Ibukun Awosika: An Inspiration to Nigerian Entrepreneurs

Mrs Ibukun Awosika exemplifies the Nigerian entrepreneurial spirit, represents the true face of Nigerian business and highlights the opportunities that Nigeria presents to entrepreneurs. When Awosika took up work for a furniture company as a young, fresh-faced 25 year this was her first job after completing her studies. She was not satisfied with the way the company operated but developed a passion for furniture and decided to create her own business. She quickly set about doing things the right way, applied her high personal value set to business and Sokoa was born. With next to no start-up capital but by putting customers first, Awosika has built one of West Africa’s largest furniture businesses. She is a well-known personality and became an inspiration to many aspiring Nigerian entrepreneurs after appearing as one of the investors in Nigeria’s version of the popular business reality show Dragon’s Den. She also hosts the popular television programme Business – His Way, which helps promote high ethical standards and is the author of a book under the same name. Awosika covers a wide range of business issues and relates them to the Christian teachings to show how through conformity with her religion, lasting business success result.

“With next to no start-up capital but by putting customers first, Awosika has built one of West Africa’s largest furniture businesses.”

Entrepreneurs across the globe would do well to regard Mrs Ibukun Awosika as a role model. Her approach to continual personal development, further education and doing the best job possible is exemplary. And her financial prudence and high moral standards are at the very core of her success. The fact that she so willingly and effectively shares her knowledge and experience makes her a model for many other successful business leaders too. In appointing Awosika to the board overseeing Nigeria’s new Sovereign Wealth fund, President Goodluck Jonathan’s government has made a proper and wise choice.