Unilever Nigeria Plc has appointed Adenike Ogunlesi as an Independent Non-Executive Director. The fashion entrepreneur, best known for founding Ruff ‘n’ Tumble, joins the board effective March 24, 2025.
A filing on the Nigerian Exchange (NGX) confirmed the development, adding a new dimension to the company’s governance. Ogunlesi, a smart mind in Nigeria’s fashion and retail industry, has built a reputation for innovation and excellence over the past three decades.
She is the driving force behind Gatimo Limited, the parent company of Ruff ‘n’ Tumble, which has made a statement in children’s fashion across Nigeria. Under her leadership, the company became one of the country’s most recognisable brands, producing over 1,500 garments daily and doing new things in local manufacturing.
Beyond fashion, she has always supported women entrepreneurs. As the Founding President of the Network of Entrepreneurial Women (NNEW), she provides mentorship and funding opportunities, creating a strong platform for female-led businesses.
She also holds board positions across multiple industries, including Lafarge Holcim Plc, Enterprise Development Centre at Lagos Business School, and Garment and Accessories Manufacturers of Nigeria (GAMAN).
Through these roles, she has been an advocate for industrial growth, policy reforms, and ethical business practices.
Unilever Nigeria’s board are confident in Adenike Ogunlesi and her ability to contribute to the company’s vision. In an official statement, the company welcomed her to the board and wished her success in her new role.
With a background in corporate governance, strategic leadership, and retail management, Ogunlesi brings great experience from top institutions such as IE Business School, Lagos Business School, and the Gordon Institute of Business Science.
She is also a sought-after keynote speaker, a certified Family and Life Systems Coach, and an expert in Neuro-Linguistic Programming, all of which add depth to her leadership style.
Following Ogunlesi’s appointment, Unilever Nigeria’s board now consists of:
- Bolaji Balogun – Chairman / Independent Non-Executive Director
- Tobi Adeniyi – Managing Director
- Michael Ikpoki – Independent Non-Executive Director
- Ben Langat – Non-Executive Director
- Chika Nwobi – Non-Executive Director
- Ngozi Edozien – Independent Non-Executive Director
- Umma Yusuf Aboki – Independent Non-Executive Director
- Adenike Ogunlesi – Independent Non-Executive Director
- Folake Ogundipe – Executive Director
- Obinna Emenyonu – Executive Director
Meanwhile, Unilever Nigeria’s unaudited financial report for the twelve months ending December 31, 2024, showed commendable growth. The company recorded a turnover of ₦149.8 billion, a 44% increase from ₦103.9 billion in 2023. Gross profit also surged by 75%, reaching ₦55.7 billion compared to ₦31.9 billion in the previous year.
Commenting on the results, Tobi Adeniyi, managing director stated: “Our year-on-year sustained growth trajectory is a testament to our commitment to serving consumers with our best brands to meet their daily needs.”
