Nigerian businesswoman Folorunsho Alakija has urged Nigerian women to remain steadfast and not be discouraged by rejection, stressing that persistence, courage, and faith are critical to achieving success.

Ms Alakija, the founder of Famfa Oil and the richest woman in Africa, also said women should not be discouraged by gender when pursuing their visions.

She said this at an exclusive leadership conversation held at the EKO Hotel, Lagos, as part of activities to mark the 2026 International Women’s Day, hosted by Optiva Capital Partners.

International Women’s Day, which was held on March 8, had the theme “Give to Gain.” 

She described her life journey, from a modest upbringing to becoming one of Nigeria’s most prominent business figures, as one shaped by deliberate actions and unwavering trust in God.

She said, “Achievements are outcomes of years of discipline, intentional effort and perseverance. I grew up in a large polygamous family and was sent to the United Kingdom at a young age, where exposure to different cultures helped shape my worldview.

“I had aspired to study law, but my father insisted on a secretarial course, a decision I later realised was pivotal to my career. I thought I wanted to be a lawyer, but God had a different plan. Looking back, I see how every step was ordered.”

Ms Alakija recounted how her career journey spanned secretarial work, banking, fashion design, and eventually the oil and gas sector.

“I began my career as a secretary and later worked in banking for over a decade, rising through the ranks in spite of lacking formal qualifications at the time, before venturing into fashion design and eventually the oil and gas sector.

“My breakthrough came after nearly three years of pursuing an oil prospecting licence amid repeated setbacks.

“I sowed seeds of tenacity, courage, patience, and passion. I refused to take ‘no’ for an answer,” she said.

She outlined her “ingredients for success” as seeking God first, using time and talent wisely, staying focused, maintaining credibility, and embracing continuous learning.

Ms Alakija further emphasised the importance of giving back, noting that wealth should be used to uplift others rather than create barriers.

“What do you do when you get to the top? You use your influence to lift others,” she said, adding that faith and persistence remain key to lasting impact.

The executive director of business development at Optiva Capital Partners, Amaka Okeke, called for stronger collaboration among women.

She described the forum as a platform for honest conversations beyond “polished success stories,” noting that the theme, “Give to Gain,” reflected women’s daily sacrifices.

“We are building a community where women can connect, share experiences, and grow together,” she said. 

(NAN)