Marketing leaders and industry stakeholders have called for stronger female influence in shaping the future of Nigeria’s marketing profession, as the National Institute of Marketing of Nigeria (NIMN) hosted the maiden edition of its LeadHers in Marketing Conference, bringing together top female executives, policymakers and professionals to explore how women can drive innovation, trust and leadership in a rapidly evolving marketing landscape.
Themed, “Redefining Influence: Women Shaping the Future of Marketing,” the conference, which featured keynote speeches, panel discussions, a health talk, and a leadership masterclass/firesidechat, focused on how women are reshaping marketing leadership through innovation, technology, empathy, and strategic thinking in 2026.
In her welcome address, Dr Bolajoko Bayo-Ajayi, President of NIMN, described the conference as the beginning of a transformative platform for women in the marketing profession.
She said the initiative was designed to amplify women’s voices and leadership in shaping the future of marketing across Nigeria and beyond.
According to her, influence in the marketing profession is evolving beyond traditional metrics such as reach and visibility to include authenticity, trust, and meaningful engagement.
“Today marks the beginning of a new chapter in our collective journey where leadership, impact, and influence converge to shape the future of marketing in Nigeria and beyond,” she said.
Bayo-Ajayi added that women are increasingly becoming architects of the profession’s future by bringing empathy, innovation, and storytelling into the heart of brand strategy.
“Women are no longer just participants in marketing; we are expanding our footprints as architects of its future,” she stated.
She noted that the conference was created to bridge the gap between experienced marketing leaders and emerging professionals while fostering collaboration and inclusive leadership across the industry.
Delivering the special guest address, the Lagos State Commissioner for Commerce, Cooperatives, Trade and Investment, Folashade Ambrose‑Medebem, emphasised the growing role of women in driving innovation, entrepreneurship, and market growth.
She commended the institute for creating a platform dedicated to women’s leadership in marketing and noted that the sector plays a critical role in shaping consumer perception, business growth, and national development.
The commissioner encouraged women professionals to embrace leadership opportunities and leverage innovation and technology to influence markets and build globally competitive brands.
The keynote speaker, Osayi Alile, delivered an inspiring address urging women to stop waiting for permission before stepping into leadership spaces.
Alile stressed that many women delay opportunities while trying to become “overqualified,” a habit she said often limits their growth.
She encouraged women to support one another and build networks that strengthen their influence in business and leadership.
According to her, the rapidly evolving marketing landscape driven by technology, artificial intelligence, and changing consumer behaviour requires women to confidently assert their expertise and participate actively in shaping industry narratives.
Alile also noted that when women influence marketing strategy and storytelling, representation becomes more inclusive and brands become more reflective of society.
A panel session moderated by Chizor Malize, the MD/CEO of FITC, explored how influence in marketing has evolved in the digital era.
Panelists including Onyinye Ikenna‑Emeka, Chief Marketing Officer, MTN; Chioma Afe, Director, External Affairs & Social Performance, Seplat and Adebola Williams, Marketing Director, Promasidor Nigeria Limited, highlighted the growing importance of trust, authenticity, and consumer insight in building strong brands.
They noted that influence is no longer defined solely by visibility or advertising reach but by the ability of brands to connect meaningfully with consumers and deliver real value.
The panellists also discussed courageous leadership, the importance of relational intelligence, and the role women play in balancing stakeholder expectations across business, community, and regulatory environments.
The conference also featured a masterclass and fireside chat moderated by Tosin Adefeko, CEO, AT3 Resources, with Folake Soetan, CEO, Ikeja Electric Plc.
During the session, Soetan emphasised that digital presence has become a critical extension of leadership in today’s business environment.
She encouraged professionals to leverage digital platforms to share insights, build credibility, and influence industry conversations while ensuring competence and value remain the foundation of visibility.
Participants also received insights on leadership growth, mentorship, and navigating professional influence in an increasingly digital world.
The event further featured a health awareness session by Nordica Fibroid Care Centre, which highlighted the importance of women’s health and wellness in sustaining career growth.
In her closing remarks, Thelma Okoh, Registrar/Secretary to council national institute of Marketing of nigeria commended participants and speakers for contributing to the success of the inaugural conference.
She noted that the LeadHers conference represents a strategic platform to empower women marketers, inspire the next generation of industry leaders, and strengthen the role of marketing in national development.