The Power Play: Women, Leadership, and Boardroom Dominance with Mrs. Eniola Fadayomi

From Courtrooms to Boardrooms: A Journey of Grit and Grace

Stepping into the boardroom as a woman is no small feat, it’s a power move. And if there’s anyone who knows how to own that space, it’s Mrs. Eniola Fadayomi, Chairman of Africa Prudential Plc. Her career isn’t just a timeline; it’s a masterclass in resilience, reinvention, and relentless ambition.

"My journey has been an interplay between the public and private sectors. I started as a young legal professional at the Lagos State Ministry of Justice, moving through Legislative Drafting, Prosecution, and Civil Litigation. Then came my pivot into the private sector, joining First Bank of Nigeria’s legal team; an entryway into the intricate world of commercial law and corporate finance."

Her trajectory didn’t stop there. By 1987, she was making history as the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice for Lagos State, an appointment that set the stage for an even bigger leap.

"I was later appointed Chairman of Afribank Plc for eight years, navigating the high-stakes world of banking. Then came my tenure as Lagos State Commissioner for Women Affairs & Poverty Alleviation. Every role has been a building block, shaping my path to boardroom leadership."

Fast forward to today, she sits at the helm of Africa Prudential PLC, steering the company with wisdom, influence, and a firm belief in lifting other women to the top.

Breaking Barriers: What’s Stopping Women From Taking Their Seat at the Table?

Why aren’t more women in the boardroom? The obstacles are real, but so is the fight to overcome them. Mrs. Fadayomi lays it bare:

Exclusion from Power Networks – "Some of the most influential professional networks are still closed off to women. Old Boys' clubs, exclusive fellowships, and men’s associations create a barrier to key opportunities."

Bias & Stereotypes – "Many industries, especially male-dominated ones like engineering and finance, hesitate to entrust women with boardroom power. There’s also the unfortunate reality of sexism and harassment that discourages many."

The Work-Life Balancing Act – "Women often juggle career and family responsibilities in ways that men don’t. Cultural and societal norms make it difficult to prioritize professional ambitions without backlash."

But here’s the kicker: the landscape is changing. Women are claiming their space, rewriting the rules, and proving that boardroom dominance isn’t just possible—it’s inevitable.

The Boardroom Playbook: How to Get There

So how do you go from aspiring leader to boardroom boss? Mrs. Fadayomi shares the blueprint:

Become an Expert – "Know your industry inside out. Gain specialized knowledge that makes you an asset in board discussions."

Network Like a Boss – "Your connections matter. Build strategic relationships with executives, board members, and decision-makers."

Own Your Narrative – "Personal branding is everything. Use social media, public speaking, and thought leadership to position yourself as a leader."

Get Boardroom-Ready – "Join professional organizations, take board training courses, and get experience by serving on smaller boards first."

Navigating Gender Bias: The Fadayomi Strategy

"Gender bias exists. But here’s the secret: you don’t just push through it—you rise above it."

Know Your Strengths – "Confidence starts with self-awareness. Identify your strengths and own them."

Be Strategic – "Find mentors and allies who can help open doors. Influence isn’t just about talent—it’s about positioning."

Communicate with Power – "Speak up. Make your voice heard in every room you enter. Clarity and conviction command respect."

Mrs. Fadayomi believes that women must not only claim their place at the table but also pull up extra seats for others.

Final Word: Power Moves Only

"Leadership isn’t about waiting for an invitation—it’s about making your presence undeniable. Women must build influence, create opportunities, and support one another in the climb to the top."

And that’s exactly how boardroom dominance is achieved.