By Yusuf Mohammed
Today, we celebrate the birthday of Chief Dr.(Mrs) Maria Olateju Phillips, daughter of the illustrious late Ambassador Antonio Deinde Fernandez, a woman who has carved out her own path through sheer dedication and hard work.
When listing women who have broken barriers in fields traditionally dominated by men, Chief Dr. (Mrs) Olateju Phillips undoubtedly stands out.
As Chairman of Lasaco Assurance Plc, her visionary leadership has transformed organizations, driving growth and impactful change. Colleagues and industry insiders speak of her initiatives as game-changers efforts that have improved workplaces and inspired progress.
Beyond the corporate world, her political involvement has amplified women’s voices and reshaped their roles in public life. Chief Phillips is indeed an A-lister among women who’ve inspired others to aim higher and break ceilings.
In a 2021 interview with ThisDay newspaper, when asked how she balances a demanding professional life with motherhood, she replied: “A professional or a career woman has to be very focused and highly organized in both home and work affairs… The ability to manage both ends successfully must be consciously discerned; one should not suffer for the other… There are no shortcuts but work assiduously hard to excel and maintain the package of brilliancy, teamwork, and best behaviours amongst your peers and subordinates.”
Her educational journey is as impressive as her professional one. She holds an ACCA from Aston College of Commerce (now Aston University) and Huddersfield College (1973–1975). She further honed her executive skills at prestigious institutions like Wharton, Columbia Business School, and Harvard Business School. She completed her Articleship at the global accounting firm Peat Marwick, Cassleton Elliot & Co. (Ani, Ogunde & Co.).
Her career in Nigeria began at UAC of Nigeria Plc (1983–1992), where she rose to the position of Divisional Commercial Manager in the Property Division. Over the years, she has served on the boards of several prominent public and private institutions, including Keystone Bank, the Lagos State Lottery Board, Alma Beach Estate Limited, and Maridot Ventures Limited.
We at The Columnist NG join her family, friends, and admirers in wishing Chief Dr.(Mrs) Maria Olateju Phillips a very happy birthday and many more years filled with success, purpose, and good health.
