Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Union Bank of Nigeria, Yetunde B. Oni, has urged professionals to embrace opportunities despite self-doubt, stressing that confidence is often built through action rather than before it.
In a reflective piece titled “The Future Belongs to Those Who Show Up,” Oni said many talented individuals miss opportunities because they wait until they feel completely ready, noting that true confidence usually comes after accepting challenges and growing through the experience.
According to her, people should not disqualify themselves before opportunities arise but instead apply for roles, compete, and embrace the learning process even if success is not immediate.
“Confidence does not always come before the opportunity. Very often it comes afterwards, once you have accepted the challenge, prepared properly, and allowed the process itself to change you,” she said.
Drawing from her leadership experience, Oni stressed that effective leadership is anchored on purpose, continuous learning and a willingness to take responsibility rather than having all the answers.
She noted that organisational culture is shaped by the daily actions of leaders, emphasizing the need to create psychologically safe workplaces where employees can speak honestly, ask questions, provide feedback and learn from mistakes without fear.
“The best decisions are often made when people feel secure enough to contribute honestly, to ask questions, to offer feedback, and even to make mistakes and learn from them without fear of being diminished,” she stated.
The Union Bank CEO also highlighted ethics and integrity as the most important qualities of leadership, arguing that while competence can be developed, trust remains the foundation of every successful institution.
She said leaders must be reliable, honest and committed to serving others, especially during difficult periods.
Reflecting on her personal definition of success, Oni said career achievements remain important but should be balanced with family, personal wellbeing and making a meaningful impact.
She advised professionals not to postpone happiness until reaching a particular career milestone, adding that rest, setting boundaries and seeking help are essential for sustainable leadership.
Speaking on women in leadership, Oni called for greater inclusion and support, saying it is not enough for women to be present in decision-making spaces—they must also feel empowered to speak, contribute and pursue leadership opportunities.
She urged leaders to identify and encourage talent, while challenging women not to allow self-doubt prevent them from pursuing opportunities.
“My encouragement is always the same. Do not disqualify yourself before the opportunity arrives. Apply, compete, speak, contribute, and do it, even if you must do it afraid,” she said.
Oni added that her vision for Union Bank is to help build a workplace where people feel trusted, supported, accountable and empowered to thrive, maintaining that organisations achieve lasting success by fostering cultures of integrity, openness and continuous growth.
“The future belongs to those who show up. Not to those who wait until every doubt has been resolved, but to those who prepare, who act with integrity, who lift others as they rise, and who find the courage to begin before they feel entirely ready,” she concluded.