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Lagos Tactical Workshop With Mr. Seleem Adegunwa Event Details: “Practical Strategies for Competing with a Global Brand – The Extraordinary Transformation of Bigi” How do you grow a proudly Nigerian brand that competes with the likes of Coca-Cola and Red Bull? What does it take to build visibility, win market share, and earn consumer trust in a global arena? If you are not a Stanford Seed Member, visit this link to register for this event. At this exclusive Tactical Workshop , Mr. Seleem Adegunwa , Managing Director of Rite Foods Limited and the visionary behind Bigi CSD and Energy Drinks , shares the behind-the-scenes strategies that transformed Bigi from a local challenger to… Show More REGISTER July 24, 2025 at 10:00 AM Marriott Hotel, Ikeja Panel Mr. Seleem Adegunwa MD/CEO Rite Foods Limited Guest Speaker Mr. Seleem Adegunwa is a seasoned business executive with over 29 years extensive experience across different industries, including the Food and Beverage industry. As the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Rite Foods Limited, he has been at the forefront of… Show More REGISTER

IWD2025 Day 2: From Vision to Action | Mastering the Basics of Business Planning Event Details: We are thrilled to invite you to the second event in this exciting series! Join us for an insightful Webinar featuring two exceptional speakers: Taofik Odukoya , Founder of Vanguard Pharmacy, will deliver a session on Basics of Business Planning , equipping you with practical tools to structure and grow your business. Funto Boroffice , Founder/CEO of Chanja Datti Ltd, will share her expertise on Identifying Opportunities and Understanding the Entrepreneurial Mindset , teaching you how to spot opportunities and think like a successful entrepreneur. 📅 Date: Thursday, March 13th, 2025 ⏰ Time: 12pm 📍 Where: Zoom 💡 Why Attend? Learn actionable strategies for turning your vision into… Show More REGISTER March 13, 2025 at 12:00 PM GMT+1 Zoom Panel Taofik Odukoya Founder/CEO Vanguard Pharmacy Speaker Taofik Odukoya is the visionary founder of Vanguard Pharmacy, one of Nigeria’s leading retail pharmacy chains. With over 10 years of experience in business management and healthcare, Taofik has built a brand known for its innovation and customer-centric approach. His… Show More Funto Boroffice Founder/CEO Chanja Datti Ltd Speaker Ms. Funto Boroffice is the founder/CEO of award winning Chanja Datti Ltd, a waste collection & recycling social enterprise dedicated to transforming the waste in her environment to value and creating jobs and positioned to solve the growing plastic waste… Show More REGISTER

Men's Wellness Hangout Event Details: In celebration of International Men’s Day and the remarkable men in our Network, we invite you to a special hangout—at a gym! This is not your typical event venue, but it’s the perfect setting for us to unwind, bond, and prioritize our well-being together. Join fellow members of the Network for an energizing and relaxed time where you’ll: Connect and share experiences with other business leaders Gain valuable health tips from seasoned health professionals Take part in guided light exercises and practical fitness routines designed for men at every stage of life, to help you stay healthy and fit as… Show More REGISTER December 6, 2025 at 11:00 AM GMT+1 CrossFit Gym, Victoria Island, Lagos Panel REGISTER

Company Visit: Micronutrients Laboratories Event Details: Join Dr. Acholonu for an exclusive, members-only company visit to Micronutrients Laboratories Ltd (formerly Bio Organics Nutrient System Ltd), a pioneer in the fight against malnutrition in Nigeria. This unique event is open strictly to Seed Transformation Network members, offering you a rare opportunity to go behind the scenes at the creators of Cognito® Instant Micronutrient Powder—an innovative product that has positively impacted the lives of over 350,000 children across the country. During the visit, you will: Tour the state-of-the-art production facility and witness firsthand the rigorous processes that ensure Cognito® MNP meets the highest food safety standards, including NAFDAC… Show More REGISTER June 11, 2025 at 11:00 AM Omole Phase 1 Panel REGISTER

Lagos Tactical Workshop With Mr. Seleem Adegunwa: Non-Members Event Details: Are you looking to scale your business, reposition your brand, or break into a market dominated by global players? Join us for an exclusive Tactical Workshop titled: “Practical Strategies for Competing with a Global Brand – The Extraordinary Transformation of Bigi” Led by Mr. Seleem Adegunwa , Managing Director of Rite Foods Limited and the driving force behind Bigi CSD and Energy Drinks. If you are a Stanford Seed Member, visit this link to register for the event. This session offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at how a proudly Nigerian brand grew to compete with the likes of Coca-Cola and Red Bull. Show More REGISTER July 24, 2025 at 11:00 AM Marriott Hotel, Ikeja Panel Mr. Seleem Adegunwa MD/CEO Rite Foods Limited Guest Speaker Mr. Seleem Adegunwa is a seasoned business executive with over 29 years extensive experience across different industries, including the Food and Beverage industry. As the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Rite Foods Limited, he has been at the forefront of… Show More REGISTER

Company Visit to Salpha Energy Event Details: The forthcoming Company Visit Program offers members of the Stanford Seed Transformation Network, Nigeria Chapter, a unique opportunity to connect, learn, and engage with fellow entrepreneurs by exploring the operations of Salpha Energy. This visit is scheduled for March 27, 2025 , with a delegation of 10 members from the Network. Salpha Energy, founded by Sandra Chukwudozie , is a leading Nigerian renewable energy company dedicated to combating energy poverty through innovative solar solutions. Since its establishment in 2017, Salpha Energy has provided clean and affordable solar energy products to underserved communities and businesses across Africa. The company specializes in designing and… Show More REGISTER March 27, 2025, 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM Salpha Energy Panel Sandra Chukwudozie Founder/CEO Salpha Energy Host Sandra Chukwudozie is the Founder and CEO of Salpha Energy, a leading Nigerian renewable energy company dedicated to providing innovative solar solutions to underserved communities across Africa. With a strong background in international management, economics, and industrial relations, Sandra has… Show More REGISTER

Lagos Tactical Workshop Event Details: “Practical Strategies for Competing with a Global Brand – The Extraordinary Transformation of Bigi” How do you grow a proudly Nigerian brand that competes with the likes of Coca-Cola and Red Bull? What does it take to build visibility, win market share, and earn consumer trust in a global arena? At this exclusive Tactical Workshop , Mr. Seleem Adegunwa , Managing Director of Rite Foods Limited and the visionary behind Bigi CSD and Energy Drinks , shares the behind-the-scenes strategies that transformed Bigi from a local challenger to a globally recognized brand. This is not a keynote. It’s a deep dive into the real… Show More REGISTER June 25, 2025 at 12:00 PM Lagos Panel REGISTER

Seed Nigeria Webinar: Navigating Nigeria’s New Tax Landscape Event Details: As Nigeria enters a new era of fiscal reform, understanding the implications of recent tax changes has become crucial for every business leader. Join us for an insightful webinar on “Navigating Nigeria’s New Tax Landscape” , a timely session designed to help organizations adapt, stay compliant, and identify opportunities within the evolving tax environment. Led by seasoned experts from KPMG in Nigeria , this session will demystify complex regulations and share actionable insights to help businesses thrive amid transformation. Why You Should Attend Gain clarity on the latest tax reforms and their practical impact on businesses across sectors. Learn how to optimize… Show More REGISTER November 18, 2025, 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM Zoom Panel Nana Abu Senior Manager, Tax, Regulatory and People Services, KPMG in Nigeria Speaker With over 12 years of experience in tax advisory, compliance, and policy reform, Nana has supported numerous multinational and indigenous businesses in navigating complex tax landscapes. Her expertise spans consumer markets, infrastructure, and ICT sectors, helping organizations achieve compliance and… Show More Akinwale Alao Partner, Tax, Regulatory and People Services, KPMG in Nigeria Speaker Akinwale brings nearly two decades of professional experience advising local and international clients in sectors including retail, construction, oil and gas, and telecommunications. Recognized for his leadership in cross-border taxation and fiscal policy reform, he has contributed significantly to Nigeria’s… Show More REGISTER

Marketplace Ministry: SUITE Training with Seyi Abolaji Event Details: You are invited to another SUITE Training happening on Saturday, November 22nd, 2025 , with Seyi Abolaji, Founder of Wilson’s Juice Company. In this session, he will be speaking on “Marketplace Ministry”, where we will be exploring how faith, values, and enterprise can come together to build significant institutions and create lasting impact. 📌 Read more about this inspiring session below and be sure to register to secure your spot! From ₦2,000 in a Kiosk to a Leading Juice Brand When two brothers set up a tiny kiosk on a university campus with only ₦2,000, no one could have predicted what… Show More REGISTER November 22, 2025, 10:00 – 11:30 AM Zoom Panel Seyi Abolaji Co-Founder Wilson’s Juice Company Facilitator Seyi Abolaji is the Co-founder of Wilson’s Juice Company, one of Nigeria’s leading not-from-concentrate juice brands. What began with just ₦2000 in a small university kiosk has grown into a nationally recognized business with Wilson’s lemonades sold across Shoprite, SPAR,… Show More REGISTER

Member Focus: Sandra Chukwudozie of Salpha Energy Aug 20, 2025 Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Copy link In a world where millions still live without reliable access to electricity, a new wave of African entrepreneurs is rewriting the story of energy access. One of the boldest voices leading this transformation is Sandra Chukwudozie , Founder and CEO of Salpha Energy . Since establishing the company in 2017, she has delivered solar solutions to over 2 million people , bringing power, opportunity, and hope to underserved communities. From launching the first female-owned solar home system assembly plant in Sub-Saharan Africa to expanding into large-scale industrial applications, Sandra has positioned Salpha Energy as a pioneer in Africa’s clean energy revolution. A Forbes Africa 30 Under 30 honoree and member of the Africa Council for the Sustainable Markets Initiative (SMI) , Sandra is not only building a company but also shaping global conversations around sustainability and inclusive growth. Her career spans policy work at the United Nations to running a fast-growing African business, reflecting a rare blend of international perspective and local impact. In this edition of the Seed Nigeria Member Focus , Sandra shares her inspiring journey, offering valuable insights on entrepreneurship, leadership, and the future of Africa’s energy transition. Q: How did your time at the UN reshape how you saw yourself and influence the kind of legacy you wanted to build in Nigeria? A: I had a life-changing moment when I joined the United Nations in New York in 2015. It was at that time that I found myself through finding an outlet where I could actively work on effecting change. This change was none other than the energy transition. That same year, the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals were unveiled and the Paris Agreement (COP 26) was also ratified by the heads of state of 174 countries as well as the European Union. I saw the transition to clean energy as an opportunity to build my portfolio, and by becoming one of the pioneers to usher Nigeria into this era of renewable energy resources. As a young woman in Nigeria, I understood the importance of having a dream this big, the impact it would have on the country and the flame it would ignite in the hearts of young people; the underdogs, the underestimated who had something to prove. I wanted to channel the energy of the youth in order to usher in this change. Q: You recently secured a $1.3M investment to expand Salpha Energy’s reach. How did that moment land on a personal level? What did it mean to you, emotionally or symbolically? A: Salpha’s journey has unfolded in three distinct chapters. First, we focused on the product: how do we design solar solutions compelling enough to make people move away from generators? That required building a lean and efficient last-mile system physically getting to the customer, demonstrating value, and earning trust. Second, we tackled affordability. Our customers are often in the lowest income brackets. So we introduced flexible payment models to unlock access at scale. The third chapter was localization building a local assembly plant, developing in-house technical teams, and ensuring that the solar products we deliver are optimized for African realities. That means control over design, quality, and cost. So when the $1.3M investment came in, it marked more than growth capital. It was a clear signal that what we built was no longer just working, it was investable, scalable, and undeniably relevant. And yes it’s also significant that the only female-led solar home system assembly plant in Sub-Saharan Africa is now investment-backed. That moment was personal. Q: As a woman leading in the renewable energy space, what have been some of the deeply personal moments, times when you questioned yourself, overcame doubt, or found strength? A: In the early days, we struggled with unreliable suppliers and substandard components. It led to distribution challenges and trust issues with customers. That period was humbling, I thought I was solving for energy poverty, but I realized I was also up against economic power . Because energy poverty isn’t just about lack of electricity. It’s about who captures value. While we were focused on reaching last-mile communities, we were bleeding money upstream through inflated supplier costs, poor-quality components, and foreign-owned supply chains. That was a defining moment for me. It forced a mindset shift: we weren’t just distributors. We were builders. And if the value chain was going to change, it had to start from within by owning the supply chain, training technical talent, and making solar systems for Africa, in Africa. Q: What was the most difficult “yes” you’ve ever had to say in your journey, personally or professionally and how did that moment shape you? A: The hardest ‘yes’ was saying we’d build our assembly plant right here in Nigeria with all the inefficiencies, all the unknowns. Everyone told me to offshore it: cheaper, easier, less risky. But I said yes to local manufacturing because the energy transition has to include us not just as consumers, but as creators. That yes meant investing in systems where none existed, training talent from scratch, and absorbing the risk personally. But it also gave birth to something rare: a blueprint for how the next generation of climate-tech companies in Africa can own their future end to end. Q: You’ve intentionally built a women-inclusive company as over 75% of Salpha Energy’s workforce is female. Why is this so important to you personally? A: Because energy systems have historically been built without women in mind both in terms of who designs them and who benefits from them. At Salpha, we’re not just reversing that pattern. We’re designing forward . We’ve made women’s inclusion a core part of our strategy not just because it’s right, but because it makes the business stronger. From manufacturing to distribution, we’ve seen firsthand that when women are empowered with the right tools, training, and decision-making authority, performance improves. Retention improves. Impact scales faster. But it’s also personal. I’ve worked in rooms where women’s perspectives were dismissed not because they lacked insight, but because the system never expected them to speak. So when I had the chance to build something from the ground up, I built it differently. I built it with women in mind from day one. For us, inclusion isn’t a CSR statement it’s a competitive advantage. And in an industry that’s reshaping the future, there’s no excuse to build it using the exclusions of the past. Q: When you think of the impact Salpha Energy is making, what stories stick with you most, stories that moved you or reminded you of why this work matters? A: When people think about energy access, they often talk about numbers the millions still in the dark. But for me, the real impact is personal. It lives in the stories of people like Beatrice. Beatrice is a married woman in Cross River State unemployed, caring for her toddlers, and completely dependent on her husband to survive. Not by choice, but because unemployment in her community left her with no options. She was frustrated. Depressed. Stuck. Like many women in Nigeria, she was raised in a society that taught her that work, especially technical work, wasn’t for women. And even if she dared to dream, the opportunities didn’t exist. Today, Beatrice works in our factory assembling solar systems, earning a living, and building skills in a male-dominated field. And more than that, she’s building confidence. She’s rewriting the story for herself, for her family, and for every young girl watching. That’s what Salpha is about. Yes, we’ve reached over 2 million people with solar. But our mission goes beyond access we’re in the business of Energy Freedom . And for women especially, energy freedom is life-changing. It’s the difference between dependency and dignity. Between being told what’s possible and deciding that for yourself. Every time I walk into the factory and see women like Beatrice thriving, I’m reminded that this work isn’t just about light. It’s about liberation. Q: Balancing vision, execution, and personal growth isn’t easy. What routines, support systems, or mindset practices help keep you grounded and aligned? Gratitude keeps me dangerous. It reminds me that I’ve already survived things that once felt impossible. That grounds me. Working out sharpens my discipline and it’s a form of resistance too. I need strength, stamina, and clarity to lead under pressure. I also lean into stillness when I can. Reflection is my way of staying aligned. I don’t just want to move fast, I want to move with clarity. Q: What would you say to any young African woman with a bold idea but thoughts of, “Can I really do this?”... What would you say to her from your heart? A: The biggest regret is often the regret of not listening to your own voice. So make it a daily discipline to imagine the woman you want to become and show up like her, even when no one is watching. Read people’s stories. Watch their journeys. Not to copy them, but to remember that greatness is always imperfect at the start. You don’t need perfect conditions. You just need to move. Doubt is normal. What matters is choosing faith over fear and starting anyway. Sandra’s story is one of vision, resilience, and purpose. Through Salpha Energy , she has redefined what is possible in the clean energy sector by demonstrating that access can be both scalable and inclusive. By creating affordable solar solutions and investing in local talent, particularly women and youth, she has built more than an energy company; she has built an ecosystem of empowerment. Her journey reminds us that leadership is about more than innovation, it is about the lives touched and the futures transformed. As members of this network, we celebrate Sandra as a shining example of purpose-driven entrepreneurship and look forward to the continued impact of her work in shaping Africa’s sustainable energy future. comments debug Comments Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. Other News Inside the Seed Nigeria April Members' Hangout: An Evening of Connection, Insight, and Shared Experience There are moments within our network that go beyond structured sessions and formal engagements, moments where connection becomes more natural, conversations more open, and the value of community more evident. The April Members Hangout was one of those moments. From the very start, the atmosphere was warm and welcoming. Members arrived to familiar faces, shared greetings. For some, it was a chance to reconnect after a while. As the evening unfolded, conversations began to flow across tables,... Read More SUITE Training Recap: Building Brand Resilience in Times of Change What makes a brand survive uncertainty, and more importantly, what makes it win after it? At the recent SUITE Training held on Saturday, the 18th of April, 2026, at Greenpeg Engineering HQ in Lagos, Stanford Seed Nigeria hosted an in-depth and highly practical session led by Temitope Louis, MD/CEO of TradeEdge Limited. The focus was clear and timely: how to build resilient brands in times of change. Beyond the theme, what unfolded was a powerful breakdown of how identity, branding, and brand... Read More Navigating Nigeria’s New Tax Landscape: Key Takeaways from the Network’s Tax Webinar As Nigeria prepares for one of the most significant overhauls of its tax system in recent history, the Stanford Seed Transformation Network convened a timely and insightful Tax Webinar titled “Navigating Nigeria’s New Tax Landscape.” The session was designed to help businesses within the network stay informed, compliant, and strategically positioned ahead of the incoming reforms. Held on 18th November 2025 , the session focused on what the new tax laws mean in practice, not just in theory... Read More

Breaking the Isolation of Leadership: Insights from the Leadership Lab Feb 17, 2025 Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Copy link They say it can be lonely at the top. Leaders are often expected to have all the answers, make tough decisions, and navigate uncertainty with confidence. But even the most accomplished leaders face challenges and moments of doubt. At the Stanford Seed Transformation Network, Nigeria Chapter , we believe leadership is not a solo journey. That’s why we created the **Leadership Lab**, a transformative space where business leaders come together to share challenges, exchange insights, and grow through collaboration. This unique initiative fosters peer-to-peer learning, offering members a chance to gain actionable advice and fresh perspectives from fellow entrepreneurs. A Safe Space for Authentic Conversations The Leadership Lab is a powerful reminder of the strength found in community. During each session, members are divided into small groups where they openly discuss real-world business challenges—whether it’s scaling operations, navigating economic shifts, or managing teams effectively. These conversations are grounded in honesty and mutual respect, creating an environment where participants feel safe to share their struggles. What sets this experience apart is the practical, real-world advice offered by peers who have faced similar obstacles. It’s not about theories or abstract concepts; it’s about tested solutions and collaborative problem-solving that leaders can immediately apply to their businesses. Key Takeaways from the Leadership Lab Every session leaves participants with valuable lessons that shape their leadership journeys. Some of the key insights include: Openness is a Strength : True leadership lies in embracing vulnerability and being open to learning from others. Collaboration Fuels Growth : The best solutions often come from those who have walked similar paths and can offer fresh perspectives. A Trusted Network is Invaluable : Having a supportive community of like-minded leaders can make decision-making and problem-solving significantly easier. Why Community Matters in Leadership The Leadership Lab exemplifies why having a strong leadership network is essential. While each leader’s challenges may be unique, the collective wisdom of a trusted community makes navigating them more manageable. This initiative isn’t just an event—it’s a movement toward collaborative leadership, where members don’t just grow their businesses but also uplift one another. comments debug Comments Write a comment Write a comment Share Your Thoughts Be the first to write a comment. Other News Inside the Seed Nigeria April Members' Hangout: An Evening of Connection, Insight, and Shared Experience There are moments within our network that go beyond structured sessions and formal engagements, moments where connection becomes more natural, conversations more open, and the value of community more evident. The April Members Hangout was one of those moments. From the very start, the atmosphere was warm and welcoming. Members arrived to familiar faces, shared greetings. For some, it was a chance to reconnect after a while. As the evening unfolded, conversations began to flow across tables,... Read More SUITE Training Recap: Building Brand Resilience in Times of Change What makes a brand survive uncertainty, and more importantly, what makes it win after it? At the recent SUITE Training held on Saturday, the 18th of April, 2026, at Greenpeg Engineering HQ in Lagos, Stanford Seed Nigeria hosted an in-depth and highly practical session led by Temitope Louis, MD/CEO of TradeEdge Limited. The focus was clear and timely: how to build resilient brands in times of change. Beyond the theme, what unfolded was a powerful breakdown of how identity, branding, and brand... Read More Navigating Nigeria’s New Tax Landscape: Key Takeaways from the Network’s Tax Webinar As Nigeria prepares for one of the most significant overhauls of its tax system in recent history, the Stanford Seed Transformation Network convened a timely and insightful Tax Webinar titled “Navigating Nigeria’s New Tax Landscape.” The session was designed to help businesses within the network stay informed, compliant, and strategically positioned ahead of the incoming reforms. Held on 18th November 2025 , the session focused on what the new tax laws mean in practice, not just in theory... Read More

The Power of Building and Giving: Inside Ibilola Amao’s Leadership Journey Mar 23, 2026 Facebook X (Twitter) WhatsApp LinkedIn Copy link In this edition of Member Focus, we spotlight Ibilola Amao , a trailblazer in engineering, energy, and sustainability, whose career reflects a powerful blend of technical excellence and purpose-driven leadership. As the Principal Consultant of Lonadek Global Services , a multi-award-winning, ISO 9001:2015 certified engineering technology and innovation company, Ibilola has spent decades building solutions that sit at the intersection of engineering, digital transformation, and human capital development. Since its establishment in 1991, Lonadek has grown into a respected force providing engineering technology, asset and information management, STEM talent development, and training solutions across industries. Beyond the structure of her work lies something even more compelling, a commitment to people . Ibilola’s journey is not only about building systems and driving innovation, but also about creating pathways for others , particularly women, to rise in industries where they have historically been underrepresented. In this conversation, she shares insights into her journey — from how it all began, to the experiences that have shaped her leadership, her vision for the future of engineering and energy, and her unwavering dedication to mentoring the next generation of women in STEM. Ibilola Amao, Founder/CEO, Principal Consultant of Lonadek Global Services Q: You trained as an engineer in an industry where women are often underrepresented. When was the first time you realized competence alone would not be enough, that you would also need to command space? A: I have always focused on my competence, problem-solving DNA, and desire to add value. Uniquely and divinely orchestrated, my business is hinged on the thesis from my Ph.D. programme. I am in the business of sharing knowledge, building capacity, capability, and competence, while simultaneously trying to solve several value-adding problems. Naturally, this translates into innovation that commands its own space. Q: Engineers are trained to think in systems and precision. Has that mindset ever clashed with the unpredictability of entrepreneurship? A: Not at all. Engineering is about solving problems and making solutions widely available in a cost-effective manner. Entrepreneurship and engineering are so similar. Today, we call ourselves STEMpreneurs, TECHpreneurs, INTRApreneurs, or even EXTRApreneurs. Q: Have you ever deliberately softened or sharpened your personality to survive certain boardrooms? A: Not really. After several years of being a minority by gender or race in the UK, I have grown a very thick skin. I express myself professionally, and there has been no need to soften the reality. I focus on why I am on any board and then try to help diffuse herd thinking with alternative scenarios and out-of-the-box ideas, based on my ability to connect dots and solve problems simultaneously. Q: What has being a woman in engineering cost you, and what do you think is the best thing that has come out of that career path? A: I am grateful to God that I discovered my purpose very early in life, so my business, career, and profession are all aligned with my passion. My upbringing gave me the confidence to overcome several gender biases. I have always loved maths and problem-solving, and these attributes are at the core of engineering. At Lonadek, we solve problems for our clients too. Q: When you founded Lonadek, what fear did you not admit publicly, but later overcame? A: I started Lonadek by happenstance. The company exists by divine providence. It happened without a plan, and I have simply worked and walked with God on my problem-solving adventure. Q: What season taught you about leadership under pressure? A: Engineering is about deadlines, very tight deadlines, discipline, and focus. Over the years, I have learned it is better to work extremely hard at the start of a project than to face undue pressure towards the end. I front-load my activities. When resources are tight, we take the scenario-based-choice route. We play to our strengths and focus on what we do best without compromising our standards. Furthermore, I am very collaborative and happy to work in TEAMS or outsource what others do best. Business for me has never been do-or-die. Q: At what point did you realize your business was bigger than contracts and that it was about nation-building? A: I have always been a patriotic Nigerian. My late fathe r, Oba Engr. Adebayo Idowu Onadeko, raised us to love Nigeria. We traveled a lot with him by road during his career as a civil engineer building roads with the Federal Ministry of Works & Housing. Every problem I see that resonates with my DNA is an opportunity to create a project, initiative, enterprise, solution, or product. I am wired and born to create wealth. My name, Ibilola, speaks prophetically to my purpose. Q: Do you believe Nigeria’s engineering ecosystem is genuinely evolving, or are we still recycling dependency models? A: It is definitely evolving, with technology as an enabler. The Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) recently transformed into a global engine, with Nigerian engineers in the diaspora beginning to engage more locally. NSE’s most recent President, Engr. Mrs. Margaret Oguntala (FNSE), the first female president in 62 years, brought strategic partnerships to the fore. Lonadek signed an MoA with NSE, and we are looking at working closely with the Association of Professional Women Engineers in Nigeria (APWEN) to ensure gender diversity improves. Many engineering companies have foreign technical partners, and many Nigerian engineers are chartered or members of other international associations. The engineering ecosystem is increasingly global. Q: If you could redesign the way technical talent is trained in Africa, what would you dismantle first? A: I would not dismantle anything but leverage what exists. I would introduce night and weekend school. Theory would be based on practice rather than what we currently have, where classes are filled with engineers who have little or no hands-on experience. Q: Who are you when you’re not the engineer, not the CEO, not the advocate? A: I am a patriotic Nigerian, dedicated Christian, sister to awesome siblings, and a committed mother of three young adults. Q: Has leadership ever felt lonely for you? A: Not at all. I enjoy my own company a lot! I am an avid reader and always busy trying to solve one problem or another. I am in continuous Learning & Development mode most of the time or on one course or another. I love to learn. My sisters and a few friends are in my inner caucus whenever I feel the need to engage. I am an introvert with some extrovert tendencies when I am with my inner circle. Q: What belief about yourself did you have to completely unlearn to scale Lonadek? A: I have tried to stop knowing who is doing what and wanting to lend a helping hand when they have a challenge that others can solve. Q: In years to come, what do you think would still remain of Ibilola Amao’s impact? A: My legacy will definitely be in people and the lives I have touched. I have worked hard to demonstrate ethics, fairness, and integrity in business. I am grateful to have played a role in domiciling, domesticating, and democratizing technology in Nigeria. What I learned during my Ph.D. and the discoveries in engineering technology are now widely used at all levels. I am thankful to be known as an Apostle of Local Content and for playing a significant role in the passage of the Nigerian Oil & Gas Industry Content Development (NOGICD) Act and the establishment of the Nigerian Content Development & Monitoring Board (NCDMB). Following my involvement in implementing the NNPC/Bechtel Technology Transfer Agreement—which birthed the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) National Engineering & Technical Company (NETCO) Ltd—I have remained true to technology transfer and developing local talent. Q: Twenty years from now, what do you want young African female engineers to thank you for? A: I would like young female engineers to thank me for bringing clarity to the fact that becoming a STEMpreneur or TECHpreneur is a very exciting adventure for females. Also, by the special grace of God and the guidance of the Holy Spirit, your Masters dissertation or Ph.D. thesis can become the foundation of a business plan. We need to practicalize theory as applied knowledge to create wealth and jobs! Ibilola Amao’s journey is a powerful reminder that true leadership goes beyond personal success. It is reflected in the lives you influence, the opportunities you create, and the legacy you build. Through her work at Lonadek Global Services and her continued advocacy for women in STEM, sustainability, and innovation, she is not only shaping industries but also shaping people, equipping the next generation with the tools, confidence, and guidance to lead. Her story embodies the spirit of #GiveToGain — a belief that the more we invest in others, the greater the impact we create. As a network, we are proud to celebrate her contributions and the path she continues to pave for women in engineering, energy, and entrepreneurship. comments debug Comments (1) Write a comment Write a comment Sort by: Newest Ade Iyabo Onadeko Ogunyannwo Apr 12 Truly inspiring.... Like Reply Other News Inside the Seed Nigeria April Members' Hangout: An Evening of Connection, Insight, and Shared Experience There are moments within our network that go beyond structured sessions and formal engagements, moments where connection becomes more natural, conversations more open, and the value of community more evident. The April Members Hangout was one of those moments. From the very start, the atmosphere was warm and welcoming. Members arrived to familiar faces, shared greetings. For some, it was a chance to reconnect after a while. As the evening unfolded, conversations began to flow across tables,... Read More SUITE Training Recap: Building Brand Resilience in Times of Change What makes a brand survive uncertainty, and more importantly, what makes it win after it? At the recent SUITE Training held on Saturday, the 18th of April, 2026, at Greenpeg Engineering HQ in Lagos, Stanford Seed Nigeria hosted an in-depth and highly practical session led by Temitope Louis, MD/CEO of TradeEdge Limited. The focus was clear and timely: how to build resilient brands in times of change. Beyond the theme, what unfolded was a powerful breakdown of how identity, branding, and brand... Read More Navigating Nigeria’s New Tax Landscape: Key Takeaways from the Network’s Tax Webinar As Nigeria prepares for one of the most significant overhauls of its tax system in recent history, the Stanford Seed Transformation Network convened a timely and insightful Tax Webinar titled “Navigating Nigeria’s New Tax Landscape.” The session was designed to help businesses within the network stay informed, compliant, and strategically positioned ahead of the incoming reforms. Held on 18th November 2025 , the session focused on what the new tax laws mean in practice, not just in theory... Read More