Dr. Doris Uzoka-Anite redefines leadership in medicine, finance, and public service
Dr. Doris Nkiruka Uzoka-Anite is a distinguished Nigerian professional whose multifaceted career spans medicine, finance, and public service. Her journey exemplifies resilience, adaptability, and leadership, making her a formidable force in Nigeria’s economic and governance landscape.
Born on 16 October 1973 in Oguta, Imo State, Nigeria, Dr. Uzoka-Anite demonstrated an early aptitude for excellence. She began her education at State Primary School in Festac Town, Lagos, obtaining her First School Leaving Certificate in 1984. She proceeded to Ilupeju College, Lagos, where she earned her West African Senior Secondary Certificate Examination (WASSCE) in 1989.
Her passion for healthcare led her to the University of Benin, where she obtained a Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) degree in 1999. Recognising the intersection of finance and economic development, she later became a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA), a qualification that broadened her expertise beyond medicine.
In 2002, Dr. Uzoka-Anite made a bold transition from medicine to banking, joining Zenith Bank Plc. She began in the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) unit but quickly rose through the ranks due to her analytical skills and leadership capabilities.
She later headed the Human Resources and Training department before moving to the Treasury division in 2011, where she specialised in fixed income and currency trading, asset and liability management, and treasury corporate sales. Her remarkable performance earned her an appointment as Treasurer of Zenith Bank in 2017, and by 2019, she had risen to the position of General Manager.
Her expertise in finance caught the attention of policymakers, and in March 2021, she was appointed as the Commissioner for Finance and Coordinating Economy in Imo State by Governor Hope Uzodinma. In this role, she played a pivotal part in implementing fiscal strategies that contributed to the economic revitalisation of the state.
Her exceptional performance at the state level led to her nomination and inauguration as Nigeria’s Minister of Industry, Trade, and Investment in August 2023 under President Bola Tinubu’s administration. She now plays a critical role in shaping national trade policies and economic strategies.
Beyond her ministerial duties, Dr. Uzoka-Anite serves on several key presidential committees, including the Presidential Economic Committee and the Presidential Food Security Council. Her involvement in these high-level bodies underscores her commitment to fostering economic growth and ensuring food security for Nigerians.
Despite her demanding career, Dr. Uzoka-Anite has faced personal challenges, including the loss of her mother, Victoria Uzoka, in July 2024. However, she continues to forge ahead, demonstrating resilience and dedication to national development.
Her journey from a medical doctor to a top-tier banker and a policy-driven public servant is a testament to the power of versatility, determination, and excellence. She stands as an inspiration to women across Nigeria, proving that with the right mindset and relentless pursuit of knowledge, one can break barriers and make a lasting impact across multiple sectors.
