‘I love giving people a sense of identity’

Adebo Onabowale was born in Ibadan on May 21, 1971, into a family of six. She is the only female child of the family. Although she hails from Ogun State, she grew up in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital. The mother of two shared her story with Tambari. Educational background I went to All Saints […]

Adebo Onabowale was born in Ibadan on May 21, 1971, into a family of six. She is the only female child of the family. Although she hails from Ogun State, she grew up in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital. The mother of two shared her story with Tambari.

Educational background

I went to All Saints Primary School, Jericho and proceeded to Federal Government College, Oyo, but switched to International School, Ibadan (ISI) half way. I got my bachelors degree in Mathematics at the University of Ibadan.

Career background

I did the mandatory National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) programme at Afribank Nigeria Ltd and my career kicked off at a firm of chartered accountants, Z. OOsos Anya and Co, in Ibadan. Ilater moved to Lagos when I got married. On getting to Lagos, I moved to Oyelami, Soeatan, Adeleke and Co (OSA), now Baker Tilley and Co, which is also a firm of chartered accountants. Since then I’ve worked in HR and outsourcing business at Integrated Service Limited (ICS) Ltd & XL Management Services, before heading up In sourcing Limited, a subsidiary of First Bank. I am now the founder/chief executive officer of TOKA Business Advisory Services Limited, providing consulting services to clients in various fields, from small and medium enterprises to large firms.

Challenges faced in the course of your career

Situations where your supervisors feel threatened or intimidated because your ideas were more superior to theirs, situations where your ideas or solutions are going to move establishment or people from their comfort zones, working with layered back team/individuals while some don’t put flexible policies on staff are great challenges. There’s also the issue of people not wanting to improve on themselves and just – wanting to be an average kind of person.

What was growing up like?

Growing up was fun. We grew up in neighborhood where everyone looked out for each other. I grew up with my brothers and uncles. It was a time where we had several parents who could discipline you if you were not in order. There was the fear of any one of your parents’ friends seeing you doing wrong. They would treat you like their child and scold you if you were going astray. And you would pray that they didn’t report you to your biological parents because you would be punished severely. It was a time of true friendship and there was no basis for envying among your peers. We all saw ourselves as one – no ethic differences, no discrimination.

Life lessons

Live a purposeful and positive life. Be yourself, love yourself and be truthful to yourself. Don’t give up on any challenge. Impossibility is not on my agenda. Put a smile on anybody’s face if you have the opportunity. Make yourself happy.

Fond childhood memories

There were no dolls for me; I was a real tomboy. I was always looking forward to riding my red chopper bicycle from my house in old Bodija to Kongi in Ibadan after evening lessons, as well as going to play with friends. There was the fun of climbing almond or mango trees and plucking fruits and mangoes for everyone, including the boys. Then going to swim at either the Nigeria Tobacco Company (NTC) swimming pool or the Ibadan Recreation Club during the weekend with my family and friends, using catapults to chase lizards in our compound, always participating in sports: 100m, 4*100m, 800m and cross-country race, as well as bonding time with my siblings and family on the balcony of our house most evenings.

What is the most rewarding part of your career?

Empowering people, giving people a sense of belonging, bringing out the potentials and the best in people. Also appreciating, celebrating and rewarding people for doing well.

What were your aspirations growing up?

I had so many, including wanting to be a doctor or an accountant. But as I got older, my parents and I identified my passion and I followed it.

I motivate and inspire people by bringing solutions to issues. I’m passionate about the youth getting their foundation rights and impacting people, especially the youth, by guiding them on the right path, believing in themselves and bringing out the best in them. I love giving people an identity.

Joys of motherhood

God has been faithful to me. I’ve been blessed with kids that are compassionate and are identifying and achieving their purposes in life.

How did you meet your husband?

I met my late husband during my NYSC when I was going for my CDS in Victoria Island.

What’s your most cherished attribute of his?

His respect, ability to give at freewill and being able to pull people together. Also, his passion for music and nature.

Top 5 things on your wish list

To fulfil God’s purpose and destiny; impact life positively by bringing solutions to issues or situation;travel round the world and enjoy and see the beauty of life and creation;guide and assist my children to fulfil God’s purpose and destiny in their live; enjoy my life in peace, love and harmony.

Favourite kind of music on replay

I enjoy listening to Luther Vandross, Anita Baker and Whitney Houston.

First app you check in the morning/bedtime?

WhatsApp, mails and text messages.

Favourite fashion items

Bags and shoes.

Flats or heels?

Both; it depends on the occasion and my mood.

What wouldn’t you be caught wearing?

Too much make up.

Best travel destination and why?

Miami, Florida, because of the beauty of the beach, the community and numerous good times spent with close family and friends.

How do you relax?

By going to the cinema, watching films and travelling.

What is your favourite quote or saying?

A saying by me,“Be guided seriously.” Then, “Always remember that there are two kinds of people in the world – realists and dreamers: The realists know where they are going, the dreamers have already been there,’’ by Robert Oren.

Favourite food

Fried plantain.

Your definition of style

Simple and elegant.

Favourite fashion designer

I don’t really have one.

Favourite perfume, designer bag and shoes

J’adore by Dior. For bags, I like any good structured leather bag. For shoes, it is Russell and Bromley.

Mum’s advice that stuck with you over the years

Believe in yourself and you can do whatever you set your mind to.

Favourite sport, colour, car and weather

For sports, I like football, athletics and swimming. I like dark colours. For cars, I like the Toyota brand, and my favourite weather is during the spring season.

Beauty routine

I don’t wear too much makeup, but if I do, I clean it off before getting into bed. I also drink lots and lots of water and get my 7-8 hours of sleep.

Looking back, what would you tell a younger you?

Be yourself, identify your passion and run with it, be diligent with work and always listen to your inner mind.

What advice do you have for women?

This is your time and season. Support yourselves, listen to your inner mind, rise up and shine.