Meet the CEO

Ajoke Akinola

CBCM, Mpmc, MBA · Founder / CEO, Pleasant Jay Events

Ajoke Akinola, Founder and CEO of Pleasant Jay Events

Ajoke Akinola is a visionary entrepreneur, business strategist, certified business coach, author, mentor and one of Nigeria’s respected event management professionals. As the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Pleasant Jay Events, she has spent over sixteen years building a brand renowned for delivering exceptional event management, event design and unforgettable guest experiences.

Driven by a passion for excellence and innovation, Ajoke has successfully led the planning and execution of corporate events, conferences, weddings, milestone celebrations, government functions, faith-based gatherings and high-profile social events. Her ability to seamlessly combine strategic planning, creative design, operational excellence and impeccable execution has positioned Pleasant Jay Events as a trusted partner for discerning clients seeking premium event experiences.

Beyond event management, Ajoke is the Principal Partner and Managing Director of Ajoke Akinola Consults, where she provides business coaching, consulting and capacity development services for entrepreneurs and growing businesses. Through her work, she has empowered numerous business owners with practical strategies for sustainable growth, operational excellence, profitability and leadership.

Ajoke firmly believes that successful events are not simply organised — they are intentionally designed to communicate purpose, strengthen relationships and create memorable experiences. This philosophy has become the foundation upon which Pleasant Jay Events continues to serve both corporate organisations and private clients.

A lifelong learner committed to personal and professional development, Ajoke holds several professional certifications and is currently completing her Master of Business Administration (MBA) with specialisation in Entrepreneurship and Operations Management at the University of Ibadan School of Business. Her academic training complements her practical industry experience, enabling her to bridge creativity with sound business strategy and operational efficiency.

As a certified business coach and mentor, Ajoke is deeply passionate about raising the next generation of entrepreneurs and event professionals. Through coaching, speaking engagements, workshops and the Pleasant Jay Academy, she equips aspiring event planners, event designers and business owners with the knowledge, confidence and systems required to build sustainable businesses.

Her leadership philosophy is anchored on integrity, service, excellence, innovation and continuous improvement. Guided by her Christian faith, she believes that business should create value, transform lives and positively impact communities.

Today, Ajoke continues to champion professionalism within Nigeria’s event industry while mentoring women, supporting young entrepreneurs and promoting business excellence through strategic leadership and transformational practices.

Leadership Philosophy
True excellence is not measured by how beautiful an event looks, but by how intentionally every detail creates memorable experiences, meaningful connections and lasting impact.

Ajoke Akinola

Credentials

Qualifications & Recognition

Professional Qualifications

Master of Business Administration (MBA) Candidate

Entrepreneurship & Operations Management, University of Ibadan School of Business

CBCM

Certified Business Coach & Mentor

Mpmc

Member, Professional Mentor and Coach

Certified Business Coach

Event Management & Business Development Professional

Development & Executive Training

2014

Certificate in Entrepreneurial Management

Enterprise Development Centre (EDC), Lagos Business School, Pan-Atlantic University

2015

Tony Elumelu Foundation Business Plan Competition

Winner

2016

Road to Women’s Business Growth Programme

Enterprise Development Centre (EDC), Lagos Business School

Cherie Blair Foundation for Women Business Development Programme

Participant

World Bank Entrepreneurship and Business Development initiative

Participant

Awards & Recognition

2024

Ushering Agency of the Year Award

PEPVAN

2023

Award of Excellence for the Pillar of the Community

APPOEMN

2023

Champion of Humanity Brand Award

Oyo State Government

Ajoke Akinola continues to lead Pleasant Jay Events with a clear vision: to become one of Africa’s most respected event management brands, known for delivering world-class experiences through innovation, excellence, integrity and exceptional service.

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