A Development-Focused Amazon Putting Vision to Work at Ingentia Energies

Olajumoke Ajayi stands tall as a beacon of excellence among Nigerian women in the oil and gas sector and her uncommon accomplishments have redefined the paradigm, setting a lofty benchmark for aspiring professionals eager to leave an indelible mark on their careers. Committed to sustaining her reputation with integrity and professionalism, her visionary leadership and remarkable success have distilled into a life of purpose, inspiring a new generation of African women with her unwavering dedication and unbridled passion.

Educated at St. Louis Grammer School Akure and at the Federal University of Technology, Akure, and the University of Lagos, where she acquired her Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Applied Geophysics, Olajumoke’s career began with Mobil Producing Nigeria Unlimited (ExxonMobil), where she garnered her first industry experience. Since then, she has held leadership roles across various organizations, including serving as Managing Director at Asharami Energy Ltd, the upstream arm of Sahara Group, where she led the team to first oil within record time. She has also worked with Centrica Resources Nigeria Ltd (British Gas), Peak Petroleum Limited, and Degeconek Consulting.

Currently, she is the Managing Director/CEO of Ingentia Energies Limited, operator of PPL 202; Egbolom Field, which has also reached first oil under her leadership. She is the 3rd female President-elect of the Nigerian Association of Petroleum Explorationists (NAPE) since 1975. She has actively contributed to organizations like SheCan Nigeria as a board member and serves as a member on the Governing Council of Elizade University.

Recognized by The Guardian, Olajumoke Ajayi provided insights on her professional journey, the Nigerian oil and gas sector, and Ingentia Energies’ initiatives, among other issues.

Factors that Shaped My Career Choice
From the beginning, I’ve been aware of God’s presence in my life, guiding me through challenges. My passion for science, particularly geophysics, was something I discovered early on. Growing up in a family of educators, I valued knowledge and problem-solving, leading me to explore engineering and technology careers.

I was first drawn to civil engineering for its incredible structures, like bridges over water, and then to computer science. But Geophysics fascinated me the most because it connects science, technology, and real-world applications.

Pursuing geophysics wasn’t without challenges. My parents questioned why I chose a male-dominated field, but that only fueled my determination. I’ve always believed passion and skill—not gender—should define a career, and I was determined to forge my own path in a field that excites and challenges me.

Lessons Learned Along the Way
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is the importance of “doing the work”. I knew that to create a better future, I had to excel in my studies, so I committed to it and earned a second-class upper degree. Another critical lesson is the power of self-confidence and determination. Confidence can break through barriers—whether financial, social, or gender-related. When paired with determination, it becomes a driving force for success.

I wasn’t always confident. As a child, I was timid, influenced by a strict upbringing that emphasized discipline, but that experience also taught me independence. I learned not to seek validation but to set my own goals and work toward them. Over time, this mindset helped me step into leadership roles in my career, and in 2014/2015, I became the first female Vice President of NAPE. Growing up, I saw firsthand what it meant to strive for a better life and that experience instilled in me a relentless drive for excellence, pushing me to never settle for less than I’m capable of achieving.

The Future of Nigeria’s Energy Landscape and Ingentia Energies’ Initiatives
The key to addressing the challenges associated with energy resources lies in its effective management. By embracing strategies like the net-zero carbon emissions goal and the zero gas flare policy outlined in the Petroleum Industry Act, we can make significant impacts in reducing the negative effects it has on the environment.

Oil and gas are not going anywhere anytime soon. Many of the products we use daily, plastics, beauty products, and even medicines, are by-products of petrochemicals. At Ingentia Energies, we understand the importance of balancing energy needs with sustainability. That’s why we are proud to be known as Ingentia Energies, not just Ingentia Oil and Gas. We recognize the critical role this balance plays, and our ultimate goal is to provide lasting value through sustainable energy development.

Balancing Career and Family
Balancing career and family requires intentionality. As a wife and mother, I prioritise being present for my family while dedicating time to my career. Time management is key: I set clear boundaries, delegate effectively, and make the most of my schedule. My husband and I discussed our goals and aspirations before marriage, ensuring we were on the same page. He supported my career ambitions, recognizing the benefits of a woman having a fulfilling profession.

Advice for Young Women and Girls
My advice is simple: Believe in yourself, trust in God’s plan, and never let circumstances or doubts define your future. With faith and perseverance, you can achieve greatness. No industry is limited to one gender; claim your space and make a lasting impact. I’ve learned that confidence is a powerful tool. Be determined, work hard, and stay focused. Success requires effort, resilience, and balance. Surround yourself with supportive people, stay curious, and keep learning.