Abimbola Adekoya is a seasoned finance executive and passionate advocate for women’s leadership, amid over 17 years of experience in the Nigerian hospitality industry.
She currently serves as Director of Finance & Business Support at Lagos Continental Hotel, where she leads financial strategy and operational performance. A Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) and an MBA holder from the University of Lagos, Adekoya has held senior finance leadership roles with global hospitality brands, including Marriott International, amid professional experience in Ghana and Guinea.
In alignment with this year’s International Women’s Day theme, “Give to Gain,” she speaks to OBINNA EMELIKE about the transformative power of lifting others as you rise. She shares lessons from her own journey navigating leadership spaces where women are often underrepresented, emphasizing that mentorship, knowledge sharing, and intentional support create pathways not just for individual success, but for collective progress. Excerpt:
Congratulations on this year’s International Women’s Day. How significant is the day to you?
International Women’s Day is more than a calendar event for me. It is a moment of reckoning, gratitude, and renewed commitment.
This year’s theme, “Give to Gain,” resonates deeply. It captures the very essence of leadership: the more we invest in others, the more enduring the returns. It reminds me of the years of dedication, the quiet sacrifices, the bold decisions, and the unfinished work that still lies ahead. For women in leadership, it is both a celebration and a call to action.
How does the celebration impact the women folks at work and even home?
At work and at home, the International Women’s Day does something powerful; it makes women feel seen. It affirms our contribution not just within our families, but in the larger architecture of nation-building. In boardrooms, in kitchens, in guest service operations, in finance departments; women are driving performance, culture, and growth. A day like this reminds us that our impact matters, and that our voices are shaping industries.
Any activities to mark the day?
Yes. At Continental Hotels Group, we believe celebration must come with substance. To commemorate the day, we host conversations with senior associates both within and outside the organization who will share their leadership journeys and industry insights. We organize health talks because wellness is foundational to productivity. And, of course, we create moments of joy and connection through engaging activities that strengthen our community.
Do you think women are better treated at the Continental Hotels Group?
I am proud to say that Continental Hotels Group is deeply gender-equality conscious. We operate on a level playing field where performance, competence, and character define advancement and not gender
If yes, what is the gender equality ratio and how many women are in top management position in the group?
Currently, women make up 35 percent of top management within the group. That is significant progress, but it is not the destination. It is a milestone.
Why are women yet to occupy top positions in hotels, especially executive chefs, and general managers?
The hospitality industry has seen women rise to general manager positions, but the numbers are still modest especially in operationally intensive roles such as executive chefs and hotel general managers. The truth is not a lack of capability; it is often a lack of opportunity, exposure, structured training, and visible sponsorship. We must intentionally create pathways for qualified and interested women. We must allow them to step into challenging roles even when they are not 100 percent certain. Growth often happens in motion. Confidence is built in the doing. More mentorship, more executive training, and more sponsorship at decision making tables. That is how change accelerates.
Do women also support their folks at the workplace, particularly in the group?
Absolutely, one of the most inspiring aspects of our culture within the group is that we are truly a community of women supporting women. We understand that when one woman rises, she pulls others up with her. ‘We rise together’.
How much support do women get from their male staff members at Continental Hotels Group?
Progress is not achieved in isolation. It requires partnership. I must acknowledge that the men within Continental Hotels Group are supportive. There is mutual respect and shared commitment to excellence. The support we receive enables us to deliver results and sustain momentum.
Can you share your most memorable moments at the workplace as a woman?
When I reflect on my most memorable moments at work, they are not tied to titles, they are tied to triumphs. Moments when, as a team, we achieved budgeted sales and profit in a year that initially seemed impossible. When market conditions were difficult, projections uncertain, and morale tested, yet we persevered. Leadership is forged in such seasons. There is nothing more fulfilling than turning doubt into delivery.
What about intimidation and harassment if any and how did you handle it?
Personally, I have not experienced harassment or intimidation in the workplace. However, I firmly believe that any individual who feels harassed must speak up and report through the appropriate channels.
Organizations must provide safe reporting structures and access to counselors. Silence protects systems. Speaking up protects people and a culture of accountability protects everyone.
Are there things women wish the Group could change, improve on or introduce to make your experience better?
Continental Hotels Group is a strong employer of choice. From staff layovers to crèche facilities for working mothers, we have implemented structures that support work-life integration. I would love to see more women deliberately groomed on the general manager pathway; structured succession planning that identifies high-potential female executives early and equips them strategically.
What is your take in the women’s celebration?
International Women’s Day is not just about celebrating how far we have come, it is about acknowledging how far we must still go. “Give to Gain” reminds us that leadership is an act of generosity. When we mentor, advocate, train, and uplift, we build a legacy that outlives us. And that, ultimately, is the greatest gain of all.
Do you have any message for women?
Yes. When we give courage, guidance, and opportunity to others, we gain stronger leaders, stronger institutions, and a stronger future.
