Sally Suleiman is a powerhouse humanitarian, media personality, and business strategist with over a decade of impact in oil & gas and media.
As the founder of The Isolycia Foundation, she’s transforming lives by bringing education to children in rural areas and empowering SMEs and job seekers across the country through Giveaway Nigeria,
Currently serving as the Special Adviser on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to the Executive Governor of Edo State, Sally is championing education, healthcare, gender equality, poverty alleviation, economic empowerment, and renewable energy.
A trailblazer in leadership and policy advocacy, she continues to drive social change with an unyielding commitment to impactful governance and a better future for all.
In this interview, she discusses the motivations behind her work, the challenges she’s faced, and her vision for a better, more inclusive future for Africa.
CA: Congratulations on your recent appointment as the Special Adviser on SDGs in Edo State. You are also a fierce advocate for women’s involvement in politics and governance. What is your vision for advancing women’s rights and sustainable development across Africa?
Suleiman: My vision is rooted in creating tangible, lasting opportunities for women to step into leadership roles and contribute meaningfully to the development of their communities. This means addressing and dismantling the structural barriers—be they social, economic, or cultural—that hinder women’s active participation in governance, business, and education. In Edo State, my focus is on enacting policies that guarantee women access to quality education, healthcare, and economic empowerment. Empowering women is not just a moral imperative—it’s an essential driver of sustainable development. When women succeed, entire societies prosper. CA: What first inspired your passion for governance and leadership, and how has that motivation evolved throughout your career?
Suleiman: My interest in governance sprouted from an early realization that lasting change is possible when those in positions of power are intentional about making an impact. Over the years, I’ve witnessed firsthand how policies—good or bad—directly shape the lives of individuals and communities. My passion has deepened through personal experiences and interactions with people who struggle for the basic necessities of life. I’ve come to understand that having the power to influence policy decisions provides a platform to create meaningful change—and that realization fuels my drive every day.
CA: You’re widely recognized for your tireless advocacy. What keeps you motivated, and how do you define success in your work?
Suleiman: For me, it’s all about impact. Success isn’t just about numbers or reports—it’s about real-world transformation. Whether it’s ensuring that a young girl can access education, a community benefits from a sustainable development initiative, or a policy is amended to promote inclusivity, those are the moments that sustain my passion. I measure success by the tangible differences I see in people’s lives. And I constantly remind myself that no step is too small—every action that moves us forward is a victory.
CA: What has been a defining moment or challenge in your journey, and how did you overcome it?
Suleiman: One of the most challenging periods I faced was dealing with fibroids for nine years, eventually undergoing surgery. It was physically and emotionally draining, compounded by the fear of surgery and the toll it took on my health. This experience taught me resilience, the importance of self-care, and the need for accessible healthcare systems—especially for women in dire need of treatment. It deepened my commitment to advocating for a more robust healthcare system, where women’s health concerns are prioritized.
CA: As one of Forbes’ Inspirational Women, your work inspires many. How has your African heritage shaped your leadership approach?
Suleiman: Growing up in Africa, I was immersed in a culture that emphasizes community and collective responsibility. The idea of coming together to solve problems has profoundly shaped my leadership philosophy. I believe leadership is about service—ensuring that no one is left behind. My upbringing has taught me to be strategic, to work tirelessly, and to face challenges head-on with confidence. Leadership, for me, is about lifting others up and making sure that everyone has a seat at the table.
CA: What advice would you give to young African women embarking on their own journeys? What challenges might they face, and how can they overcome them?
Suleiman: My advice is simple: believe in yourself. The road ahead will not be easy. There will be challenges—stereotypes, resistance, and moments of doubt. But with resilience, preparation, and a solid support network, young women can overcome these hurdles. Surround yourself with people who uplift you, seek out knowledge, and don’t shy away from stepping into spaces where your voice can be heard. Understand that failure is part of the journey—learn from it, and continue to move forward.
CA: What initiatives are you currently working on to promote sustainable development and women’s empowerment? How do you envision them impacting the community?
Suleiman: ’m currently focused on strengthening Edo State’s SDG framework, especially in the areas of education, healthcare, and economic empowerment. One of our flagship projects is partnering with international organizations to improve educational facilities and provide skill-based training for women and youth. We are also developing sustainable agriculture programs to empower women with the resources they need to become financially independent and self-sufficient. Our ultimate goal is to ensure that these initiatives create a long-term, sustainable impact for the community—not just temporary fixes.
CA: Reflecting on your career, what partnerships have been instrumental in shaping your leadership?** Sleiman: Beyond formal partnerships, the relationships I’ve built along the way have been key to my growth. I’ve been fortunate to have mentors, colleagues, and friends who believed in me and helped open doors I never imagined were possible. These connections have reinforced the importance of community, mentorship, and the support systems that help us navigate leadership challenges. A strong network is invaluable.
CA: How do you envision African women leaders competing or collaborating on the global stage? What opportunities and challenges do you foresee, and how can they prepare?**
Suleiman: African women are already making waves on the global stage, but there is still much to be done. The challenges include systemic biases, limited access to resources, and cultural expectations that sometimes undermine women’s leadership. However, the opportunities are boundless—technology, entrepreneurship, and advocacy for policy change are opening up new doors. To succeed globally, we must build strong, supportive networks, continue to invest in our education, and be deliberate in positioning ourselves for leadership roles.
CA: What’s one key lesson you’ve learned from failure, and how has it influenced your approach to leadership and innovation?
Suleiman: Failure, for me, is not the end—it’s a redirection. I’ve had moments where things didn’t go according to plan, but each setback has taught me something valuable. Whether it’s learning to be more adaptable or finding innovative solutions to problems, failure has refined my approach. It has instilled in me the importance of resilience, the ability to reassess and pivot when necessary, and the mindset that growth often comes from overcoming challenges.
Salamatu Sally Suleiman’s journey stands as a beacon of resilience, leadership, and social advocacy.
Through her work in governance and sustainable development, she continues to forge pathways for women and communities to thrive, shaping a future where progress and inclusivity walk hand in hand.
