By Blessing Emmanuel
In the dynamic and rapidly evolving world of financial technology, certain individuals stand out for their visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to innovation.
One such luminary is Ibukun Akinola, the Head of Customer Finance at PiggyVest, Nigeria’s leading digital savings and investment platform. With a career spanning over a decade, Ibukun has been instrumental in redefining customer financial experiences and championing cybersecurity within the fintech sector.
Ibukun’s academic foundation is rooted in Bachelor of Science (BSC) in Accounting from Covenant University, Ota, Nigeria. Her quest for global business acumen led her to obtain a Master of Science in International Business from Coventry University in the United Kingdom. This blend of local and international education equipped her with a unique perspective on financial systems and business operations.
Her professional journey commenced in 2014 at Spids Logistics, where she served as a Logistics and Finance Officer. In this role, Ibukun honed her skills in financial management and operational logistics, laying a solid groundwork for her future endeavors.
Demonstrating entrepreneurial flair, Ibukun co-founded PushCV in July 2014, assuming the role of Chief Financial Officer. PushCV was conceived to bridge the gap between job seekers and employers, addressing unemployment challenges by connecting qualified candidates with potential employers. Under her financial stewardship, PushCV grew into a reputable platform in Nigeria’s recruitment industry.
In April 2016, Ibukun transitioned to PiggyVest, taking on the pivotal role of Head of Customer Finance.
Her tenure at PiggyVest has been marked by a relentless pursuit of excellence in customer financial services and a steadfast commitment to cybersecurity.
At PiggyVest, Ibukun leads the Customer Finance Team, where she focuses on optimising financial interactions and ensuring the effective resolution of finance-related queries. Her leadership has been crucial in enhancing customer satisfaction and assisting clients in achieving their financial goals.
Ibukun’s role extends beyond traditional financial oversight; she is deeply involved in strategic planning and execution.
She collaborates closely with other departments to develop user-centric financial products and services, ensuring that PiggyVest remains at the forefront of innovation in the fintech industry.
In an era where digital transactions are increasingly susceptible to cyber threats, Ibukun has emerged as a staunch advocate for cybersecurity within the fintech sector. Recognising the importance of collaborative efforts to combat fraud, she played a pivotal role in organising PiggyVest’s inaugural cybersecurity roundtable in November 2024.
During her closing remarks at the event, Ibukun emphasised the necessity of industry-wide collaboration to enhance security measures: “We’re very security conscious at PiggyTech, so this was a great forum for industry leaders to find a way to move forward in combating fraud in this industry.”
Her proactive approach underscores PiggyVest’s commitment to safeguarding user data and maintaining the integrity of financial transactions.
Beyond her responsibilities at PiggyVest, Ibukun is a prominent figure in the broader fintech community. She has been instrumental in organizing industry events, such as the PiggyVest Finance Roundtable in February 2024, which convened fintech leaders to discuss the Nigerian financial landscape. These platforms facilitate the exchange of ideas and foster collaborative solutions to industry challenges.
Ibukun is also a passionate advocate for mentorship and community engagement. She actively participates in initiatives aimed at empowering young women in technology, believing that shared experiences can pave the way for others. In a recent interview with Growing Women In Business, she shared her insights on the significance of mentorship:
”Mentorship is a two-way street; while you impart knowledge, you also learn and grow.”
Her dedication to nurturing the next generation of tech leaders reflects her commitment to the sustainable growth of the industry.
Looking ahead, Ibukun envisions a more inclusive and secure fintech landscape in Nigeria.
She is committed to driving innovations that enhance financial accessibility, user security, and financial literacy. Her forward-thinking approach aims to create solutions that are both user-centric and resilient against emerging cyber threats.
Ibukun’s leadership philosophy is anchored in continuous learning and adaptability. She encourages her team and peers to embrace challenges as opportunities for growth, fostering a culture of resilience and innovation.
Ibukun Akinola’s unwavering dedication and impactful contributions have not gone unnoticed.
Her recognition as NewsDirect’s Thriving Woman of the Week is a testament to her exemplary leadership and transformative influence in Nigeria’s fintech sector.
Her journey serves as an inspiration to many, illustrating the profound impact of resilience, continuous learning, and community engagement. As she continues to spearhead initiatives that redefine financial services and security, Ibukun’s legacy is poised to leave an indelible mark on the industry.