In Nigeria, a new generation of visionary leaders is driving innovation, purpose, and transformation, one bold idea at a time. From real estate to technology, sustainable agriculture to legal advocacy, these entrepreneurs are not only solving problems but also rewriting the narrative of what’s possible across sectors.
This spotlight features ten standout individuals whose work is creating ripple effects in business, governance, community development, and beyond. Whether through data-driven commerce, impact-led startups, or industry-defining strategy, their journeys reflect a deep commitment to excellence, inclusion, and lasting value.
Meet the changemakers shaping Nigeria’s future.
1. Dr. Auwal Bashir
Auwal Bashir is a highly driven entrepreneur and strategic business leader, serving as the Founder and Chairman of Ecogrove Realty. With a passion for innovation and a solutions-oriented mindset, he is committed to delivering client-focused real estate services that combine operational excellence with long-term value.
Known for his resilience, tenacity, and ability to adapt to complex challenges, Auwal brings a self-starter attitude to every endeavor. His strength lies in understanding client needs and effectively mobilizing resources to exceed expectations, making him a trusted name in property development and investment.
2. Olive Nwafor
Olive Nwafor is a visionary entrepreneur and product strategy leader, widely respected for her structured approach to innovation and deep commitment to purposeful execution. As the co-founder of a fast-growing SaaS company, Salvin, she champions the development of intelligent tools that simplify operations and drive measurable impact across multiple industries.
In recognition of her outstanding contributions to business innovation, Olive was named the winner of the Technology Venture Innovation Award at the Business and Enterprise Awards, a testament to her impact-driven leadership and consistent delivery of scalable solutions. Her ability to align vision with action has made her a trusted voice in product innovation, respected for the lasting value and operational insight she delivers.
3. Peter Ekunkoya
Peter Ekunkoya is a visionary business strategist and growth leader, serving as the Co-founder and Chief Growth Officer at Vendy Inc, a company redefining payment experiences by building alternative interfaces for both offline and online transactions across Africa.
With a deep-rooted passion for economic inclusion, Peter previously founded Boost Nigeria, a platform created to empower small businesses to thrive in Africa’s fast-evolving digital economy. His career spans finance, sales, and commercial strategy, which he has leveraged to support fintech startups and social impact ventures through a dedicated strategy consultancy.
4. Atata Charles
Atata Charles is a multidisciplinary architect and the Co-founder of Pondis Santini Projects, a firm dedicated to delivering innovative, sustainable, and intuitive architectural solutions across Africa. With a wealth of hands-on experience in both architectural design and building construction, he bridges creative vision with practical execution.
At Pondis Santini Projects, Atata leads with a deep passion for great architecture, crafting spaces that are not only functional and aesthetically compelling but also environmentally responsible. Through collaboration, creativity, and technical excellence, he continues to shape structures that inspire, endure, and elevate the built environment.
5. Fredrick Ereku
Fredrick Ereku is a seasoned entrepreneur and business strategist, serving as the Founder of Xcel Authentics. With a strong background in business development, digital marketing, and e-commerce, he is focused on designing innovative growth strategies that drive revenue and elevate customer experiences.
Driven by a passion for sustainable growth and operational excellence, he continues to position Xcel Authentics as a dynamic force in the digital commerce space, delivering solutions that are both customer-centric and results-oriented.
6. Mbuotidem John
Mbuotidem John is a sustainability-focused entrepreneur and Co-founder of Mayen Seafood, a company dedicated to transforming the seafood industry through innovation, accessibility, and impact. With a mission to make nutritious and sustainable seafood a staple in every home, she is helping to reshape food systems in alignment with global development goals.
Through SeaUp and other initiatives, Mbuotidem is driving solutions that directly address hunger (SDG 2: Zero Hunger) while promoting economic growth and job creation within the seafood and agricultural value chains. Her work blends innovation with purpose, delivering practical strategies that enhance food security and empower communities.
7. Alenoghena Ekhasomi
Alenoghena Ekhasomi is a purpose-driven development advocate and the Founder of Stronger United Community Development Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the lives of vulnerable families in rural and hard-to-reach communities through education, empowerment, and entrepreneurship.
Her role spans organizing community programs, developing proposals for sustainable funding, and coordinating impactful fundraising campaigns. Guided by empathy and action, she remains committed to building stronger, more resilient communities by addressing inequality and fostering inclusive development from the ground up.
8. Nky Ofeimun
Nky Ofeimun is a skilled media and entertainment lawyer with a strong focus on deal structuring, legal advisory, and rights advocacy for creatives. As the Founder of The Cast’s Closet, she champions the intersection of legal protection and creative expression, empowering talent with the knowledge and support needed to navigate the entertainment industry with confidence.
Her expertise includes negotiating complex deals, drafting and reviewing contracts, and offering tailored legal consultations for film, television, and co-productions. With a deep understanding of the legal nuances in media and entertainment, she continues to serve as a trusted advisor to artists, producers, and storytellers across Africa’s growing creative economy.
9. Joy Ilabija
Joy Ilabija is a health-conscious entrepreneur and the Founder of Purgeorganics, a brand committed to creating safer, cleaner, and more sustainable alternatives for everyday living. With a passion for wellness and environmental responsibility, she is building a platform that promotes healthier choices through organic, non-toxic products.
Her work centers on empowering individuals to make informed lifestyle decisions by offering solutions that prioritize both personal health and ecological well-being. Driven by innovation and purpose, she remains focused on expanding access to healthier alternatives while fostering a culture of conscious living.
10. Michael Isaac
Michael Isaac is a strategic communications expert and co-founder of Faya Influence Group, a public relations, marketing, and communications agency dedicated to empowering African startups and government institutions with impactful storytelling and growth-focused strategies.
With a hands-on role in agency operations, business development, and client strategy, Michael has led high-impact campaigns that enhance public perception, attract investor interest, and strengthen stakeholder engagement. His expertise spans media relations, brand development, and digital marketing, crafted specifically for early-stage ventures and public sector organizations.
