Vanessa 
As part of the 2025 International Women’s Day celebration, the London Business School (LBS) Alumni Community in Nigeria hosted a private brunch and fireside chat in Lagos. The event spotlighted Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe leadership, featuring the Fidelity Bank CEO’s bold insights on resilience, purpose, and driving impact.
Top executives from finance, FMCG, investment, and other key sectors gathered for a conversation on leadership and resilience. The event aligned with this year’s global Women’s Month theme, Accelerate Action. However, it was Dr. Onyeali-Ikpe’s insights that set the tone for the day.
Breaking Barriers in the Banking Sector
As the first female CEO in Fidelity Bank’s history, Dr. Onyeali-Ikpe has redefined leadership in Nigeria’s banking industry. She spoke candidly about her journey in a male-dominated space, emphasizing courage and values-driven decision-making.
“I’ve never acknowledged the gender glass ceiling,” she said. “When something looks like a barrier, I use it as motivation to push harder.” Her words were not just motivational, they revealed a mindset that has shaped her leadership style.
Dr. Onyeali-Ikpe also highlighted key principles that have guided her success: discipline, self-belief, and resilience. “Don’t fear failure. It’s part of the process,” she noted. “Every misstep has taught me something useful.”
At Fidelity Bank, her tenure has delivered record-breaking results. She has also championed innovation, diversity, and financial inclusion. Her impact extends beyond the bank, influencing the broader financial services industry.
Beyond business, Dr. Onyeali-Ikpe stressed the need for balance in women’s lives. “Balancing family and career isn’t just important for success in business, it’s essential for life,” she said. Her call for holistic leadership resonated with many attendees.
A strong advocate for gender equity, she noted that 11 of Nigeria’s 26 commercial bank CEOs are now women. While acknowledging progress, she urged continued action. “That’s progress, but we must not stop there. We want to see that number rise.”
Her presence was both inspiring and affirming. “It’s refreshing to see so many women leading with excellence,” she remarked, applauding the LBS network.
Closing the event, Akintayo Sanwo-Olu, President of the LBS Alumni Community Nigeria, said, “We’re not just talking about change, we’re building it. At LBS, we’re committed to empowering more women to lead and changing the gender narrative.”
Indeed, Dr. Onyeali-Ikpe’s words and work exemplify leadership rooted in purpose, vision, and lasting impact.
