The Women in Management, Business, and Public Service (WIMBIZ) hosted its 24th Annual Conference on the 6th – 7th at the Eko Hotels and Suites in Lagos, drawing an impressive crowd of women leaders, entrepreneurs, and policy influencers under the theme “O.W.N — Own, Walk, Nurture.”

From its opening session to the closing panel, the two-day event buzzed with inspiring conversations about leadership, innovation, and inclusion. The first session featured powerhouse speakers like Sola Adesakin (Lead Coach & Founder, Smart Stewards), Richmond Bassey (Co-Founder & CEO, Bamboo), Natelle Beinisch (Co-Founder, Circular Economy Innovation Partnership), Dr. Folasade Femi‑Lawal (Country Manager, West Africa, Mastercard), Dr. Olaitan Martins (Group Executive, Corporate Banking Directorate, FirstBank of Nigeria), and Adeumi Atayero (Head, Mutual Funds, ChapelHill Denham),who discussed how women can turn expertise and passion into sustainable wealth.

The highlight of the day was the keynote address by Dr. Arunma Oteh, former Vice President and Treasurer of the World Bank, who spoke on the conference’s core message — Monetize your passion, your proficiency, your partnerships, and your past experiences. Her session struck a chord with many in the audience, challenging women to leverage their strengths and networks for impact.

Conversations That Matter

Finance expert Taiwo Oyedele, Chairman of the Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms Committee, led a deeply engaging session on Nigeria’s evolving tax policies and reform plans. He emphasized transparency and accountability in fiscal management while urging women-owned businesses to stay informed on emerging tax laws.

Panelists Rabi Isma, Ore Lawani, Akomu Omoye, and Funke Amobi shared insights on leadership, growth, and authenticity, encouraging participants to approach success with courage and intention.

Special Awards & Additional Highlights

During the awards segment, the conference celebrated groundbreaking achievements in law, honouring Dame Priscilla Olabori Kuye, Nigeria’s first female President of the Nigerian Bar Association, and Catherine Chinyere Edeh-Nnadi, the country’s first deaf female lawyer, for their trailblazing roles in legal advocacy and inclusion.

The event wrapped up with networking sessions, media interactions, and an atmosphere of renewed purpose. Attendees described the experience as “transformative,” applauding WIMBIZ for continuously creating a space that inspires women to lead boldly and build legacies that last.