In the dynamic world of global finance, few voices resonate as powerfully as that of Dr. Oluwatoyin Sanni. As the founder and chief executive of the Emerging Africa Group, she stands at the helm of a formidable financial services group with interests spanning investment banking, financial technology, venture capital, and microfinance banking. But to label her merely a financier would be to overlook the profound impact she has as a mentor, influencer, and champion for sustainable growth across the continent.
Dr Sanni’s journey is one of purpose and passion. A co-founder of the Africa Investment Roundtable, she also chairs the board of innovative technology firm Layer 3 Limited and serves as vice-chair for Fundall Limited. Her drive, however, extends far beyond the boardroom. She finds deep fulfilment in nurturing the next generation of leaders through highly regarded executive mentorship programmes, and in crafting capital solutions that address the unique financing challenges faced by African governments, businesses, and individuals.
With a rich academic background including a master’s degree in law and numerous professional qualifications, Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Stockbrokers, Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Secretaries and Administrators, and Member of the Chartered Institute of Securities and Investments in the United Kingdom, Dr Sanni possesses a rare blend of legal and financial expertise. This, combined with extensive experience in corporate finance and asset management, allows her to leverage cross-market networks and lead her team in delivering advisory and capital-raising solutions that foster sustainable economic development.
Her influence is reflected in her roles on numerous prestigious boards and committees, including Transnational Corporation Plc, the Off Grid Energy Fund, and the NEPAD Business Group Nigeria. She also chairs the Technical Committee on Financial Literacy of the Nigerian Capital Market and serves as an ambassador and co-chair for the Africa CEO Forum Network in Nigeria.
Committed to elevating other women in her field, Dr Sanni is the founder and chairperson of the Women in Finance Nigeria Network and its United Kingdom counterpart. Her accolades are a testament to her stature: she was declared the All African Business Woman of the Year by CNBC Africa in 2017, Nigeria’s Chief Executive Officer of the Year by the Pearl Awards that same year, and in 2020, she received the Africa Influencer Award from Tech Times Africa.
An accomplished author, she has written three books, including the insightful Riding The Eagle – A Guide to Investing in Nigeria. Through her writing, speaking engagements, and relentless drive, Dr Oluwatoyin Sanni continues to inspire, lead, and shape the future of finance and female leadership in Africa and beyond.
