In life and at work, I like to think that anything is possible. This belief has helped me overcome many challenges in my professional career. It reminds me that with determination and a positive mindset, I can achieve my goals and overcome obstacles. It has been a source of motivation during difficult times and has encouraged me even when the odds seem insurmountable.
I was fascinated by accounting from a young age. It started at a primary school career day when a sharply dressed accountant came to visit and sparked an interest that still motivates me in my work today.
I began my career as an internal auditor in the oil and gas sector, but then moved to a corporate accounting role in a facility management company, honing my skills in financial reporting and analysis. Later, I worked in finance at sub-Saharan Africa’s largest electricity distribution network, protecting its revenue streams, and in procurement management at the country’s biggest power plant. Recently, I became the chief risk officer at Ikeja Electric, an energy distribution organisation, where I focus on identifying and mitigating risks.
As chief risk officer, I enjoy having a top-down view of the business
The electricity sector in Nigeria faces an array of challenges. These include ageing infrastructure, insufficient power generation, vandalism, lack of investment and inadequate transmission and distribution. These issues cause frequent outages for both residential and industrial users.
That said, there are also many opportunities for the industry. ‘Captive generation’, for example, allows companies to produce their own power, reducing reliance on the grid, while ‘embedded generation’ involves smaller units connected to the distribution network, providing localised supply. New independent power projects are plants developed by private investors. Further investment in new infrastructure, smart grid technologies and renewable energy should also significantly improve the sector’s performance.
I stepped out of my comfort zone when I led the Feeder Loss Reduction Unit at a distribution company. This involved identifying and reducing technical losses on electricity feeders, so I had to learn basic physics, which was challenging without a background in it. I successfully delivered this task, reducing annual technical losses from US$17.3m to US$13m and improving efficiency. This experience taught me the importance of collaboration and seeking expert help.
As chief risk officer, I enjoy having a top-down view of the business. I see everything and consider the impact of strategies before implementation, then provide real-time advice. I influence decision-making and ensure the company is prepared for potential risks, so I help protect the company’s assets. Furthermore, I like that my role also drives collaboration across departments.
My biggest achievement so far has been managing the overhaul of a large thermal generating unit and restoring three 220MW generating plants within three and a half years. It required meticulous planning and execution, involving suppliers, contractors and regulatory bodies. The restoration significantly increased the company’s power generation capacity and provided a more reliable electricity supply.
If I wasn’t an accountant, I would love to be a confectionery baker
If I had law-making powers, I would amend the immunity clause for public office holders in the Nigerian Constitution so that they could be prosecuted for wrongdoing while in office. This would deter corruption, and promote accountability and a culture of integrity that would benefit the entire nation.
If I wasn’t an accountant, I would love to be a confectionery baker. Baking is very therapeutic for me. I love creating delicious treats and experimenting with new recipes. Baking allows me to unwind and express my creativity, and there is a sense of accomplishment when I see the final product.
As well as baking, my hobbies are event planning and watching movies. I enjoy organising events for the memorable experiences they produce, and movies allow me to relax and escape from day-to-day activities. These hobbies help balance my professional life and provide opportunities to recharge.
