Uju Paulcy’s journey underscores the power of determination, vision and faith. Breaking the stereotype that those born into comfort lack drive, Uju’s story is one of hard work, strategic thinking and a deep commitment to Africa’s economic development.
Born into a family of modest means, Uju enjoyed a childhood marked by curiosity and a thirst for knowledge. This early exposure broadened her horizons and inspired a deep-rooted ambition to contribute to Africa’s economic growth. Today, Uju stands at the forefront of efforts to build a stronger and more prosperous continent. But Uju’s trajectory didn’t take off until after university.
During her NYSC stint, Uju aspired to join the Ministry of Trade and Commerce, driven by a natural inclination towards business development. “I remember telling my dad that I wanted to serve in the Ministry of Trade and Commerce, which is now the Ministry of Trade and Investment,” she recounted.
Although she wasn’t exactly impressed with the state of things at the ministry, Uju soon found the Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission, a department with a better outlook. She hoped that it would match her entrepreneurial flair and allow her to prove her mettle. “Sadly, I was made a file officer at the policy advocacy department,” she said. “In the process of serving in that office, I got to understand the NIPC, Nigeria.”
Despite the initial setbacks, Uju was determined to make the most of her circumstances. She immersed herself in the work, gaining a deeper understanding of the challenges facing Nigeria’s economy. “Doing all of this, I found that the problem we face in our economy was not just a Nigerian thing but an African issue,” she said. “So, I started with the energy, oil and gas sector because it is the present economic driver in Nigeria.” This newfound focus led Uju to establish INVETA Group, a consultancy firm working at the intersection of project finance, international trade and investment across Africa.
INVETA, short for Invest and Trade Africa, focusses on drawing local and foreign investors to the economic potential of African nations. Through INVETA, Uju leverages more than a decade of experience in the oil and gas sector, establishing herself as a leading expert and trusted advisor to governments and corporations alike.
But Uju’s work encompasses more than just economic development; it’s also about changing the narrative around Africa. “We realised that Western media wasn’t telling our story the way it needed to be told,” she said. “There was a need to bridge that gap.
In response, Uju launched a TV programme that explores macroeconomic policies and projects shaping Africa. This platform has allowed her to engage with stakeholders across the global energy sector, highlighting opportunities and showcasing the potential of the African continent. Her unwavering commitment has led to significant milestones, including moderating panel sessions for the African Petroleum Producers Organisation and collaborating with the African Energy Chamber. She’s also facilitating a major Japanese fund to support large-scale projects in Africa, a testament to her influence and reach.
“We aim to attract both local and foreign investment by showcasing the economic potential of various African nations,” she emphasised.
Central to Uju’s philosophy is a belief in the power of human capital. “I will say the primary resource we have today is the people. If we don’t look at the people, it will affect our resource development. This is one of the problems we have seen in years,” she remarked. She argued that revamping Africa’s educational system to suit its unique needs, with emphasis on practical knowledge and job creation, will help achieve this. She also stresses the importance of harnessing Africa’s abundant resources.
“I honestly don’t have an outlook of what Africa will look like because it cannot be easily predicted. I am hopeful that anything is possible in the right direction. I hope to see an Africa where there is good governance, and the right kind of leaders take up positions for the right situations.”
Uju’s leadership extends to her commitment to gender equality. “I’ve never had gender challenges because I have never had a gender mindset,” she said. She ensures equal opportunities for women within her organisation and believes in empowering women through employment and leadership roles.
Uju’s journey has not been without hurdles. She acknowledged the challenges of navigating the Nigerian business climate and securing funding. However, her unwavering determination and focus on progress have propelled her forward.
Despite the challenges of navigating Nigeria’s complex business environment and securing funding, Uju’s determination has seen her through. She highlights the importance of maintaining a Christ-like mindset, which she believes offers clarity and purpose in decision-making. “I would advise young ones to build a Christ-like mentality,” she said. “Your perspective will be clearer, and your intuitions sharper. When life becomes clearer through the lens of the author of life Himself, you are certain of navigating life.”
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Uju is a dedicated Christian, a wife, and the mother of two. She attributes her success to her faith and strives to live a life that reflects her faith and beliefs. “I would love to be remembered for someone who loves God and that God loves back,” she said. “Every other thing is just having a human experience.”
Uju Paulcy’s journey is a testament to determination, vision, and faith. Born into modest means, Uju’s early curiosity and ambition led her to contribute significantly to Africa's economic development. Despite initial challenges at the Ministry of Trade and Commerce during her NYSC, she found her stride at the Nigerian Investment Promotion Commission, deepening her understanding of Nigeria’s economic hurdles.
Uju's focus on the energy, oil, and gas sector paved the way for her to establish INVETA Group, a consultancy aimed at attracting investment to Africa. Beyond consultancy, she launched a TV program to shift the narrative about Africa, showcasing its economic potential and influencing global stakeholders. Her efforts have led to significant milestones, including collaborations with major organizations and attracting foreign investment.
Central to her philosophy is the development of human capital, urging for a revamped educational system and good governance. Uju also champions gender equality, providing equal opportunities within her organization. Despite the challenges faced in Nigeria's business environment, her faith and Christ-like mindset have been her guides, helping her navigate through adversities with clarity and purpose. Uju is also dedicated to her faith, family, and strives to be remembered for her love for God.
