Bola Shagaya facts for kids

Hajia Bola Muinat Shagaya is a very successful Nigerian businesswoman. She was born on October 10, 1959. She is known for being one of the richest women in Africa. Bola Shagaya is the founder and CEO of Bolmus Group International. This is a big company that works in many different areas. These include real estate, oil and gas, banking, and even photography.

Early Life and Education

Bola Muinat Shagaya was born in her hometown of Ilorin, Nigeria. Her mother's name was Saadat Bakini. Bola Shagaya went to Queens School in Ilorin for her secondary education. After that, she continued her studies at Ahmadu Bello University in Zaria. She also attended Armstrong College in California, USA. There, she studied important subjects like economics and accountancy.

Starting Her Business Journey

Bola Shagaya began her career working in the audit department of the Central Bank of Nigeria. This department checks financial records. In 1983, she decided to start her own businesses. Her first business was importing and selling photographic materials. She was the one who brought the Konica brand of camera supplies to Nigeria and other West African countries.

Growing Her Business Empire

Today, Bola Shagaya is also the managing director of Practoil Limited. This company is one of the biggest in Nigeria for importing and selling base oil. Base oil is used to make lubricants for machines. Her businesses also include many investments in real estate. This means she owns properties in big cities across Nigeria. Her companies employ more than 300 people.

She is also a member of the board of directors for Unity Bank plc. A board of directors helps guide a company. She has been on this board for over eight years. Bola Shagaya is also a supporter of the Fashion Designers Association of Nigeria (FADAN). This shows her interest in fashion.

Awards and Recognition

In July 2010, Bola Shagaya received a special award. She was made a Member of the Order of the Niger (MON). This is a high honor given by the Nigerian government. It was awarded to her by the former President of Nigeria, Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan. This award recognizes people who have made important contributions to the country.

Family Life

Bola Shagaya is married to Alhaji Shagaya. He is a successful transport businessman from Kwara State. They have six children together. Their names are Sherif, Hakeem, Deeja, Naieema, Amaya Roberts, and Adeena Roberts Shagaya. Her children live in different parts of the world. Many of them are helping to grow the family's real estate businesses in Europe and the United States. They also have smaller business interests in Asia and Australia.