WOMEN EXECUTIVES SEEK GREATER INFLUENCE IN CORPORATE LEADERSHIP

Women executives and business leaders have called for greater female participation in corporate decision-making, arguing that representation alone does not necessarily translate into influence.

The call was made at the Executive Women Summit in Lagos, where participants discussed strategies for helping women advance into senior leadership and executive positions.

The summit, convened by Executive Coach and Founder of BMO Advisory Services, Bola Matel-Okoh, was themed “Playing to Win: Elevate Your Vision, Value and Visibility.”

Keynote speaker Folake Sanu urged women to broaden their professional experience beyond their core functions and gain greater exposure to markets, customers, strategy and revenue generation.

She said women seeking senior leadership positions should take on projects outside their immediate responsibilities and build stronger strategic relationships.

Founder of Shape A Child, Izehi Anuge, said the conversation around corporate gender inclusion should move towards participation, influence and economic equality.

She noted that female representation on boards does not automatically guarantee influence over major corporate decisions.

Other speakers highlighted visibility, organisational awareness, resilience, communication and commercial experience as important areas for professional growth.

They also encouraged women to build networks and communities that provide continuing support beyond one-day conferences.

The participants said sustained mentorship, professional relationships and access to strategic opportunities could help create a stronger pipeline of women progressing from entry-level positions to executive leadership.