Podcast(S1), and the Principal Consultant of Satira Media and Public Relations Limited. In addition to these, Satira is an adept storyteller who uses her storytelling skills to highlight the important messages of her clients, ensuring that she matches each communication medium to its style. She also uses her pen name, SatiraYANZ to share her experiences and insights on the beauty of strategic communications.
As the principal consultant of Satira Media and PR Ltd, Satira Osemudiamen leads her team on strategic communications and shoulders the responsibility of building and maintaining business relationships while identifying prospects and business opportunities to improve the agency's growth and development. Her exceptional project execution skill is highlighted in the successful execution of top brand projects like The Chorus Leader Live, Parimatch Nigeria x Asake Partnership Launch, Rebrand of Multimix Academy and Amel International Services Limited(aka Amel Susan), The Relaunch of Betking’s New brand identity in Nigeria, amongst others.
Ezeadichie Onyeka Michael
Ezeadichie Onyeka Michael is the Founder of Haelsoft, a Professional Services Company in Nigeria that provides Information and Technology Services for small and big-size companies in Nigeria (Africa). He is an Entrepreneur and Venture Capitalist with Expertise in Web Technology and Digital Marketing. He has developed & Implemented Digital Marketing Strategies (Campaigns) for top brands across sectors in Finance (Fintech), Telecommunication, Ecommerce, Education, and Government who operate in the Nigerian Market. His professional experience includes key roles at Google Business Group(Nigeria), Google Women on the Web (Nigeria), Kusnap eCommerce, Edubridge Consultant, and Wild Fusion, Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ), where he has trained over 3500 Entrepreneurs on using variousWeb Technology (Digital Skills) to succeed online. Customer centricity, User Experience, and Conversion optimization are three-pronged frameworks he
applies around the often-frenetic world of Web Analytics, Search Engine Optimization to ensure clients
stay competitive. He believes investing in talent is the key to long-term success for brands across Nigeria
(Africa).
Esiri
Esiri is a Partner with PwC Nigeria and previously worked in PwC New York. She heads the People and Organisation Unit in Tax responsible for compensation design and structuring, immigration and personal compliance services to companies in various industries. She also leads the Private Wealth Client Services team which provides specialised services to high-net-worth families and entrepreneurs.
Esiri is also a specialist in sustainability, cross-border restructuring, tax planning for mergers and acquisitions including deferred taxes for group audits and corporate tax compliance. She has worked on high ticket tax structuring assignments for multinational investors with interest in sub-Saharan Africa. She has also advised severally on optimal tax structures using tax efficient holding companies and regional hubs including tax efficient finance structures across Africa. Esiri’s tax structuring and advisory experience spans multiple sectors including oil and gas, power and utilities, manufacturing and FMCG. This has earned her a leadership role in PwC Africa as the Family Business Leader.
Esiri holds a BSc (Hons) in Microbiology from the University of Ibadan. She is also a Fellow of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA), Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN) and the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN). She has professional certifications in the Private Equity Master Class from London Business School, Sustainability Strategies and Circular Economy from the Cambridge Judge Business School and International Tax from the New York University. Esiri serves as a Non-Executive director on the board of several companies. She mentors, writes articles and speaks regularly at conferences. She has won several awards for her leadership roles and contribution to the Nigerian economy.
Peter Nwofia
Partner, Tax & Regulatory Services, Mazars.
He is a Tax Partner in our Tax & Regulatory services unit, He has over 9 years of experience in the area of taxation and broad exposure to a variety of tax areas, including serving both large and small business clients in the financial service industry, energy-related industries, manufacturing and distribution industries, as well as real estate development and investment. He has a BSc. In Accounting, University of Nigeria. He is a Member, Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) and also a Member, Chartered Institute of Taxation of Nigeria (CITN).
Linda Onyesoh
Linda Onyesoh is a seasoned beauty entrepreneur and accomplished business developer with a unique career journey that began on Wall Street. In 1995, she embarked on a mission to gather data and insights into Nigerian women's perspectives on the Beijing Platform for Action.Her professional journey includes impactful roles at renowned institutions such as Morgan Stanley and Bank of America/Merrill Lynch, where she made significant contributions to fixed-income indexing.
Today, as the CEO of Merit Multiservices Inc., overseeing entities like MakeupmavenNYNG, Milani Cosmetics Nigeria, and Beauty by Aubrey, Linda harnesses her expertise to empower women and champion their multifaceted talents.
Omoruyi Osagie Edoigiawerie
Omoruyi Osagie Edoigiawerie, aka "Uyilaw," is a prominent Nigerian Startup Attorney and Notary Public. His expertise spans tech, innovation, AI, data protection, and corporate law. As Founder of Edoigiawerie & Company LP, a law firm tailored for startups, he blends startup experience with deep tech insight. Omoruyi advises on contracts, real estate, tax, and negotiates complex tech agreements for local and global organizations. With qualifications from Harvard, Yale, and more, he's a recognized leader in Nigerian Entrepreneurship and Startup law, contributing to landmark legislation and supporting thriving companies.
Joshua Chibueze
Joshua Chibueze, the visionary behind Nigeria's leading digital finance platforms, Piggyvest and PocketApp, is dedicated to reshaping financial behaviors for a new generation. In 2018, Piggytech secured $1.1 million in funding, propelling expansion and impact. These platforms now boast over 6 million users, offering vital tools for savings, investments, and financial management. In 2023, Piggyvest proudly announced over N1.1 trillion paid back to customers, underscoring its pivotal role in Nigerian financial inclusivity. Joshua earned a spot in Forbes' 30 Under 30 list in 2019 and became an Endeavor Entrepreneur in 2022. He holds degrees from Covenant University and Stanford School of Business, boasting over a decade of expertise in Branding, Product Marketing, Digital Transformation, and Customer Experience Design, spanning multinationals, SMEs, and startups.
Ekundayo
Ekundayo, a distinguished alumnus of Harvard and Lagos Business School, heads OMP 34. Renowned as Nigeria's top B2B sales expert, he's a global digital marketing consultant, driving revenue through inbound campaigns. As CEO of BusinessPlus LLC, a leading Digital Marketing/Transformation Agency, he provides extensive business solutions, leveraging digital media for results. Ekundayo's portfolio spans sectors like Finance, Government, Real Estate, and Telecoms, advising major entities nationally and internationally. He's also a respected Facilitator and Adjunct Lecturer, with memberships in prestigious institutes, highlighting his expertise. Ekundayo invests in promising startups and holds certifications in HP's Mea-i program and Project Management (PMP).
Dr. Juliet Ehimuan
Dr. Juliet Ehimuan is an accomplished leader in the tech industry, with over 25 years of experience. During her 12-year tenure at Google, where she served as the Country Director of Google Nigeria and later as Director for West Africa, she made a significant impact by driving innovation and expansion. Beyond her corporate role, Juliet is the founder of Beyond Limits Africa, an organisation focused on accelerating growth within the African tech space by driving digital transformation in business, empowering the next generation of African entrepreneurs, and leadership capacity building. Dr Juliet is widely recognized, with features in media outlets like BBC, Forbes, CNN, LBS, The Guardian, and BusinessDay.
Her influence extends through her advocacy for public policies promoting digital accessibility, strategic partnerships, and her role as a thought leader. Her book, "30 Days of Excellence," inspires personal growth and community impact. Her active board memberships reflect her commitment to driving positive change, solidifying her as a revered and influential figure, both in the tech industry and society at large.
Oluwatoyin Inumidun Bakare.Executive Director of SAS Textiles Ltd
Oluwatoyin Inumidun Bakare.Executive Director of SAS Textiles Ltd. Oluwatoyin Inumidun Bakare is a highly accomplished entrepreneur and Certified Fellow Chartered Accountant. Passionate about women's development and business success, she excels in conflict resolution. With a strong academic background and prestigious business school alumni status, Bakare's expertise in business management is evident. As COO and Executive Director of SAS Textiles Ltd, she drives its growth and oversees day-to-day operations. Bakare's influence extends to board memberships in esteemed companies and foundations. She also contributes significantly to social causes, exemplified by her involvement with Genesis House and WIMBIZ. Additionally, she holds leadership positions in professional communities, earning accolades like the 2022 Fate Alumni Model Entrepreneur award. Bakare's multifaceted roles as a wife, mother, public speaker, and pastor add depth to her inspiring journey.
Damola Richard Salvador
Damola Richard Salvador is a forward thinker and CEO of Digisplash, an award-winning advertising agency specializing in integrated marketing. With over 13 years of experience, he excels in creative and strategic marketing for brands like Custodian Investment Group and MCOM Nigeria. Damola holds degrees in Business & IT and Digital Marketing. He is associated with APCON, FORBES BLK, and Chartered Management Consultants. A skilled speaker, he has appeared at various industry events. His impressive track record includes managing campaigns for global brands like Coca-Cola and Diageo, earning him accolades such as Cannes Lions Awards and Nigerian Marketing Award.
Uzochukwu Obienu Partner, KPMG
Uzo is a seasoned professional with extensive expertise in taxation, holding an MBA and memberships in ICAN and CITN. Since joining the Firm in 2007, he has excelled, rising to Associate Director in 2019. With 15 years of experience, he's a trusted advisor, specializing in tax services for local and multinational oil and gas companies. Uzo also contributes to Nigerian tax policy reforms and conducts training sessions for KPMG and ICAN. Outside work, he enjoys cars, family time, and volunteers at Jesus Kitchen Charities.
Nneka Okekearu. Director at the EDC of the Pan-Atlantic University.
Nneka Okekearu is a leading expert in enterprise development, entrepreneurship, gender inclusion, and leadership. With over 20 years’ experience, she has collaborated with institutions such as Standard Chartered Bank, Cherie Blair Foundation for Women, and the World Bank. Nneka is dedicated to creating innovative, sustainable solutions for entrepreneurs, promoting inclusive business development, and generating employment opportunities. She is a World Bank master trainer, a member of the national steering committee for licensing BDSPs in Nigeria, and chairs the Learning and Development Africa network. Committed to mentoring, Nneka serves on the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria’s mentoring committee and mentors with Michigan State University. She is also a member of the Society for Corporate Governance, with interests in indigenous business sustainability, alternative financing, gender equality, business integrity, diversity, equity, and inclusion, as well as sustainability.
Afolabi Emmanuel
Afolabi Emmanuel is a skilled community lead with experience in marketing, devising and tailoring innovative solutions to meet ever-changing business requirements in regards to the market.
Advanced skills with leading-edge programming tools complemented by proven ability to assimilate and rapidly utilize emerging technologies, while participating in strategic systems planning and analyzing, a broad range of corporate initiatives.
Afolabi Emmanuel is a result-driven, articulated presenter.
A valuable team player with strong mentoring skills who consistently works to the highest professional standards and thrives when working as part of a team to deliver projects that yield multiple business ROI.
Ireayomide Oladunjoye. Managing Director & CEO of Endeavor in Nigeria
Ireayomide Oladunjoye is the Managing Director & CEO of Endeavor in Nigeria. In her role, she leverages her years of private and public sector working experience to support entrepreneurs in various life cycle stages with interventions and resources that enable them to scale their businesses and create societal behavioral change.
She previously led the Startups Unit (Lagos Innovates) at Lagos State Employment Trust Fund (LSETF), where she was responsible for developing and implementing a slate of government-led programs to enable the tech ecosystem in the State.
Ms. Oladunjoye is a trained Engineer from the City University London and completed the Women’s leadership program at Oxford University’s Said Business School.
Ayokunnumi Abraham
Ayokunnumi Abraham is a professional banker with over 15 years of experience spanning
relationship, risk, and product management. He is a trained mathematician and a certified
SME expert primarily focused on creating opportunities for SMEs to achieve their ambitions
for growth and profitability.
Currently the Head Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SME) Products & Segments at
Union Bank, Ayokunnumi has led several initiatives that have accelerated the growth of the
Bank’s SME customer base and experience.
Under his leadership, Union Bank was recognized by Global Finance - a leading financial
international publication as the 'Best Bank for SMEs in Nigeria'. The Bank has also sustained
top rankings in KPMG’s Banking Industry Customer Experience Survey for SMEs.
Adewumi Oni. Ag. Director for Finance and Corporate Services LSETF.
Adewumi Oni is the Ag. Director for Finance and Corporate Services.
Prior to assuming the role, he was Head Risk Management, Monitoring & Internal Control at LSETF. He is a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) as well as a Certified Micro Finance practitioner of The Chartered Institute of Bankers Nigeria (CIBN).
He has over twenty years of work experience, cutting across such sectors as Financial services, ICT, Training & Consulting, and Hospitality.
He has attended various capacity development programmes at both local and international levels including trainings at the Lagos Business School, Boulder Institute of Microfinance, Italy, Galilee Institute of Management, Israel (GIMI) and Paris School of Business, France.
Omolara Adewumi. Acting Executive Secretary
Omolara is a seasoned professional with 15+ years of experience, excelling in roles such as Director of Programmes at Lagos State Employment Trust Fund. Her impactful work spans unemployment, entrepreneurship, and sustainable development. Collaborating with agencies like GIZ and UNDP, she showcases her ability to drive impact-led initiatives. Rooted in commercial and legal expertise from Templars, Omolara's dedication to SDGs, evident in her role as Senior Special Assistant in Ogun State, highlights her pivotal role in reshaping sustainable development landscapes.
Dr. Yetty Ogunnubi, CEO of YD Limited and The YD Company.
Dr. Yetty Ogunnubi, CEO of YD Limited and The YD Company, is a renowned Business Development, PR & Marketing Expert with 19+ years in PR and brand management. A fashion entrepreneur, she holds a Ph.D. in Brand Strategy & Communication. Born into a family of artists, Yetty's creativity extends to illustrations used in various projects. Passionate about mentoring, she's involved in initiatives like the Academy for Women Entrepreneurs. Her agency, The YD Company, received the 2023 Business Excellence Award for Most Unique PR & Communications Agency in Lagos.
Yvonne Chioma Ofodile
Yvonne Chioma Ofodile boasts a decade-long career in oil and gas and social enterprise, excelling in human resources, business development, and marketing. Holding a prestigious MBA from Lagos Business School and various memberships and fellowships, she serves as the Managing Director at Zetile Oil and Gas Ltd and CEO of Zetile Stores Limited. Yvonne's visionary leadership extends to her nonprofit, 360 Woman Africa, impacting over 12,000 women entrepreneurs. Recognized for her contributions, she received the Exemplary Leadership award in 2023. Yvonne's dynamic presence and commitment to continuous learning highlight her as a global leader in entrepreneurship, women's empowerment, and leadership strategies.
Jeremiah Mayowa
Jeremiah Mayowa, a visionary entrepreneur in his twenties with a BSc in Mathematics from the University of Lagos, is the driving force behind Jeroid. Starting with Jeroid Reporters in 2013, he ventured into cryptocurrency trading in 2017, introducing Jeroid retail crypto trading. Mayowa's keen market understanding led to the 2021 launch of the Jeroid crypto trading app, followed by Jeroid Properties in 2022. In 2023, the Jeroid V2 app was released, reflecting Mayowa's commitment to innovation and democratizing cryptocurrency opportunities, positioning Jeroid as a leader in digital finance.
Yvonne Chioma Ofodile
Yvonne Chioma Ofodile boasts a decade-long career in oil and gas and social enterprise, excelling in human resources, business development, and marketing. Holding a prestigious MBA from Lagos Business School and various memberships and fellowships, she serves as the Managing Director at Zetile Oil and Gas Ltd and CEO of Zetile Stores Limited. Yvonne's visionary leadership extends to her nonprofit, 360 Woman Africa, impacting over 12,000 women entrepreneurs. Recognized for her contributions, she received the Exemplary Leadership award in 2023. Yvonne's dynamic presence and commitment to continuous learning highlight her as a global leader in entrepreneurship, women's empowerment, and leadership strategies.
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