At 50, Ifeoma Onebunne Celebrates a Life of Enterprise, Elegance and Purpose

By Tosin Clegg

For accomplished entrepreneur and business leader Mrs. Ifeoma Onebunne, turning 50 was more than a personal milestone—it was an opportunity to reflect on a journey defined by resilience, excellence and purposeful impact. Surrounded by family, close friends and business associates, she marked the occasion with an intimate birthday dinner at Purple Jasmine Café, Ikoyi, Lagos, in an atmosphere that mirrored her personality: elegant, warm and understated.

A certified accountant, financial literacy expert and entrepreneur, Ifeoma has built a reputation as a woman who combines professional excellence with entrepreneurial vision. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Accountancy and an MBA in Banking and Finance from the University of Nigeria, alongside professional certifications including ACA amongst others.

Her career began in the accounting profession with the then Akintola Williams Chartered Accountants before moving to First Bank of Nigeria. It was there that she gained valuable corporate experience before making the bold decision to pursue entrepreneurship full-time—a decision that has since shaped a remarkable business journey.

Today, she is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Canar’s Closet, one of Sangotedo’s leading fashion destinations, and Canar’s Suites, an upscale serviced apartment brand offering premium short- and long-stay accommodation in Lagos.

Through Canar’s Closet, located at Didi Mall, Sangotedo, Ifeoma has created more than a fashion boutique. The brand has become a destination for women who value confidence, elegance and quality. With carefully curated clothing, statement footwear, premium jewellery and stylish accessories sourced from trusted manufacturers, Canar’s Closet is dedicated to dressing the modern, phenomenal woman. The boutique serves customers both within Nigeria and internationally through its global delivery service.

Beyond fashion and hospitality, Ifeoma is passionate about financial empowerment. Leveraging her background as a chartered accountant, she continues to educate individuals on wealth creation, financial literacy and digital commerce through her personal platform, inspiring many to build sustainable financial futures.

Her commitment to service extends beyond business. As a Trustee of the Ugonmuta Foundation for Educational Development, she contributes to initiatives that promote access to education and community development, reflecting her belief that meaningful success is measured by the positive impact one leaves on others.

Family remains central to her story. She is the widow of the late Dr. Roberts Ugochukwu Onebunne, former Chief Medical Officer with the United Nations and a posthumous recipient of the prestigious United Nations Dag Hammarskjöld Medal, awarded to personnel who lost their lives in the line of duty. Their marriage of twenty-five years was blessed with five children, three of whom are already university graduates. She is also the daughter of distinguished academics, Professor Francis Okafor and Professor Regina Okafor of the University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus, whose legacy of scholarship and excellence continues to inspire her.

The birthday dinner reflected the values that have shaped her journey—gratitude, meaningful relationships and quiet sophistication. Guests enjoyed an evening of heartfelt conversations, fine dining and touching tributes celebrating her accomplishments as an entrepreneur, mentor, mother and friend.

The event décor and overall ambience were thoughtfully coordinated with support from her friend, Sylvia Edem, whose creative input helped bring the celebrant’s vision for the evening to life.

As she begins a new chapter, Ifeoma Onebunne continues to demonstrate that true success is built through consistency, courage and service. Whether through fashion, hospitality, financial education or philanthropy, she remains committed to creating value, empowering others and building brands that reflect excellence with purpose.