By Prosper Mene
Reckitt, the global health and hygiene company, has announced a major leadership appointment.
The company has named Ujunwa Chukwumah as its new General Manager for West Africa, effective September 15, 2026.
The appointment is historic — Ujunwa is the first Nigerian and the first woman to hold the position in the region.
With over 19 years of commercial and leadership experience across Africa, Ujunwa brings deep expertise in commercial strategy, business transformation, market development and team leadership.
She joins Reckitt from Diageo, where she most recently served as Commercial Director for West and Central Africa, leading businesses across diverse African markets. Prior to that, she held senior roles at Procter & Gamble, building a strong track record in driving performance and developing high-performing teams.
In her new role, she will oversee Reckitt’s operations across West Africa, including Nigeria, Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire and other key markets. Her mandate includes driving commercial performance, sustainable growth, building organizational capability and developing talent, while ensuring Reckitt’s brands continue to meet evolving consumer needs.
Speaking on her appointment, Ujunwa said:
“I am delighted to join Reckitt and lead its West Africa business. Having spent much of my career working across the region, I am excited about the opportunity to bring my experience to a business whose brands play an important role in the lives of consumers. I look forward to working with our teams, customers and partners to grow our brands, develop our people and deliver sustainable growth, while continuing to ensure we provide better health in more hands everyday across West Africa.”
According to Reckitt, the appointment underscores its commitment to strong local leadership and its long-term growth ambitions in West Africa.
