There’s an unspoken weight that comes with being a woman. A silent expectation that you must be everything at once—strong yet soft, ambitious yet accommodating, powerful but not too powerful. You must balance the home, boardroom, and community to make it all look effortless. In Nigeria, where the stakes are even higher, the expectation is amplified. But despite these invisible boundaries, women continue to push through, breaking barriers in industries that once considered them outsiders.
This year, in honour of International Women’s Day, we spotlight 50 leading women who are redefining what’s possible. From boardrooms to creative studios and legislative chambers, these women are proving that excellence is not a gendered trait—it’s the result of hard work, resilience, and an unyielding belief in oneself.
They are the women leading billion-dollar conglomerates, pioneering advancements in tech, spearheading social movements, and making history in governance. They are the ones challenging the status quo in male-dominated sectors, proving that gender is not a limitation but a perspective that adds depth to leadership. And yet, they do all this while navigating the everyday realities of womanhood—expected to be nurturers, caregivers, and moral compasses for society.
What makes these women truly remarkable isn’t just their success—it’s the road they took to get there. The unspoken battles, the doors slammed in their faces, the casual dismissals, the moments they had to fight twice as hard just to be seen. Yet, they persisted. They didn’t just demand a seat at the table; they built their own tables and opened doors for others to walk through.
This feature isn’t just about their titles or accomplishments—it’s about their impact. It’s about the younger generation of girls watching them and realising I, too, can be more. It’s about the ripple effect of representation and the power of knowing that ceilings are meant to be shattered.
So, here’s to the 50 powerhouses who continue to rise and prove that leadership, innovation, and brilliance are not defined by gender. This is their moment, and it is only the beginning.
POLITICS AND GOVERNMENT
Senator Oluremi Tinubu
First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria
From Lagos politics to the national stage, Senator Oluremi Tinubu has carved a path of service and impact. As the First Lady of Lagos State, she championed women’s empowerment, and upon joining the Senate in 2011, she spent over a decade shaping policies that addressed education, social welfare, and youth development. Now, as Nigeria’s First Lady, she leads the Renewed Hope Initiative, offering relief and empowerment programs for women, children, and displaced communities. Her commitment to healthcare saw her advocating for HPV vaccinations to prevent cervical cancer, while her humanitarian efforts include a ₦500 million donation to victims of communal clashes in Plateau State. Her leadership is hands-on—whether renaming the National Women Development Centre in honour of Maryam Babangida or standing in solidarity with survivors of terrorism, she continues to push for tangible change in the lives of Nigerians.
Amb. Dr. Olufolake Abdulrazaq
First Lady of Kwara State & Chairperson, Nigeria Governors’ Spouses Forum
With an illustrious career spanning diplomacy, trade, and public service, Amb. Dr. Olufolake Abdulrazaq is a force for social change. A career diplomat with degrees from the University of Lagos, she served in key diplomatic positions in London, Paris, and Pretoria before turning her focus to advocacy. As Chairperson of the Nigeria Governors’ Spouses Forum, she has influenced policies on healthcare, gender equity, and youth empowerment. Through her Ajike People Support Centre, she champions causes that uplift women, children, and marginalised communities. Her accolades include honorary doctorate degrees in Gender Development and Social Policy, underscoring her dedication to progressive governance and humanitarian service.
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan
Senator Representing Kogi Central
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan is rewriting the script for women in Nigerian politics. A lawyer, social entrepreneur, and advocate for industrialisation, she has fiercely championed economic development, education, and infrastructure. Her Builders Hub Impact Investment Program birthed Nigeria’s first integrated technology development and business growth hub, while her scholarship schemes have supported hundreds of students. She is also addressing critical infrastructure gaps, from lighting 30km of roads in Kogi Central to constructing new schools and providing potable water to over 1,800 locations. Her legislative agenda is bold, focusing on reviving the Ajaokuta Steel Company and expanding the National Iron Ore Mining Company’s mandate. For Natasha, representation is more than a title—it’s action.
Hadiza Bala Usman
Special Adviser to the President on Policy Coordination & Former MD, Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA)
A trailblazer in governance, Hadiza Bala Usman has broken barriers in both the public and private sectors. As the first female Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), she led critical reforms in port administration, driving transparency and efficiency. Beyond that, her role in the #BringBackOurGirls movement showcased her activism and dedication to human rights. Now, as Special Adviser to the President on Policy Coordination, she ensures the smooth execution of national priorities, reinforcing accountability across government programs. Whether advocating for girl-child education, anti-corruption, or gender inclusivity in governance, Hadiza remains one of Nigeria’s most influential voices in policy and reform.
Dr. Jumoke Oduwole
Minister of Industry, Trade, and Investment
A brilliant policy reformer and legal expert, Dr Jumoke Oduwole, is shaping Nigeria’s economic future. She played a pivotal role in over 200 business reforms, catapulting Nigeria’s ease of doing business rankings on the global stage. As the brain behind PEBEC (Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council), she championed policies that enhanced trade, investment, and SME growth. With degrees from Harvard, Cambridge, and Stanford, her expertise is globally recognised. Her tenure as Minister is focused on revitalising investor confidence, spearheading Nigeria’s AfCFTA implementation, and ensuring that women and youth have a stronger presence in trade and industry.
GLOBAL AFFAIRS
Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala
Director-General, World Trade Organization (WTO)
There are powerhouses, and then there is Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala. The first African and first woman to lead the WTO, she has redefined global trade by prioritising developing nations, fair economic policies, and sustainable commerce. As Nigeria’s former Minister of Finance, she negotiated a groundbreaking $18 billion debt relief, stabilising the nation’s economy. Her leadership extends beyond finance—she champions women’s empowerment, climate change policies, and equitable vaccine distribution. Forbes, TIME, and The Financial Times have named her one of the most influential women in the world, and rightly so.
Amina J. Mohammed
Deputy Secretary-General, United Nations
A woman of vision and impact, Amina Mohammed is leading global development efforts as Deputy Secretary-General of the UN. She was instrumental in creating the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), ensuring that women, children, and marginalised communities are prioritised in global policies. Before this, she served as Nigeria’s Minister of Environment, overseeing climate action and reforestation projects. A trusted advisor to four Nigerian Presidents, her expertise in poverty alleviation and sustainable growth has left an indelible mark on international governance.
Tariye Gbadegesin
CEO, Climate Investment Funds (CIF)
As CEO of Climate Investment Funds (CIF), Tariye Gbadegesin is leading a $11 billion initiative to fight climate change in over 70 developing countries. A powerhouse in climate finance, she has structured over $3 billion in clean energy projects and is at the forefront of Africa’s energy transition. Her expertise spans renewable energy, carbon markets, and sustainable development, positioning her as a key player in the fight against climate change.
Damilola Ogunbiyi
CEO & UN Special Representative for Sustainable Energy for All (SEforALL)
A global advocate for energy access, Damilola Ogunbiyi is on a mission to provide universal electricity by 2030. As CEO of SEforALL, she has secured over $1.4 trillion in energy finance, launched climate-friendly initiatives, and led electrification projects across Africa. Recognised in the TIME100 Climate List, she is shaping the future of sustainable energy and ensuring that no community is left in the dark.
ENTREPRENEURSHIP, BUSINESS & FINANCE
Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe
Managing Director/CEO, Fidelity Bank Plc
As the first female CEO of Fidelity Bank, Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe is shattering glass ceilings in the banking sector. Under her leadership, the bank’s profits surged from ₦25.22 billion in 2021 to a record ₦124.26 billion in 2023. She spearheaded Fidelity Bank’s expansion into the UK, launching Fidelity Bank UK Limited. She is passionate about SME growth, establishing the Fidelity International Trade & Creative Connect (FITCC) to foster business partnerships between Africa and global markets. A Harvard, Oxford, and Wharton alumna, her financial expertise and innovative banking solutions have positioned Fidelity as a leader in commercial and SME banking.
Moji Hunponu-Wusu
Founder, Woodhall Capital
In the fast-paced world of investment banking, Moji Hunponu-Wusu has built a name synonymous with excellence, integrity, and high-stakes financial strategy. With 25 years of experience, she founded Woodhall Capital Limited, a leading financial advisory firm specialising in securing international funding for governments, corporations, and financial institutions. Under her leadership, Woodhall Capital has raised over $5 billion and expanded globally, opening offices in London, Dubai, and Abuja. A master of contract negotiations and project finance, Hunponu-Wusu is not just a finance expert—she is a power player shaping Africa’s economic landscape.
Adaora Umeoji
Group Managing Director/CEO, Zenith Bank Plc
When Adaora Umeoji took the helm at Zenith Bank, she made history as the first female CEO in the bank’s decades-long legacy. With over 26 years of banking experience, her leadership has propelled Zenith Bank to record-breaking financial performance, solidifying its status as one of Africa’s most successful financial institutions. An alumna of Harvard Business School, Columbia Business School, and MIT Sloan, she has combined cutting-edge banking strategies with a commitment to women’s empowerment and financial literacy. Outside the boardroom, her Pink Breathe Cancer Foundation and Adorable Foundation provide crucial support for cancer patients and girl-child education. In 2023, she was recognised as a Humanitarian Service Icon—proof that her impact extends far beyond finance.
Bella Disu
Executive Vice Chairman, Globacom & CEO, Cobblestone Properties and Estates Ltd
With a career that spans telecommunications, real estate, and philanthropy, Bella Disu is a multi-dimensional leader reshaping industries. As Executive Vice Chairman of Globacom, she is helping to expand Nigeria’s telecommunications sector, driving innovation and connectivity. As CEO of Cobblestone Properties, she has overseen the development of luxury real estate projects, including Sisi Paris and Ile Oja Shopping Malls. A Harvard-trained strategist, Disu also sits on the board of Julius Berger Nigeria Plc and leads major corporate negotiations. Beyond business, her Bella Disu Foundation supports education and social development, while her SheGlows program empowers female professionals within Globacom.
Joke Bakare
Founder & CEO, Medplus Pharmacy Limited
When Joke Bakare launched Medplus Pharmacy in 1993, she pioneered the chain pharmacy concept in Nigeria—a move that reshaped healthcare retail in the country. What started as a single outlet has grown into over 40 branches nationwide, making Medplus a household name for authentic pharmaceuticals, health, and beauty products. A registered pharmacist with a keen eye for business trends, Bakare has successfully blended medicine with retail innovation, proving that pharmacy is not just about prescriptions but total wellness. Her commitment to quality, accessibility, and superior customer service has set Medplus apart, making it one of Nigeria’s most trusted healthcare brands.
OIL AND GAS
Uju Ifejika
Chairman/CEO, Brittania-U Nigeria Limited
Uju Ifejika is a trailblazer in Nigeria’s oil and gas sector, proving that ambition and resilience can break barriers. She started her career as a legal counsel at Texaco (now Chevron) and rose to become Regional Company Secretary, overseeing operations across multiple African nations. In 2007, she took a bold leap, founding Brittania-U, an indigenous oil exploration and production company. Today, her company is one of Nigeria’s top petroleum producers, achieving feats that rival global industry players. As one of the few women at the helm of an oil company in Africa, Ifejika continues to push boundaries, demonstrating that leadership in energy knows no gender.
Adesuwa Dozie
Vice Chairman, ExxonMobil Companies in Nigeria
As the Vice Chairman of ExxonMobil in Nigeria, Adesuwa Dozie holds one of the most powerful positions in the energy sector. With over 20 years of legal and corporate governance experience, she has advised on multi-billion-dollar transactions, driving investments and strengthening compliance across Africa’s energy industry. A graduate of Cornell Law School, she has worked across various sectors, from finance to oil and gas, before rising to the top of one of the world’s biggest energy firms. Beyond boardrooms, she is a passionate advocate for workplace diversity, ensuring that the next generation of female leaders in energy can rise even higher.
Daisy Danjuma
Chairman, South Atlantic Petroleum (SAPETRO)
Daisy Danjuma has navigated the worlds of law, politics, and energy with distinction. A former Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, she played a key role in advancing women’s rights and youth development during her time in office. Now, as Chairman of SAPETRO, one of Nigeria’s largest indigenous oil exploration companies, she leads the next phase of the company’s growth. A seasoned legal professional, she has held high-profile board positions across multiple industries, proving that leadership is her second nature.
Elohor Aiboni
Managing Director, Shell Nigeria Exploration & Production Company (SNEPCo)
In over 60 years of Shell’s operations in Nigeria, no woman had ever led one of its strategic subsidiaries—until Elohor Aiboni. An engineering powerhouse, she climbed the ranks from a field engineer to asset manager of Bonga FPSO, Nigeria’s first deep-water oilfield. Now, as MD of SNEPCo, she oversees offshore oil production that contributes significantly to Nigeria’s economy. Aiboni is a champion for women in STEM, proving that technical expertise and leadership can shatter any glass ceiling.
Winifred Akpani
Founder & CEO, Northwest Petroleum & Gas Company Limited
From a trainee accountant to the CEO of one of Nigeria’s largest petroleum companies, Winifred Akpani is a true visionary in the oil and gas sector. After honing her skills at Arthur Andersen (now KPMG) and Flame Petroleum, she took the bold step of founding Northwest Petroleum & Gas in 1998—with just ₦200,000 in startup capital. Today, her company has grown into a multi-million-dollar oil and gas giant, operating mega-filling stations, petroleum storage terminals, and crude oil export ventures. She remains deeply involved in quality assurance, business strategy, and the company’s expansion into the upstream sector. Akpani is a testament to the power of determination, strategic foresight, and industry expertise.
Oritsemeyiwa Eyesan
Executive Vice President, Upstream, Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) Ltd.
With a career spanning over three decades in Nigeria’s oil industry, Oritsemeyiwa Eyesan has scaled the ranks of NNPC to become one of its most influential leaders. Starting as a Material Traffic Officer, she has held various high-level positions in planning, procurement, and strategic operations, shaping policies that drive Nigeria’s upstream sector. Her expertise in corporate strategy, sustainability, and national energy policy has positioned her as a key player in Nigeria’s oil and gas transformation. Now, as Executive Vice President Upstream, she is overseeing some of NNPC’s most critical projects, ensuring that the corporation remains at the forefront of Africa’s energy evolution.
Olu Verheijen
Special Adviser to the President on Energy
A seasoned energy expert with nearly 20 years of experience, Olu Verheijen is a key figure in Nigeria’s energy transition strategy. Appointed as Special Adviser to the President on Energy, she is driving initiatives that maximise Nigeria’s oil, gas, and renewable energy potential. Before this, she founded Latimer Energy, an advisory firm that specialises in energy investments, commercial negotiations, and portfolio optimisation. She has worked with global energy leaders like Shell, Persistent Energy, and Moody’s, leading multi-billion-dollar M&A transactions. Beyond her corporate achievements, Verheijen is committed to renewable energy growth, inclusive energy policies, and bridging Africa’s energy gap.
FASHION, ARTS, CULTURE, MEDIA & ENTERTAINMENT
Folake Coker
Founder & Creative Director, Tiffany Amber
For 25 years, Folake Coker has been the creative force behind Tiffany Amber, a brand that redefined luxury African fashion. She was the first African designer to showcase at New York Fashion Week—twice, solidifying Nigeria’s place in global couture. From dressing celebrities to pioneering modern African womenswear, her legacy is unmatched. Beyond fashion, her brand is evolving into a full lifestyle empire, with expansions into spa, café, and home décor.
Banke Kuku
Founder & Creative Director, Banke Kuku Textiles
Banke Kuku isn’t just a designer—she is a textile revolutionary. Her bold, colourful prints and fusion of African and Western aesthetics have made her brand a must-have among fashion lovers. Over the years, her designs have become a cultural movement, earning her a devoted following known as the KukuTribe. From dressing Gabrielle Union to launching collaborations with global retailers, Banke is turning African textiles into high fashion. With international stockists and a growing presence in luxury fashion, she is leading a new wave of Afro-luxe design.
Jade Osiberu
Filmmaker & Founder, Greoh Studios
Jade Osiberu is Nollywood’s fearless storyteller. She made history with Gangs of Lagos, Amazon Prime’s first African Original, which topped streaming charts worldwide. From the box-office smash Brotherhood to the award-winning Isoken, her films break boundaries and challenge stereotypes. Her three-year exclusive deal with Amazon Prime marks a new chapter for Nigerian cinema, positioning Nollywood as a global force. With multiple AMVCA wins and a seat at The Oscars Academy, Osiberu is shaping the future of African storytelling.
Mo Abudu
CEO, EbonyLife Group
Mo Abudu isn’t just a media mogul—she is a cultural powerhouse. As the CEO of EbonyLife Group, she has revolutionised African storytelling on the global stage. From producing blockbuster films like “The Wedding Party” to signing groundbreaking deals with Netflix, Sony, and Westbrook Studios, she has redefined Nollywood’s global reach. The first African woman invited to join The Oscars Academy, she has also been recognised by Forbes as one of the world’s most powerful women. Her EbonyLife Creative Academy is nurturing a new generation of African storytellers, proving that when it comes to media, Africa is not just participating—it is leading.
Ayra Starr
Singer, Songwriter
Ayra Starr isn’t just a rising star—she’s a supernova blazing across the global music scene. Since making her debut in 2021, the Beninese-Nigerian singer-songwriter has redefined Afropop with her sultry vocals and genre-blending sound. Her chart-topping hit Bloody Samaritan made history as the first solo song by a Nigerian female artist to top the TurnTable Top 50. Then came Rush, an international sensation that became the most-streamed solo song by a Nigerian female artist on Spotify, earning her a Grammy nomination. From electrifying performances on The World Tour to collaborations with heavyweights like Wizkid, Chris Brown, and David Guetta, Ayra Starr is the future of African music—and the future is now.
Tems
Singer, Songwriter, Producer
Tems is the voice of a generation, a sonic powerhouse who has reshaped Afrobeats with her soulful, genre-defying sound. She first caught the world’s attention with Try Me before skyrocketing to global fame on Wizkid’s Essence—a song so infectious it became a Grammy-nominated anthem. With collaborations alongside Drake, Future, and Beyoncé, she has cemented her place as a force in global music. Her Grammy win for Wait for U with Future made her the first female Nigerian artist to take home the coveted award. Tems doesn’t just make music—she makes history, one hauntingly beautiful track at a time.
Funke Akindele
Filmmaker, Actress, Director, Producer
If Nollywood had a hall of fame, Funke Akindele would have her own wing. The actress-turned-director has not only dominated Nigerian cinema but also smashed box office records. From Jenifa—the movie that became a movement—to Every Body Loves Jenifa, Funke has redefined what’s possible in African filmmaking. With six AMVCA wins, a successful foray into politics, and her Jenifa Foundation empowering young creatives, she’s proof that talent and tenacity can rewrite the rules.
Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
Award Winning Author, Activist
Few writers shape culture the way Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie does. With bestsellers like Half of a Yellow Sun, Americanah, and We Should All Be Feminists, she has sparked global conversations on identity, race, and gender. Her TEDx talk became a cultural manifesto, her words sampled by Beyoncé, and her books required reading worldwide. In 2025, she returned to fiction with Dream Count, a powerful exploration of love and resilience. A literary icon and unapologetic feminist, Adichie is not just writing stories—she’s shaping history.
Uche Pedro
Founder & CEO, BellaNaija
Uche Pedro turned a simple blog into a digital media empire. As the founder of BellaNaija, she revolutionised how Africans consume lifestyle, fashion, and entertainment content. From BellaNaija Weddings to BellaNaija Style, her platforms reach millions, influencing trends and conversations across the continent. Named one of Forbes Africa’s 50 Most Powerful Women, she’s also a champion for social impact through #BNDoGood and PVCitizen, encouraging youth engagement in politics. Uche Pedro isn’t just documenting culture—she’s shaping it.
Nike Okundaye
Batik and Adire Textile Artist
A living legend in African art, Nike Okundaye has dedicated her life to preserving and elevating traditional Nigerian textiles. As the force behind the Nike Art Gallery—one of the largest in Nigeria—she has nurtured generations of artists while showcasing indigenous craftsmanship on the global stage. Her work has been exhibited in top museums worldwide, and her advocacy for women in the arts remains unparalleled. With a brush, a loom, and an unstoppable vision, she continues to weave Nigeria’s artistic legacy into the world’s cultural fabric.
Leadership and Mentorship
Nkiru Olumide-Ojo
Corporate Communications Leader, Founder, The Lighthouse Network
If storytelling is an art, then Nkiru Olumide-Ojo is a master painter. With a career spanning some of Africa’s biggest multinationals, she has elevated brands through strategic communications and corporate leadership. But her influence doesn’t stop at business—she founded The Lighthouse Network to mentor young professionals, particularly women, guiding them to navigate the corporate world with confidence and excellence. Whether she’s shaping billion-dollar brands or shaping the next generation of female leaders, Nkiru is always ahead of the curve.
Amina Oyagbola
Business Executive, Founder, WISCAR
Amina Oyagbola is the kind of leader who reshapes industries and leaves a lasting imprint. As a former top executive at MTN Nigeria, she played a pivotal role in shaping the company’s corporate strategy and workforce transformation. But Amina’s influence goes far beyond the boardroom. She founded WISCAR (Women in Successful Careers), a mentorship program that has empowered countless women to break into leadership roles. With expertise spanning law, banking, telecommunications, and corporate governance, she remains a formidable force in Nigeria’s business landscape. Amina isn’t just part of the conversation—she’s leading it.
Ibukun Awosika
Entrepreneur, First Female Chairperson, First Bank of Nigeria
Ibukun Awosika doesn’t just break ceilings—she builds new rooms entirely. As the first female Chairperson of First Bank of Nigeria, she redefined leadership in a space long dominated by men. An accomplished entrepreneur, she built The Chair Centre Group from the ground up, proving that Nigerian businesses can thrive on a global scale. Beyond business, she’s a passionate advocate for youth empowerment, women in leadership, and ethical governance. Whether mentoring the next generation of female executives or shaping policy discussions, Ibukun Awosika’s impact is undeniable.
Activism & Social Impact
Ndidi Nwuneli
CEO, President OneCampaign; Founder, LEAP Africa
Ndidi Nwuneli is building Africa’s future—one leader at a time. As the founder of LEAP Africa, she has empowered thousands of young changemakers, fostering leadership and entrepreneurship across the continent. At OneCampaign, she’s driving initiatives that tackle poverty and inequality head-on. Whether she’s advocating for women in agribusiness or launching initiatives with the Clinton Global Initiative, Ndidi’s mission remains clear: empower, uplift, and transform Africa.
Kemi Ibru
Obstetrician & Gynecologist, Founder, Women at Risk International Foundation (WARIF)
Dr. Kemi DaSilva-Ibru is on the front lines of the fight against gender-based violence. As the founder of WARIF, she has built a safe space for survivors of abuse, offering them medical care, counselling, and legal support. A renowned obstetrician and gynaecologist, she merges healthcare with activism, ensuring that women’s health remains a priority in Nigeria. With every life she touches, Kemi is proving that medicine isn’t just about healing—it’s about changing society for the better.
Bisi Fayemi
Feminist, Writer, Policy Advocate and Former First Lady of Ekiti State
Bisi Fayemi is a force of nature when it comes to gender equality. As a co-founder of the African Women’s Development Fund, she has empowered thousands of women across the continent, funding initiatives that uplift communities and drive systemic change. A fierce policy advocate, she has played a key role in passing groundbreaking gender laws in Nigeria. Whether she’s writing, speaking, or advocating, one thing is clear—when Bisi Fayemi fights for women, progress follows.
Aisha Yesufu
Socio-Political Advocate, Civic & Community Development Crusader
Aisha Yesufu is fearless. From leading the #BringBackOurGirls movement to standing at the forefront of Nigeria’s democracy struggles, she has become an unrelenting force for justice. A vocal critic of corruption, advocate for women’s rights, and champion for youth political engagement, Aisha refuses to be silenced. Her Let’s Do Business with Aisha initiative empowers female entrepreneurs, proving that activism and economic growth can go hand in hand.
Yemi Adamolekun
Founder, Enough is Enough Nigeria
Yemi Adamolekun is the voice that refuses to be silenced. As the Executive Director of Enough is Enough Nigeria (EiE), she has led some of the country’s most impactful civic engagement movements, encouraging young Nigerians to demand accountability from their leaders. From voter education to fighting for human rights, she has become a symbol of resistance against corruption and bad governance. Yemi isn’t just shaping conversations—she’s shaping Nigeria’s democratic future.
Awele Elumelu
Chairperson, Avon Medical Practice; Co-Founder, Tony Elumelu Foundation
Awele Elumelu is where healthcare meets impact. As the Chairperson of Avon Medical, she is revolutionising access to quality healthcare in Nigeria. As co-founder of the Tony Elumelu Foundation, she is empowering Africa’s next generation of entrepreneurs, ensuring they have the tools and funding to transform their communities. In health or business, Awele’s mission is clear—build, uplift, and leave a legacy of lasting change.
Toyin Saraki
Founder, Wellbeing Foundation Africa
For Toyin Saraki, maternal and child health isn’t just a passion—it’s a movement. Through Wellbeing Foundation Africa, she has worked to improve healthcare systems, reduce maternal mortality rates, and provide life-saving resources for women and children. With global partnerships spanning the UN, WHO, and the private sector, Toyin is proving that when women lead in healthcare, the entire society thrives.
Adaeze Oreh
Commissioner for Health, Enugu State; Founder, Adaeze Oreh Foundation
Dr. Adaeze Oreh is on a mission to revolutionise Nigeria’s healthcare system. As Enugu State’s Commissioner for Health, she drives policies that ensure quality medical care is accessible to all, especially underserved communities. Through the Adaeze Oreh Foundation, she extends this impact even further, tackling maternal health challenges and improving healthcare outcomes. Passionate, strategic, and relentless, Adaeze is setting new standards for medical excellence in Nigeria.
Oby Ezekwesili
Founder, FixPolitics Initiative & SPPG
A political powerhouse and economist, Oby Ezekwesili has spent her career fighting for transparency, governance, and social justice. As a former minister and co-founder of the Bring Back Our Girls campaign, she has mobilised global movements for change. Through the FixPolitics Initiative and School of Politics, Policy & Governance, she’s grooming a new generation of ethical leaders. Oby doesn’t just talk about change—she makes it happen.
TECHNOLOGY & INNOVATION
Odunayo Eweniyi
Founder, PiggyVest
Saving money has never been this cool. Odunayo Eweniyi is the brain behind PiggyVest, Nigeria’s leading digital savings and investment platform. By revolutionising financial literacy and inclusion, she’s helping millions of Nigerians take control of their finances. Named one of Forbes Africa’s 30 Under 30, Odunayo is also a passionate advocate for women in tech, proving that fintech isn’t just about numbers—it’s about impact.
Kofo Akinkugbe
Founder & CEO, SecureID
Kofo Akinkugbe is Nigeria’s queen of cybersecurity. As the founder of SecureID, she built the first indigenous smart card manufacturing company, revolutionising identity security across banking, telecommunications, and government sectors. Her company produces national ID cards and payment solutions that power Nigeria’s financial system. A pioneer in tech and a mentor for women in STEM, Kofo is securing Nigeria’s digital future, one innovation at a time.
Natasha Ibori
Founder, Uwanna Energy
In an industry dominated by men, Natasha Ibori is proving that women belong at the top. As the founder of Uwanna Energy, she is championing Africa’s transition to sustainable energy, providing renewable power solutions to homes and businesses across the continent. Her vision is bold: an Africa where clean energy drives economic growth, innovation, and environmental sustainability. With every project she spearheads, Natasha is lighting the way—literally and figuratively.
SPORTS
Tobi Amusan
Track & Field Athlete, 100m Hurdles
Tobi Amusan isn’t just fast—she’s record-breaking. In 2022, she became the first Nigerian to win a World Championship gold in the 100m hurdles, shattering records with a jaw-dropping 12.06 seconds. From the African Championships to the Commonwealth Games, she has dominated the track, inspiring a new generation of Nigerian athletes. As she gears up for the Paris 2024 Olympics, one thing is clear—Tobi Amusan is just getting started.
Asisat Oshoala
Footballer
Asisat Oshoala is a football icon. The five-time African Women’s Player of the Year has dominated club and international football, from leading Nigeria’s Super Falcons to glory to making history with FC Barcelona. A UEFA Women’s Champions League winner, she continues to shatter records, proving that African female footballers deserve the global spotlight. Off the pitch, she’s mentoring young girls through the Asisat Oshoala Foundation, ensuring the next generation of stars rises even higher.
Ese Brume
Track & Field Athlete, Long Jump
When Ese Brume takes off, the world watches. A long jump sensation, she made history at the Tokyo Olympics, bringing home a bronze medal and solidifying her status as one of Nigeria’s greatest athletes. With multiple African and Commonwealth titles, Ese has set records and broken barriers, proving that Nigerian athletes can dominate on the world stage. With her sights set on even bigger wins, she’s leaping towards a legacy that will inspire generations to come.
Rena Wakama
Head Coach, Nigeria’s Women’s Basketball Team
Rena Wakama is rewriting the history of African basketball—one game at a time. As the first female head coach to lead Nigeria’s women’s basketball team, D’Tigress, to an Afrobasket championship, she has shattered long-standing barriers and proven that women belong at the helm of sports leadership. But that’s not all—Wakama also made history as the first female coach to win the Afrobasket tournament since its inception in 1966, breaking a 57-year streak of male dominance in women’s basketball on the continent.
Despite being appointed just weeks before the tournament in Rwanda, Wakama orchestrated a flawless campaign, guiding D’Tigress to yet another African championship title. Under her leadership, the team maintained its reputation as a continental powerhouse, continuing its unbeaten streak and reinforcing Nigeria’s dominance in African women’s basketball.
