Morenike Ajayi MBE B.Sc, MBA, FCPFA, is the Director of Corporate Services at Gravesend Churches Housing Association and founder of Career Nuggets. Previously, Morenike held the position of Commercial and Finance Director at the London Pensions Fund Authority, overseeing a £6bn pension fund. In addition, Morenike has taken on key roles at PwC, Transport for London and various housing associations and local authorities. She received an MBE in the Queen’s New Year’s Honours List 2022. AFRICAN VOICE reports.
1. Why did you relocate to the UK?
I was born in the UK but returned after my NYSC. I wanted to seek opportunities abroad.
2. How long did it take you to settle in the UK and what were the challenges?
It took me 9 months to fully settle back in the UK. What was your first job in the UK – My first job was as an administrative assistant with the civil service and what is your current vocation? I’m an Accountant- Director of corporate services for a social housing provider
3. For how long have you been living in the UK?
42 years in total. I only spent a 11 years in Nigeria.
4. What made you decide not to return to your country of origin?
More opportunities here in the UK for me.
5. What is the one thing you missed about home?
I miss the community spirit and the organic food.
6. What are the changes you would want to see in your country of origin?
I would like to see better security, better distribution of resources, job opportunities
Opportunities for entrepreneurs. Equal access to basic amenities for all… electricity, water, healthcare and transportation and Reduced cost of living
7. What has been your proudest contribution to the British society?
Empowering members of the black community in the area of career advancement. I have supported over 3,000 people over the last 10 years via my social enterprise called Career Nuggets. The late Queen recognised my efforts and rewarded me with the Award of Member of the British Empire (MBE).
8. Are you optimistic on the political situation in your country of origin?
I believe things will improve by God’s grace.
9. If you have to change anything in your country of origin, what would that be?
People should be recognised and rewarded for handwork and not who you know.
10. What do you most admire in your country of origin?
The people
11. And what do dislike most?
Dishonesty
12. What is your opinion on the mass migration out of Africa (Japa Syndrome), the lack of job opportunities, security and good healthcare and what do you think will improve the economy of your country of origin?
Addressing the issues mentioned in question 6 above
13. How can those in the diaspora help to improve the image of your country of origin?
By investing and returning back to the country when the right building blocks are in place.
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