Mrs. Abimbola Adekoya currently serves as Director of Finance and Business Support at Lagos Continental Hotel, where she leads financial strategy and operational performance. In commemoration of this year’s International Women’s Day, Abimbola speaks about the transformative power of lifting others and lessons from her own journey navigating leadership spaces, among other issues. Charles Ajunwa brings excerpts:
How significant is this year’s International Women’s Day to you?
The 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 affect the women at work and at home?
At work and at home, 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 organisation who will share their leadership journeys and industry insights. We organise 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.
What is the gender equality ratio and how many women are in top management positions in the group?
Currently, women make up 35 per cent 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 step into challenging roles even when they are not 100 per cent certain. Growth often happens in motion. Confidence is built in the doing.
More mentorship, More executive training, More sponsorship at decision making tables. That is how change accelerates.
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 are mutual respect and shared commitment to excellence. The support we receive enables us to deliver results and sustain momentum.
Leave a comment