The event also recognised individuals making progress across sectors, including Linda Ochugbua, who was named among the Top 10 Exceptional Professionals of the Year in Branding and Communications.

Ochugbua has over 17 years of professional experience, with 12 years in the media industry. She is currently the Digital Sales Manager at BusinessDay Media, where she oversees digital sales strategy and leads a team of sales executives and customer service representatives.

Her role includes driving digital revenue, developing digital products, and supporting business development initiatives. She also manages client relationships and introduces bespoke advertising solutions for evolving market needs.

“Receiving this award affirms the bold risks, strategic choices, and countless late nights. It reminds me why I show up fully every day, to create meaningful results, build real value, and keep stretching what’s possible in my field,” Ochugba said.

During the conference, the Founder of TIBA, Omababinrin Adeola Osideko, shared the organisation’s history and the changes that shaped its evolution.

In her welcome remarks, she said her vision for The Iconic Brand Africa came from her own journey of “persistence, learning, and growth”.

She explained that after years of running an award platform, the board encouraged her to expand the mission into a wider learning and development movement. This led to the establishment of an academy, new programmes, and a broader organisational structure aimed at supporting professionals and entrepreneurs.

In a moderated conversation, Osideko discussed personal lessons from her journey, including dealing with criticism, navigating leadership responsibilities, and managing expectations from people within and outside her team.

She stated that one of her early challenges was the belief that everyone needed to like her. She noted that she later learnt to prioritise respect over acceptance, quoting, “Do not seek to be liked, seek to be respected.”

She also spoke about online bullying, recounting a widely discussed incident that led to a legal case. She emphasised that the experience did not stop her work.

Instead, it led her to shift her presence from Facebook to LinkedIn, which she described as a “safe space”.

Osideko also shared insights on building professional relevance and online presence. She encouraged participants to be real, avoid pressure, and invest in personal development. She stated that people follow value, not popularity, and urged attendees to pursue skills, mentorship, and continuous learning.

The event featured keynote sessions and panel discussions with speakers including Dr Chizor Malize, Managing Director/CEO of FITC; Ayodele Solomon, Head of Innovation at Wema Bank; Chiamaka Ige, Lead Consultant and Strategist at Advance Consulting; and Dr Precious Oshideko, Vice President Operations at Arete-Zale Consulting, among others.

She is also a recipient of several accolades, including the Business Women’s Hub Outstanding Marketing Professional Award and the 2022 Royal African Leadership Forum Award.

On a recent episode of The Literary Bar on Plus TV Africa, branding expert Linda shared practical insights on branding for small businesses.

Speaking with host Chinedu Dibiah Nwagha, Linda broke down the meaning of branding and its importance, especially for entrepreneurs navigating today’s competitive markets.

The conversation started by revisiting the roots of branding. Linda explained that branding predates modern business and has always served one purpose—differentiation.

“Branding is what keeps you outstanding or differentiates A from B,” she said.

She emphasised that branding is more than logos or colour schemes. It encompasses how customers experience a business. From packaging to communication style, branding is about making a product or service memorable.

“Some brands have a tone in how they speak,” she noted. “Some banks are deliberate about the kind of people they hire. It’s all part of branding.”

A common misconception, Linda said, is that branding is expensive and out of reach for small businesses. “When you mention branding, the first thing many small business owners say is, ‘I don’t have money’,” she stated. “But people will buy from you because they trust you, know you, and can connect with you.”

She described that small business owners should see themselves as the first face of their brand. Something as basic as a professional WhatsApp profile photo can influence customer perception.

“People judge your business from the kind of picture you put on your WhatsApp,” she said. A well-written bio and company profile also help present the business owner and their venture as credible and goal-oriented.

“I’ve asked some to send a bio, and they ask, ‘What is a bio?’” she added.

Linda warned against over-reliance on social media platforms such as Instagram or Facebook, which can be unstable. A website gives control and allows for storing customer information, like emails and phone numbers. “If your page gets pulled down, you lose everything unless you have a website,” she explained.

She also stressed that choosing a simple and consistent business name across all platforms is crucial for discoverability and trust. Inconsistencies, such as spelling a name differently across channels, confuse potential customers and reduce visibility.

“Don’t give us a name that is ‘Linda Couture’ on Instagram and ‘Linda Kouture’ on Facebook. Nigerians will get confused,” she said.

The colours and logo of a business should reflect its service or product. Linda explained that certain industries require visual tones that match customer expectations. For example, a cake brand using dark colours could create the wrong impression.

“Imagine a cake brand using black as the main colour,” she pointed out. “It doesn’t communicate joy.”

She highlighted that packaging, customer service, and communication style form part of the brand experience. If those elements are not in harmony, customer trust is difficult to maintain. “If the content is not as good as the packaging, they’re not coming back,” she cautioned.

Addressing the issue of brand failure, Linda acknowledged that redemption is tough but possible. If a business has disappointed a customer, restitution may involve sending a replacement or offering a discount. “If everything went wrong, there’s no redemption. But if only one thing failed, you can fix it,” she said. She urged small business owners to apologise sincerely and take responsibility, ensuring that future interactions are improved.

Linda also commented on how business owners present themselves on social media. She recommended having a separate business page to avoid mixing personal views or conduct with the business brand.

“Your personal beliefs, posts, and associations influence how people perceive your business. Let your business page be about your business,” she advised.

She concluded the interview by encouraging entrepreneurs to treat their ventures seriously from the start.

“Think big from the start. Don’t run a side hustle like a side hustle. Run it like a business.”

The award is part of the 2025 edition of the West Africa Convergence Conference (WACC), which brings together stakeholders from the technology and policy sectors. Organised by Knowhow Media, publishers of IT Edge News.Africa, the event recognises individuals making key contributions to Nigeria’s digital transformation.

Ochugbua was honoured alongside public and private sector leaders who are playing strategic roles in innovation, policy development, and infrastructure within the digital space.

The conference also featured a keynote address delivered on behalf of the Governor of Benue State, Rev Fr Hyacinth Alia, by his deputy, Dr Sam Ode.

The address, titled “Redefining Nigeria’s Economic Future: Benue State and the Rise of the Digital Economy,” outlined the state’s approach to leveraging digital tools for development.

Governor Alia’s digital economy initiatives were acknowledged during the event. Since assuming office, his administration has prioritised the sector as a core component of his seven-point agenda.

“This recognition is not just a personal milestone—it validates our collective journey in Benue to build a future driven by innovation, inclusion, and digital opportunity,” the governor stated.

Reacting to the recognition, Linda Ochugbua expressed appreciation and reflected on the importance of digital inclusion and innovation:

“Being named one of the 50 Most Valuable Personalities in Nigeria’s Digital Economy is an incredible honour. It’s a reminder of the work ahead to make digital access more inclusive. This recognition is not mine alone; it reflects the dedication of my team and speaks to the power of collaboration.”

The “50 Most Valuable Personalities” (50MVPs) initiative aims to spotlight individuals contributing meaningfully to Nigeria’s evolving digital space. The awards also serve as a platform for reflection on ongoing challenges and new opportunities.

“This event provides a platform for dialogue, recognition, and strategic insight on shaping Nigeria’s digital future,” said Olusegun Oruame, vice chairman/CEO of Knowhow Media, during his welcome remarks.

The webinar was moderated by Funsho Anthony, the session featured professionals such as Linda Ochugbua, Esohe Igbinoba, Amirah Oyegoke and Abigail Semono, all of whom contributed based on personal and professional experience to address the realities that women face and the change necessary to shift the narrative.

While speaking during her keynote, Linda Ochugbua, Digital Sales Manager at BusinessDay  addressed the insidious barriers still afflicting numerous women in the workplace, she said.

“We’re battling out of date perceptions that connect masculinity with leadership,” she explained.

“From tone policing to discriminatory pay and biased feedback, the message all too often is be twice as good, and still you may not be selected”.

She emphasized the need for concrete reforms, pointing to various forms of harassment, including verbal abuse, hostile environments, and inappropriate jokes that are often ignored or normalized.

“It’s not enough to have policies on paper,” she stated. “They must be reviewed often and enforced with intention.”

Abigail Semono, a life coach, emphasized on the power of personal action in creating change. Looking back on her fight for a lactation room during her previous job, she stated, “What felt small at the moment prompted a larger transformation in how the company accommodated mothers. One insistent voice can make a tangible difference.”

Amirah Oyegoke, who is a product designer, addressed subtle exclusion in the workplace. “Discrimination is not always loud. It creeps in when you’re left out of key conversations or not selected for key projects. We must remain vigilant and speak up.”

Esohe Igbinoba, a venture builder, recounted unsettling experiences with improper investor behavior in relaxed business environments. “I’ve been asked to meet in hotel rooms for what were supposed to be business meetings,” she explained. “And if I refused such propositions, I was labeled ‘difficult.’ We must stand up for our dignity and say no without apology.

An audience member whose name is Ayodeji Osatuyi also addressed how being a Nigerian man, had coped with accent and race based prejudice in Canada.

He said  “You are faced with all forms of prejudice, based on your gender, your color, and your accent,” he also added that  “My approach has been to stay strategic: under-promise, over-deliver, and just keep moving forward.”

The conversation also explored how upbringing affects workplace dynamics. Eniola Anthony spoke of being raised to be self reliant and how that shaped her confidence. Yet, assertiveness still draws criticism. “You speak up and you’re called difficult,” added Linda, she also said silence won’t protect either.”

Confronting one of the most damning stereotypes, Obed Semono disproved that women emerged to the top through unscrupulous methods. “It’s a discrediting agenda used to undermine women’s hard work.” Abigail joined in, “Let your work do the talking. Be professional, set your boundaries, and most importantly, stand by fellow women” she added.

Throughout the session, the consensus was that workplaces do need to change, not just through formal policies but through building cultures in which discrimination is challenged and challenged actively, inclusive behavior can be achieved by continual training, and accountability comes through constant scrutiny. Building avenues for mentorship and promoting equal access to opportunity for women as well as men were also considered to be necessary steps toward building healthier, better balanced teams.

Lastly, Funsho Anthony emphasized the importance of shared responsibility. “We want men to be included in these conversations,” he said. “Change is accelerated when everybody is on board.”

This webinar was not just a conversation, it was a strong, decisive statement, women are no longer waiting to be invited to lead. They are already leading, and demanding that the systems supporting them catch up.

Among the standout participants was Linda Ochugbua, digital sales manager at BusinessDay, who contributed to key discussions and received an award for Outstanding Marketing Professional.

The event, themed “Accelerating Female Inclusion: How, Why and Now,” featured powerful speeches from industry leaders.

Mrs. Oluwatoyin Atanda, senior special assistant to the Governor of Lagos State on Establishments and Training, delivered the opening speech.

She said,

“Female inclusion in leadership, business, and society is no longer a question of if, but how fast we can close the gap.

This conference is more than a gathering—it is a launchpad for action. Each of us has a role to play in advancing this movement. Let’s stand together, take bold steps, and shape a future where no woman is left behind. The time for change is now.”

Ochugbua moderated the panel session “Female Inclusion: Empowering the Female CEO”

Speaking passionately to attendees, Linda Ochugbua said,

“Don’t just attend and leave, then go online to complain about lack of support. You may not realise the power in this room. I was once a little girl from the other side of the alley—today, I’m here because people helped me, and I’ve helped others. So, make it a goal to leave with at least 10 contacts. Help each other. Champion each other.”

Ochugbua stressed the importance of clear communication in small businesses, noting that what’s in a founder’s mind isn’t always known by employees. She advised business owners to set clear processes, systems, and communication standards—covering customer interactions and internal operations—so the business can run smoothly even when staff changes occur.

Other highlights included addresses from Hansatu Adegbite and Nnenna Jacob-Ogogo, who emphasised that female inclusion is an economic necessity.

Mrs. Imelda Usoro-Olaoye, Founder of Business Women Hub, reinforced the organisation’s commitment to empowering women through training, funding, and networking opportunities.

The conference also featured sessions on time management, wellness, and creativity in business, providing attendees with practical strategies for growth.

With a strong call to action, the event reinforced the urgency of advancing women’s leadership in Nigeria’s evolving economy.

The event, themed “Unlocking Synergies between Startups and Established Corporates,” took place at the Interswitch Innovation Hub in Lagos.

Bringing together stakeholders from the tech, fintech, and payments industries, including Interswitch alumni, the event fostered collaboration and partnerships within the ecosystem. Designed as a sustainable platform, the mixer connects startups with established businesses, encouraging idea-sharing and solution-driven engagements.

Adaobi Okerekeocha, chief innovation officer at Interswitch, emphasised the importance of collaboration in driving innovation within Africa’s tech ecosystem.

She stated,

“At Interswitch, we believe collaboration is the bedrock of innovation. As the tech and innovation landscape in Nigeria and across Africa continues to evolve, its immense and untapped potential calls for platforms like this to unlock new possibilities. Our Startup Mixer series represents a pivotal step toward building a vibrant community where startups and established corporates can exchange ideas, explore opportunities, and forge synergies that drive impactful solutions.”

The event featured panel discussions and networking sessions. A panel moderated by Akeem Hassan, technical adviser to the commissioner, Ministry of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Lagos State Government, addressed collaboration between startups and corporates.

Panellist Linda Ochugbua, digital sales manager at BusinessDay, shared key insights, shedding light on transitioning from an idea to a successful entity. She emphasised the importance of storytelling, marketing, legal registrations, and more.

“When seeking partnerships, it is crucial to position yourself in a way that adds value to the collaboration. Understand the needs of the larger organisation and align your solutions with those needs. At the same time, maintain your unique identity and ensure you are not overshadowed or sidelined in the process. Partnerships thrive when both parties bring something essential to the table,” she said.

Ochugbua also addressed a common hesitation among founders: waiting for funding to make their big move, even after crafting impressive pitch decks. She posed a reflective question: “If I were given 10% of the funding I’m seeking, what would I do with it?” She encouraged founders to begin by raising that 10% on their own.

She provided actionable advice for attracting the right talents while bootstrapping: start by building the vision yourself, focusing on foundational skills without complicating titles, and learning about the roles you need.

Engage like-minded individuals, even if they’re not seasoned professionals, and offer tangible compensation like stipends or equity. Focus on creating value by validating your idea with real users, and foster a positive, collaborative culture, whether on-site or remote.

Linda Ochugbua concluded by stressing the importance of discipline and organic growth. “Building something great takes time, effort, and resilience,” she noted.

The Startup Innovation Mixer successfully set the stage for impactful collaborations, reinforcing the role of partnerships in transforming Africa’s innovation landscape.

Emmanuel Olujobi, the founder, revealed this during the Hub’s annual SMEFest, themed “Building to Scale”, which brought together entrepreneurs and stakeholders to discuss strategies for growth and sustainability in the SME sector.

In her keynote address at the event, Dr Jumoke Oduwole, special adviser to the President on the Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC), outlined the government’s plans to support SMEs in 2024.

She highlighted several initiatives aimed at increasing access to finance, fostering entrepreneurship, and creating a business-friendly environment.

Linda Ochugbua, digital sales manager at BusinessDay Media, described SMEs as the foundation of Nigeria’s economy, stressing the importance of equipping them for growth.

“SMEs are the backbone of our economy. Supporting them means investing in Nigeria’s future. Jasper SME Hub has demonstrated a commitment to fostering innovation and collaboration, and we are proud to be part of this initiative. Through platforms like this, small businesses can access tools, mentorship, and market opportunities that will help them scale effectively,” she said.

Ochugbua also emphasised the critical role of digital adoption for businesses.

“Digital transformation is no longer optional in today’s economy. Entrepreneurs must learn to leverage technology to expand their reach, improve efficiency, and gain an edge in the market. Jasper SME Hub is providing the resources to make this shift possible, and I urge all SMEs to take advantage of these opportunities,” she added.

Olujobi highlighted the need for collaboration between the private sector and the government to strengthen the SME sector.

“Our goal is to equip entrepreneurs with the tools and knowledge they need to navigate challenges and scale their businesses sustainably. By working together, we can ensure that small businesses play a significant role in Nigeria’s economic growth,” he stated.

The event featured a Business Pitch Session, where emerging entrepreneurs presented innovative ideas to a panel of judges, competing for resources to advance their businesses.

SMEFest 2024 also offered business owners opportunities to share experiences, connect with investors, and gain practical insights through panel discussions.

Topics covered included funding strategies, business continuity, and leveraging technology for growth.