50 Leading Ladies Inspiring Greatness

Oluremi Tinubu has held the esteemed title of First Lady of Nigeria since 2023, offering unwavering support to President Bola Tinubu. Her illustrious journey into public service commenced as the First Lady of Lagos State from 1999 to 2007, marked by a trail of impactful initiatives. With a foundation in Education from the University of Ife and accolades, including the National Certificate of Education in Botany and Zoology from Adeyemi College of Education, her academic prowess shines brightly. Beyond the ceremonial, she founded the New Era Foundation, a platform dedicated to transforming the lives of youth and advocating for environmental health. Tinubu’s political finesse blossomed during her twelve-year tenure in the Nigerian Senate, representing Lagos Central with vigour. Her legislative endeavours championed pivotal reforms and spearheaded initiatives like the Youth Empowerment and Skill Acquisition Scheme. Her distinguished leadership and impactful community work have garnered accolades, including the prestigious Eko Excellence Award and the honour of being named the most impactful female Senator at the International Women’s Day Summit in 2021.

Amina J. Mohammed, the Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations and Chair of the United Nations Sustainable Development Group stands tall as a global luminary in leadership. Her journey commenced as Nigeria’s Minister of Environment, where she spearheaded crucial climate action and environmental protection efforts. A pivotal chapter unfolded in 2012 when Mohammed assumed the role of Special Adviser to former Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, instrumental in shaping the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Sustainable Development Goals. Grounded in grassroots projects in Nigeria, she tirelessly advocated for accessible education and social services. Her academic laurels, adorned with honorary doctorates and international recognition, attest to her enduring influence in international development.

Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, a trailblazer in global finance and development, assumed the esteemed position of WTO Director-General in March 2021, marking the pinnacle of a four-decade-long journey marked by diversity and impact. Formerly Chair of Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, and an esteemed member of the Boards of Standard Chartered PLC and Twitter Inc., she has consistently pushed boundaries. As Nigeria’s Finance Minister, she orchestrated significant reforms, deftly navigating the country through intricate economic landscapes. Notably, her efforts in debt negotiations and anti-corruption initiatives have left an indelible mark. Globally recognised, she has graced Forbes’ Top 100 Most Powerful Women and TIME’s Most Influential People lists. Her tenure at the World Bank as Managing Director witnessed her championing initiatives for low-income countries, while her historic candidacy for the World Bank Group’s presidency in 2012 remains a watershed moment in global finance.

Before her current role as the esteemed First Lady of Kwara State and the Chairperson of the Nigeria Governors’ Wives Forum

Olufolake Abdulrazaq was an accomplished diplomat who served the nation for three commendable decades. Her career was marked by significant contributions to Nigeria’s diplomatic landscape, where she was instrumental in launching campaigns and shaping legislation that positively affects women, youths, and children. As First Lady, she founded the Ajike People Support Centre, a haven that provides vital assistance, opportunities, and support to the underserved members of society. Her leadership focuses on tackling critical challenges related to health care, education, poverty eradication, and advancing gender equality.

In her role as the Chairperson of the Nigeria Governors’ Wives Forum, she orchestrates collaborative endeavours with fellow First Ladies across the nation, amplifying their collective advocacy and spearheading significant initiatives that affect enduring progress in Nigeria.

Born into a politically influential family, Musawa’s journey transcends law and politics. Educated in the UK, with advanced degrees in marine affairs and oil and gas law, she boasts credentials as a solicitor in England and Wales and a prominent legal practitioner in Nigeria. As the Principal Partner at Hanney Musawa and Associates, her legal acumen has earned widespread acclaim. Her role in the administration promises a fresh perspective and dynamic approach to nurturing Nigeria’s burgeoning cultural and entertainment sectors.

Her appointment as Minister of Art, Culture and the Creative Economy heralds a new era for Nigeria’s entertainment landscape.

Dr Doris Uzoka-Anite, Nigeria’s Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, embodies leadership with a clear vision for economic growth. Her transition from medicine to finance, highlighted by her tenure at Zenith Bank and later as Commissioner for Finance in her home state, underscores her versatility and adeptness in handling diverse portfolios. Her current role as Minister is characterised by an unyielding commitment to fostering investment, bolstering local industry capacity, and expanding exports to fuel job creation and economic prosperity. Recognised as a thought leader, she actively contributes to numerous presidential committees and professional organisations, solidifying her status as a key figure in Nigeria’s economic landscape.

Currently, the Special Adviser to the President on Policy Coordination, Hadiza Bala Usman, is renowned for her transformative leadership skills. She made history as the first female Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), breathing new life into the institution’s 63-year legacy. Prior to this, her significant contributions at the Bureau of Public Enterprises and the UNDP, focusing on project implementation for the Federal Capital Territory Administration, showcased her leadership prowess. Her tenure as Chief of Staff to the Executive Governor of Kaduna State further underscored her exemplary leadership skills. Bala Usman’s unwavering commitment to governance, the education of the girl child, and women’s emancipation consistently earns her accolades and admiration.

Tariye Gbadegesin, a powerhouse bridging continents as a Nigerian-US national, made history by becoming the first African to assume the prestigious role of Chief Executive Officer (CEO) at the Climate Investment Funds (CIF). With an impressive track record spanning over two decades in investing across developing economies, Tariye spearheads one of the globe’s most substantial multilateral climate funds, boasting an impressive $11 billion in pledges. Her visionary leadership is poised to drive pioneering initiatives in clean energy transitions, nature-based solutions, and resilience across more than 70 developing countries.

Damilola Ogunbiyi stands at the forefront of the global energy landscape as the CEO of Sustainable Energy for All and the beacon behind UN-Energy. Her leadership is defined by her groundbreaking accomplishments as the first female Managing Director of the Nigerian Rural Electrification Agency. Here, she orchestrated the Nigerian Electrification Project—a monumental $550 million initiative paving the way for a solar-powered Nigeria.

Ogunbiyi’s strategic vision also birthed the Energizing Education Programme, ensuring uninterrupted electricity flows through the veins of federal universities and teaching hospitals. Not one to rest on her laurels, she conceived the Energizing Economies Initiative, lighting up the business dreams of over a million SMEs.

With a track record that includes serving as the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Power and spearheading the Power Sector Recovery Programme, Damilola’s influence is profound.

Shattering glass ceilings, Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe ascends as Fidelity Bank Plc’s first female CEO, a testament to her 30-plus years of resilience and excellence in banking. Joining Fidelity Bank in 2015, her journey culminated in her historic appointment as MD/CEO in 2021. With degrees from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka and King’s College London, Nneka’s academic foundation paved the way for a career adorned with accomplishments. A Harvard and Wharton alumna, she also holds an honorary doctorate from UNN and the prestigious Officer of the Order of the Niger. Her vast experience includes pivotal roles at Zenith and Standard Chartered Bank, where she mastered negotiating complex deals across various sectors. Renowned for her visionary leadership, Nneka significantly bolstered Fidelity Bank’s profitability and spearheaded groundbreaking initiatives like PayGate Plus.

As GTBank’s first female MD, Miriam Olusanya epitomises women’s empowerment in the banking sector. Her 23-year tenure is a testament to her versatility and expertise across diverse roles. A GTBank veteran since 1998, Miriam’s rise from an executive trainee to the pinnacle of leadership underscores her exceptional capabilities. An alumna of the University of Ibadan and the University of Liverpool, her academic background in Pharmacy and Finance underscores her unique blend of analytical and financial acumen.

Yemisi Edun’s stewardship as MD/CEO of First City Monument Bank (FCMB) since 2021 has been transformative, focusing on SME lending and propelling the bank into the international spotlight for its role in economic growth. Under her guidance, FCMB has championed lending initiatives, particularly empowering over 50,000 women-owned businesses. Yemisi’s innovative approach to leveraging digital channels and AI for loan disbursement has revolutionised customer experience and financial inclusion, solidifying her status as a banking trailblazer.

Emem Usoro’s trajectory in banking, spanning over two decades, culminated in her prestigious role as Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria. Her tenure at UBA as Executive Director, overseeing seven regional banks, exemplified her strategic prowess and leadership excellence. Emem’s academic credentials, including a B.Sc. from the University of Uyo and an MBA from Obafemi Awolowo University, complemented by her Harvard and Lagos Business School experiences, have equipped her for this high-profile role.

Bolaji Agbede, a distinguished figure in banking, steps into the limelight as the acting CEO of Access Holdings Plc. Her journey, commencing in 1992, weaves a rich tapestry of roles at GTBank and as CEO of a consulting firm before joining Access Bank in 2003. Bolaji’s ascent from assistant general manager to executive director reflects her unparalleled expertise and leadership skills. An alumna of the University of Lagos, her academic and professional journey epitomises determination and excellence.

Bukola Smith, FSDH Merchant Bank’s MD/CEO since April 2021, brings an impressive 29-year banking career marked by strategic leadership and innovation. Previously at FCMB, she led numerous divisions to stellar achievements, including propelling the SME team to industry leadership. Her initiatives, like the SheVentures platform, demonstrate her commitment to empowering female entrepreneurs. Bukola’s expertise extends across various banking sectors, solidifying her reputation as a formidable force in the industry. Her academic achievements from the University of Lagos and Alliance Manchester Business School further highlight her distinguished career.

As the Chief Economist at Coronation Merchant Bank, Chinwe Egwim’s role is pivotal in shaping economic strategies and insights. Her impressive journey includes leading positions at FBNQuest Merchant Bank and active involvement in WIMBIZ. Chinwe’s election to the Association of Professional Women Bankers and her role in the Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms Committee highlight her influence in the banking and economic sectors.

Nkiru Anumudu has emerged as a formidable force in the automotive world. After the passing of her husband, Willie Anumudu, a renowned billionaire businessman and Chairman of Globe Motors, Nkiru courageously stepped up to steer the company. Today, she is perhaps the most prominent female auto dealer in Nigeria, breaking barriers and setting new standards in a traditionally male-dominated industry. Her exceptional and distinctive fashion sense is also worth noting.

Meet Kofo Akinkugbe, a trailblazing techpreneur whose journey from mathematics and banking led to the creation of SecureID, Africa’s go-to provider of smartcard solutions. Her passion for innovation shines through in SecureID’s groundbreaking technology, which is certified by industry giants like Visa, MasterCard, and Verve. With a creative vision and forward-thinking approach, Kofo continues to inspire change and set new standards in the business landscape.

In 1993, Pharmacist Joke Bakare embarked on a groundbreaking venture, founding Medplus, Nigeria’s premier pharmacy-led health and beauty retail chain. Her pioneering spirit and commitment to excellence have transformed Medplus into a trusted source for genuine products and superior service. Today, with 42 outlets nationwide, Joke’s entrepreneurial prowess continues to revolutionise the healthcare sector, delivering holistic wellness solutions to consumers across Nigeria.

As the CEO/Vice Chairman of Fine and Country West Africa, Udo Okonjo doesn’t just navigate the Nigerian real estate market; she shapes it. But her impact doesn’t stop there. Udo is on a mission to ignite possibilities, especially for women, through her annual Refined Investor Series, where she unveils the secrets of financial freedom and business success.

A sought-after global speaker, Udo graces stages worldwide, captivating audiences with her insights on leadership, entrepreneurship, and women’s empowerment. From local gatherings to prestigious platforms, Udo champions the advancement of women in business and the transformative power of visionary leadership.

Catherine Uju Ifejika, a powerhouse in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector, defied conventions to become the CEO of Brittania-U Nigeria Limited (BUNL) and Brittania-U Ghana (BUGL). As one of Africa’s wealthiest and most influential women, Catherine’s journey from Texaco to Chevron showcases her resilience and determination. Under her leadership, Brittania-U has achieved remarkable milestones, from upstream exploration to refining and trading. Catherine’s visionary leadership and numerous accolades speak volumes about her unwavering commitment to excellence.

As the first female chairman of ExxonMobil affiliates in Nigeria, Adesuwa Dozie’s appointment marks a historic moment in corporate leadership. With over two decades of experience as a trusted legal advisor, she brings a wealth of expertise to her role, driving growth and fostering inclusive environments. Adesuwa’s passion for empowering diverse talent is evident in her dedication to building strong corporate governance cultures across Africa.

When she isn’t politicking, she sits atop South Atlantic Petroleum, holding sway as Executive Vice Chairman. Senator Daisy Ehanire Danjuma’s illustrious career spans over four decades, from her beginnings as a State Counsel to her tenure as a distinguished Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Her commitment to women’s and children’s rights, showcased through her leadership roles in the ECOWAS Parliament and Senate Committee, reflects her tireless advocacy for social justice. Senator Danjuma’s legacy as a legal luminary and champion of human rights continues to inspire generations.

Engr. Elohor Juliana Aiboni’s journey to becoming the Managing Director of Shell Nigeria Exploration & Production Company (SNEPCo) is a testament to her exceptional leadership and expertise. With a background in Chemical Engineering and a Master’s degree in Integrated Environmental Management, Elohor brings a wealth of knowledge to the oil and gas sector. Her role in leading SNEPCo and her contributions to organisations like Women in Energy, Nigeria (WIEN) underscore her dedication to driving positive change in the industry.

Currently holding the position of Vice-Chairman of Famfa Oil Limited, Folorunsho Alakija is regarded as one of the wealthiest black women in the world. Famfa Limited, Alakija’s business, was granted a licence to explore oil on OPL 216, a 617,000-acre region. She signed a joint venture agreement with Star Deep Water Petroleum Limited, a Texaco subsidiary, giving them forty per cent of her total ownership and authorising them as technical consultants for exploration. When she struck oil, the government tried to acquire a 50% stake in the firm, but Alakija launched a lawsuit and triumphed. Today, Forbes magazine ranks her as the 96th most powerful woman in the world and the 2nd richest woman in Africa. She is also a philanthropist; she established the Rose of Sharon Foundation, empowering many widows, orphans, and underprivileged people.

Nigerian businesswoman and entrepreneur Winifred Akpani is well-known for contributing to the oil and gas sector. In addition to being the CEO and founder of Northwest Petroleum & Gas Limited, a Nigerian-based indigenous petroleum products marketing firm, she is a professional accountant. Under her management, Northwest Petroleum evolved into an important player in the Nigerian oil and gas sector, and to support its activities, Akpani made significant investments in the growth of its human resources and infrastructure. Her oil and gas company is involved in petroleum product distribution, retail, and storage; it is also heavily involved in the industry’s downstream sector. Akapni has been recognised as one of Nigeria’s most prosperous businesswomen and has won numerous awards and prizes for her contributions to the growth of the nation’s economy. She also participates in a number of charitable endeavours, focusing mostly on education, where she supports the schooling of several impoverished Nigerian children.

Operating inside a free trade zone in Lagos, Lagos Deep Offshore Logistics Base (LADOL) is the biggest logistics and engineering facility in West Africa. Dr Amy Jadesimi is the woman CEO directing its affairs. In addition to employing over ten thousand people, Dr Amy sees that LADOL extends its services to non-oil industry sectors, leveraging the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. Jadesimi has received several honours, including the World Economic Forum’s Young Global Leader Award.

 Dr Jadesimi, as she is addressed, is a medical doctor with training from Oxford. She worked at Goldman Sachs and attended the Stanford Graduate School of Business before advancing through the ranks of LADOL, a company her father, Oladipo Jadesimi, established in 2000.

Adia Sowho, who has established a reputation as a problem solver in Nigeria’s commercial, tech, and media sectors, is the Chief Marketing Officer of MTN Nigeria. She has successfully designed, built and scaled tech-driven platform companies in emerging markets, delivering +$100M businesses.

She was the VP of Growth and Managing Director in Nigeria for Migo (formerly Mines.io), a machine learning-powered digital instant credit platform. Prior to that, she was the Director of Digital Business at 9mobile (formerly Etisalat Nigeria), where she was responsible for partnering with startups to deliver mobile content, advertising, and financial and API services.

Having worked in the fields of technology, financial services, and mobile content development, her current goals are to encourage more young women to pursue careers in technology and to change the tech culture in Nigeria.

Odunayo Eweniyi is a successful digital startup specialist who is making waves in Nigeria. She is also well-known for her advocacy of women’s and girls’ empowerment, having contributed to the over $1 million in funds raised in support of the #EndSARS movement, a youth-led campaign against police brutality in her nation. Additionally, she founded Wine & Whine Nigeria and the Feminist Coalition, two non-profits dedicated to women’s emancipation. Ms. Eweniyi is a co-founder of Piggyvest, FirstCheck Africa, and PushCV, among other software startups.

Damilola is a women’s rights activist, tech entrepreneur, and communication professional whose work combines gender equality, travel, and technology. She is one of the co-founders of the travel and social networking app Backrop, which helps users discover and share stunning locations. Along with being a co-founder of the Feminist Coalition, she is an advocate for women’s equality in Nigeria, primarily focusing on financial independence, education, and the representation of women in public office.

Damilola had previously held positions as the head of public relations at Binance, the largest cryptocurrency exchange in the world, and a social media producer at CNN Africa.

Amusan rose to prominence with her impressive performance in the 100-metre women’s hurdles race. With a time of 12.12 seconds, she is the current world record holder in the 100-metre hurdles. This remarkable accomplishment was made in Eugene, Oregon, in 2022 during the women’s 100-metre hurdles semifinal. She is the first Nigerian to hold a world record in athletics by reaching this milestone. Amusan is also the current 100-metre hurdle champion for both Africa and the Commonwealth. She was crowned the Diamond League champion in 2021.

Asisat is a striker for Barcelona, a European football club, and the Nigerian women’s national team, the Super Falcons. She is a dominant force in women’s football in Nigeria and internationally. She became the first African woman to participate in England’s premier women’s league when she joined Liverpool in the Women’s Super League in 2015. She was named the 2014 FIFA U-20 World Player of the Year. She was awarded the rank of Member of the Order of the Niger that same year by former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan. Oshoala received a September nomination for the 2023 Women’s Ballon d’Or. Her sixth victory came three months later when she was named the African Women’s Footballer of the Year.

Funke Akindele is undoubtedly one of the most well-known figures in the Nigerian film industry. She is frequently praised for her diversity and creativity and is recognised for having created one of the most memorable characters in recent times, Jenifa. Funke’s journey as an actress began in 1998 when she starred in the sitcom I Need to Know. She then transitioned fully into the Nollywood movie industry and, in 2009, was recognised for her acting prowess and awarded the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actress in a Leading Role. Since then, the actress has been on a steady uphill climb. She recently made history with her latest film, “A Tribe Called Judah.” The movie earned a whopping sum of 1 billion naira at the Nigerian box office in three weeks, making it the fastest Nollywood movie to achieve this feat. 

Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie is a Nigerian writer whose works range from novels to short stories to nonfiction. She has remained an advocate for gender equality in Nigeria and across the world. From being sampled by Beyonce to giving insightful talks to having huge motion pictures made out of her novels and writing thought-provoking speeches, Chimamanda constantly redefines the notion of what and who an author should be.

Tems, renowned for her reflective songs and soulful voice, offers an appealing sound that combines Afro-fusion, neo-soul, and R&B. Her expressive delivery and calming voice have drawn comparisons to legendary performers like Sade and Erykah Badu. With the release of her breakthrough hit song “Mr Rebel” in 2018, Tems became well-known, and since then, she has released a number of critically acclaimed tracks. She is the first Nigerian female artist to be nominated for an Oscar Award.

Rising Afro-pop musician Ayra Starr made her musical debut in 2021 with her self-titled EP. Since then, fans have been captivated by her distinct sound and fresh approach to music. Ayra’s songs resonate with a younger audience, often dealing with self-discovery, love, and personal development themes. In her short time in the music industry, Ayra Starr has already worked with leading Nigerian and international musicians to create several well-known singles, including “Rush,” “Bloody Samaritan,” and “Sability.”

Folake launched Tiffany Amber in 1998, a revolutionary fashion brand. In no time, her passion was skillfully transformed into an iconic African brand that has achieved extraordinary worldwide recognition. Since then, Folake has been a cultural ambassador for Africa by boldly showcasing Nigerian designs on the most renowned runways worldwide. Her dedication to innovation and quality has won her several honours and awards.

In 2022, Folake launched Tiffany Amber Gardens, a haven tucked away from the busy daily life of Lagos where the Tiffany Amber Flagship Boutique, Tiffany Amber Cafe, and Tiffany Amber Spa are housed, extending the brand’s products beyond goods to include services and immersive experiences. Folake’s commitment to the expansion and sustainability of the fashion business, combined with her admiration for African women and culture, has solidified her place in the industry.

Mo Abudu isn’t just a name in the Nigerian film industry; she’s a force to be reckoned with. At the helm of EbonyLife Media, she’s the mastermind behind ventures that are as diverse as they are impactful. She’s also the driving force behind EbonyLife Studios and EbonyLife Films, responsible for producing some of Nigeria’s highest-grossing movies. In a recent groundbreaking move, she teamed up with none other than Idris Elba’s Green Door Pictures. This powerful alliance is set to usher in a new era of film and television projects. 

Kemi Adetiba is a renowned filmmaker in Africa, acclaimed for her work with some of the continent’s biggest stars. Additionally, she has directed commercials for various international brands. Her debut feature film, “The Wedding Party,” released in 2016, set records as the first Nigerian movie to earn over 400 million naira. Following this success, her next film, “King of Boys,” quickly gained popularity and sparked the KOB Army movement. The eagerly awaited sequel, “KOB2,” released in 2021 as a Netflix original, further elevated her profile. Last year, Adetiba announced on social media that she had started pre-production for the much-anticipated “King of Boys 3.” 

Reni Folawiyo is a celebrated cultural entrepreneur known for her pivotal role in crafting and influencing modern African aesthetics. She is also the founder and director of Alára, Africa’s premier hub for culture, fashion, art, culinary arts, and design architecturally crafted by the famous Sir David Adjaye. Reni is a trendsetter and fashion icon. Her guidance and influence have been instrumental in shaping the careers of numerous leading creatives across Africa.

Lisa Folawiyo is regarded as a veteran fashion designer in the Nigerian fashion industry. Originally trained as a lawyer, Folawiyo came to fashion without formal training. She founded her line, Lisa Folawiyo—previously known as Jewel by Lisa—in 2005. 

She is renowned for her opulent interpretation of women’s accessories and ready-to-wear. She is well known for her creative, vibrant designs that combine trends with Ankara influences, contemporary tailoring, and elaborate accents like hand embellishments. 

Ayo Mairo-Ese is a broadcaster, event compere, and public speaker. She co-anchors The Morning Show, the foremost morning programme in Nigeria, on the ARISE News Channel. Throughout her years in broadcast media, she has had the chance to conduct thought-provoking conversations with renowned guests, including thought leaders, industry captains, and other high-profile local and international personalities. She advocates for promoting and empowering Nigerian women, using her media platform to support them as much as possible. She is also a role model for women and young people, serving as a “Super Mentor” for the Fist City Monument Bank (FCMB) and is a highly sought-after conference speaker. 

Ruth Osime is the anchor of ARISE News TV’s program “Perspective” and the former editor of THISDAY Style Magazine. Renowned for her commitment to excellence and a sharp eye for identifying talent, Ruth played a pivotal role in elevating THISDAY Style Magazine to new heights. During her editorship, she was instrumental in discovering new talents and giving established personalities a platform to gain international recognition. Under her leadership at Style, the magazine’s cover became a symbol of prestige, highly sought after by socialites and celebrities alike. Her legacy in shaping media and fashion narratives continues to be influential today.

Entrepreneur Uche Pedro is one of Nigeria’s foremost mediaprenuers. She founded and serves as CEO of BellaNaija, a media tech company that produces lifestyle and entertainment content. BellaNaija’s collection of businesses, BellaNaija.com, BellaNaija Weddings, and BellaNaija Style, has evolved under her direction to become the most significant social presence on the African continent, generating more than 100 million impressions monthly. Uche received the Forbes Woman Africa New Media Award in March 2019 for her creative influence on African media. Many bloggers today see her as an inspiration and are making strides to learn from her business strategy.

With over 15 years of experience, Rolake is recognised for her strategic leadership in financing, investing, and scaling businesses within Africa. Before her tenure at Mixta Africa, she was the Senior Africa Advisor for the IFU Danish Investment Fund, facilitating robust partnerships and identifying portfolio opportunities in both private and public sectors. Her previous roles include Head of Energy at FBN Capital and FBNQuest Merchant Bank from 2014 to 2019, where she led client coverage and origination for energy and infrastructure clients, successfully securing debt and equity capital. 

She presently hosts the highly regarded weekend business programme BusinessWeek on the pan-African news network ARISE News. She most recently covered the channel’s coverage of energy, infrastructure, the economy, and investment issues at the Davos World Economic Forum in 2024.

Banke Kuku Lawson, the driving force behind her namesake lifestyle brand, Banke Kuku, is a notable figure in Nigeria’s women’s fashion world. She initially gained recognition with designs that seamlessly transitioned her interior design aesthetics into fashion. She is known for collections that are celebrated for their vibrant colours, masterful textile patterns, and an elegant blend of contemporary and traditional elements; Banke has carved a unique niche. Her signature style is a luxurious take on loungewear, deeply influenced by her experiences living in both Lagos and London. Her creations have captivated women and celebrities globally, earning acclaim and adoration for their standout appeal.

Dr Kemi DaSilva-Ibru is a public health physician, specialist, and researcher dedicated to enhancing the well-being of women and girls through her medical practice, social activism, and public advocacy. As the founder of the nonprofit organisation WARIF, she addresses the pervasive issues of rape, child trafficking, and gender-based violence in Nigeria. Dr DaSilva-Ibru’s efforts have earned her international acclaim as a leading expert in women’s health. Her mission is to create a world devoid of gender-based and sexual violence, enabling all women and girls to lead joyful and fulfilling lives.

Dr Oby Ezekwesili is a leading advocate for social justice in Africa. She has used her influence to tackle corruption, extremism, and violence against women. She earned the nickname “Madam Due Process” for her unyielding efforts to eliminate corruption and malpractice in Nigeria’s public procurement and contracting processes. As a co-founder of Transparency International, she gained global recognition for her contributions to the development of anti-corruption strategies now widely adopted by various countries.

Additionally, Dr Ezekwesili made significant strides in her role as Nigeria’s former Federal Minister of Solid Minerals, where she was instrumental in rejuvenating the mining sector, attracting mining investors, and boosting its profitability. Her subsequent tenure as Minister of Education in 2006 marked a transformative period in Nigeria’s educational system.

Ezekwesili used the Bring Back Our Girls (BBOG) advocacy group to draw global attention to the plight of all persons whom terrorists have abducted from Nigeria’s northern region. She was instrumental in the start of the viral #Advocacy and #BringBackOurGirls Campaign on social media, which trended internationally.

Ann-Kio Briggs is an environmentalist and human rights activist known for her leading role in the Niger Delta self-determination movement. She is the founder and executive director of Agape Birthrights, a non-governmental organisation focused on environmental, developmental, political, and human rights advocacy. Her work has been pivotal in voicing the concerns of the Niger Delta region. Briggs also plays a significant role in the Ijaw Republican Assembly, where she has been a prominent advocate for justice, equity, and fairness for communities affected by Nigeria’s oil and gas industry. As of 2011, she served as the spokesperson for both the Ijaw Republican Assembly (IRA) and the United Niger Delta Energy Development Security Strategy (UNDEDSS). Over the past 23 years, Briggs has been instrumental in keeping the issues of Nigeria’s oil-producing regions at the forefront of national conversations. Through her organisation, she has contributed to documenting and addressing oil spillages and has been a steadfast fighter against injustice and marginalisation in developing areas.