Why Nigeria’s Businesses Must Leverage Technology For Growth

Ebisindor Awala, an accomplished pharmacist, business strategist, and data analytics expert, in this interview with MOHAMMED SHOSANYA, shares insights on leadership, interdisciplinary collaboration, and the future of healthcare and business in the digital age. Excerpts:

Your career spans multiple fields, from pharmacy to business and data sci­ence. What inspired you to take such an interdisciplinary path?

I’ve always been fascinated by how different disciplines intersect to create solutions.

In pharmacy, I saw how busi­ness strategy impacts drug supply chains, and in business, I realized that data analytics is the backbone of innovation.

My journey has been driven by a passion for problem-solving be­cause I wanted to bring efficiency, precision, and strategic growth to every sector I worked in. That’s why I pursued advanced education in healthcare management, business strategy, and data analytics.

The future belongs to profession­als who can adapt and apply knowl­edge across domains, and I believe that healthcare, business, and tech­nology must work together to create lasting impact.

What are the biggest challenges facing healthcare systems today, and how can technology help solve them?

The three biggest challenges are inefficient healthcare delivery sys­tems because many hospitals and pharmacies still rely on outdated processes, leading to delays and errors.

Solution to AI-driven automation and data analytics can optimize workflow, reduce medical errors, and improve patient outcomes.

Healthcare Affordability and Ac­cess – High costs limit access to es­sential medications and treatments.

Solution to Implementing block­chain for transparent pricing and predictive modeling can improve supply chain efficiency and reduce costs.

Data-Driven Decision-Making – Healthcare providers often struggle with unstructured data, leading to inefficiencies in patient manage­ment.

Solution to Advanced data ana­lytics and cloud-based health infor­matics can enable real-time patient monitoring, risk assessment, and resource optimization.

Technology is not just a tool but a necessity in the future of health­care. Organizations that embrace digital transformation will provide better patient outcomes, cost-ef­fective solutions, and sustainable healthcare models.

You have extensive experience in business strategy and financial analyt­ics. How can businesses in emerging markets, like Nigeria, leverage data for growth?

Data is the new currency of busi­ness. In emerging markets, compa­nies can use data analytics to pre­dict consumer trends and tailor products to market demands.

Optimise supply chains by identi­fying inefficiencies and improving resource allocation.

Enhance financial planning by analyzing cash flow patterns and investment risks. For instance, in the pharmaceutical sector, predic­tive analytics can help prevent drug shortages, ensuring that life-saving medications are always available.

Similarly, in retail, AI-driven data can help businesses anticipate con­sumer demand, reducing waste and increasing profitability.

Companies that embrace da­ta-driven decision-making will gain a competitive edge, especially in high-growth economies like Ni­geria.

What role does leadership and mentor­ship play in career success, and how do you give back to aspiring profession­als?

Leadership is not just about ex­pertise—it’s about vision, adapt­ability, and empowering others. Throughout my career, I’ve bene­fited from mentors who guided me, and I strongly believe in paying it forward.

I actively mentor young profes­sionals in pharmacy, business, and data science, helping them navigate career transitions and skill devel­opment.

Additionally, I engage in indus­try conferences, leadership sum­mits, and educational workshops to bridge the knowledge gap between academia and industry.

Mentorship is a two-way street— as much as I guide others, I also learn from the next generation.

Their fresh perspectives inspire innovation, and I see mentorship as a key driver for collective success.

You have worked in the UK, the US, and Nigeria. How do business and health­care practices differ across these regions?

Every region has unique strengths and challenges

United States is advanced in tech­nology and data-driven healthcare, with strong research and innova­tion ecosystems.

United Kingdom is highly struc­tured pharmaceutical policies, pri­oritising evidence-based healthcare models.

Nigeria is a dynamic and rapidly evolving market, with vast oppor­tunities for digital transformation and business scalability.

In emerging markets like Nige­ria, the focus should be on technol­ogy adoption, regulatory reforms, and skill development to compete globally.

My global exposure has given me a well-rounded perspective, allow­ing me to combine the best practic­es from different markets to create sustainable solutions.

Women remain underrepresented in leadership positions across various industries. What advice would you give to women aspiring to leadership roles?

My advice to women in leadership is to be confident in your expertise because women often feel the need to “prove themselves” more than their male counterparts. Own your skills and experience.

Embrace continuous learning by investing in yourself through ad­vanced education, mentorship, and networking.

Take Up Space and Speak Up of your voice and ideas deserve to be heard—don’t shy away from leader­ship opportunities.

I also advocate for inclusive leadership structures where wom­en have equal access to executive roles, decision-making positions, and growth opportunities.

Organizations that embrace gen­der diversity perform better, and I actively mentor young women look­ing to break barriers in business, healthcare, and technology.

You’ve received multiple awards, including the Best Graduating Student in Pharmacy and the Graves School of Business Award. How do you maintain such high standards of excellence?

Excellence is a habit, not an event. My approach is built on com­mitment to Continuous Improve­ment because I am always learning, whether through research, certifi­cations, or industry engagement.

Work ethic and strategic think­ing because Success isn’t just about hard work; it’s about working smart and making strategic choices.

Adaptability and Resilience be­cause challenges are inevitable, but I focus on solutions, innovation, and staying ahead industry trends.

Success isn’t about individual achievements; it’s about creating impact, inspiring others, and driv­ing long-term growth.