Growing up in England, Nigeria gave me balanced knowledge

By Christy Anyanwu

Amira Adedimeji Oyinkansola Ibrahim-Alfa is a 32-year-old Nigerian with both Fulani and Yoruba heritage. She is the daughter of the late Air Marshal Ibrahim-Alfa, former Chief of Air Staff of the Nigerian Air Force, and Princess Adekemi Adewunmi.

With Bachelor and Master’s degrees in the bag, she said she strongly believes in the importance of education, exposure, and continuous self-development.

She also stated, in this interview, that beyond academics, her experiences across different industries and environments have shaped her into someone adaptable, resilient, and solution-oriented.

How was life growing up in England and why did you come back to settle in Nigeria?

Growing up in England exposed me to structure, diversity, and a global perspective, but my mother intentionally ensured my sister and I remained deeply connected to Nigeria. We spent our holidays here consistently, which gave me a balanced understanding of both worlds and a strong appreciation for my roots.

Returning to Nigeria was never a difficult decision for me. Regardless of where we live or travel, I believe we have a responsibility to contribute to our home country. Young Nigerians exposed to different systems and ideas globally have a duty to help build stronger systems here at home.

At some point, you realise true impact comes from participation, not observation. If we want progress and innovation, then we must be willing to contribute meaningfully to building it.

Any culture shock? Tell us your experience way back then.

Thankfully, I did not experience a major culture shock because I was already very familiar with Nigeria growing up. My mother made sure we understood the culture, values, and realities of the country from a young age.

Of course, there were adjustments, particularly with the pace of life and everyday realities, but I saw them less as shocks and more as opportunities to understand the country better. Those experiences strengthened my ability to adapt quickly, connect with different people, and navigate challenges with patience and perspective.

So what do you do, career-wise, presently, and what have you done in the past?

Professionally, I have been involved in several industries, including television, sales, construction, and marketing. I have always enjoyed learning, evolving, and stepping outside my comfort zone. Each industry taught me valuable lessons about communication, leadership, people management, problem-solving, and resilience.

I believe growth comes through experience, and even the more difficult phases of my journey helped shape my confidence and ability to think strategically under pressure. One thing I have learned is that success is rarely linear. Sometimes your greatest lessons come from the most unexpected experiences.

You have indicated interest in Nigerian politics. What propelled that choice, what party, and what position will you be vying for?

Politics, governance, and public service have always interested me because I genuinely care about the growth and future of Nigeria. Growing up around leadership and public service through both my parents exposed me to governance from an early age.

I am a member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), but beyond party affiliation, I believe leadership should ultimately be about competence, integrity, vision, and genuine service to the people.

I strongly believe young people need to become more actively involved in governance and nation-building. We are a generation filled with innovation, creativity, and forward-thinking ideas, and our voices deserve representation in spaces where real decisions are being made.

For me, politics is not just about ambition, it is about responsibility. At some point, you realise the future of this country belongs to us and to the generations coming after us. Instead of constantly criticizing from the outside, I believe it is important to step into the room, understand the process, and contribute meaningfully to change.

I am particularly passionate about youth inclusion, women’s participation in governance, economic empowerment, and creating opportunities that genuinely allow people to thrive. I believe leadership should be accessible, compassionate, solution-driven, and people-focused.

Tell us about your growing up. What are the memories you still can’t forget about your childhood days?

One of the biggest lessons from my childhood was the importance my parents placed on discipline, humility, and respect for people, regardless of status or background. My mother, especially, taught my sister and I that nobody is beneath us and that every person deserves dignity and respect.

That lesson stayed with me because it shaped how I interact with people today. I believe kindness, emotional intelligence, and respect are some of the most underrated forms of leadership.

I also grew up around conversations about responsibility, education, resilience, and service, and those values continue to guide me personally and professionally.

One thing I am especially grateful for is that I was truly allowed to be a child. I had the freedom to have fun, travel, make mistakes, express myself openly, and grow through experience. Looking back now, I realise that kind of freedom, support, and balance is a privilege not everyone gets to experience, and it played a huge role in shaping my confidence, curiosity, and outlook on life today.

Who influenced you more while growing up: your mum or dad?

Both my parents influenced me tremendously, although my mother played a more direct role in raising me after I lost my father at an early age.

Even though my father passed early, his values, discipline, and legacy still had a lasting impact on my life. My mother, however, showed me firsthand what strength, resilience, leadership, and perseverance look like in real life.

Watching her navigate life, business, family, and public service with grace and strength taught me composure, adaptability, and the importance of never giving up regardless of circumstances.

What are the lessons you have learnt about life?

Life has taught me that resilience is one of the most important qualities anyone can have. Growth often requires patience, discomfort, and consistency.

I have also learned not to compare my journey to anyone else’s because everyone’s timing is different. What is meant for you will find its way to you, but preparation is important.

Most importantly, I have learned the value of discernment and human connection. Every person you meet has something they can teach you if you are willing to listen.

What’s your definition of style?

To me, style is self-expression without words. It is the ability to communicate confidence, personality, and authenticity through how you present yourself. True style goes beyond trends. It is about individuality and being comfortable in your own identity.

Tell us your kind of style?

I would describe my style as versatile. I enjoy looking polished while still feeling comfortable and confident. I believe simplicity and authenticity will always stand out more than trying too hard.

Where is your favourite holiday destination?

Anywhere with beautiful views, great food, good energy, and sunshine instantly makes me happy. I love destinations that allow me to relax, recharge, experience new cultures, and create meaningful memories.

But I really love Paris, Dubai and Monaco. I can’t really choose.

What are your likes and dislikes?

I genuinely enjoy meeting new people, learning new skills, travelling, and experiencing different cultures. I appreciate honesty, authenticity, and people who communicate openly and sincerely.

One thing I strongly dislike is pretence. Life is much easier when people are genuine about their intentions and interactions.

What’s your favourite food?

I absolutely love Sushi, Pasta, Banga and starch, and pounded yam with efo riro. I enjoy both local and international cuisine, so I am always open to trying something new.