Esther Agbaroma

A Nigerian entrepreneur and media mogul who revolutionized Africa's entertainment and education sectors through innovative leadership.

Esther Agbaroma is a trailblazing Nigerian entrepreneur and media executive renowned for founding Silverbird Group, a multinational conglomerate that has transformed Africa's entertainment and education landscapes. Born in 1968 in Lagos, Nigeria, Agbaroma's journey began in the United States, where she earned a degree in Business Administration and later worked in corporate finance. Her return to Nigeria in the early 2000s marked the start of her entrepreneurial ventures.

In 2000, Agbaroma co-founded Silverbird Group, which initially focused on cinema exhibition through its flagship brand Silverbird Cinemas. Recognizing the lack of quality entertainment infrastructure in Africa, she pioneered multiplex theaters across Nigeria, eventually expanding to Ghana, Kenya, and beyond. Beyond cinema, the group ventured into publishing, education, and digital media, including the establishment of Silverbird Academy, a training hub for young professionals in media and technology.

Agbaroma's commitment to women's empowerment is central to her legacy. She founded the Silverbird Women's Initiative, a platform supporting female entrepreneurs and leadership development. Her advocacy for gender equality and economic inclusion has inspired countless women across Africa to pursue careers in traditionally male-dominated fields.

In 2015, Agbaroma launched Silverbird Education, a digital learning platform offering affordable courses in business, IT, and creative arts. This initiative addresses the continent's skills gap and provides opportunities for underprivileged youth. Her work has been recognized globally, including being named one of Forbes Africa's most influential women in 2020.

Beyond business, Agbaroma is a vocal advocate for cultural preservation. She supports the African Arts Initiative, promoting local artists and traditional craftsmanship. Her holistic approach to development—combining entertainment, education, and social impact—has made her a symbol of Africa's potential for innovation and leadership in the 21st century.