Boss Picks
The 2023 Presidential Race Begins…
PROF YEMI OSINBAJO
Professor Yemi Osinbajo, the current Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria wears the toga of a perfect, cerebral gentleman. Osinabjo who is the highest-ranking Yoruba office holder in the country today should be the easiest choice for the Yoruba if everything was equal. But everyone knows that in politics, things are usually not as they seem.
The Amiable VP, respected and learned, is no push over in any ramification. He has proved his mettle in the few areas he been allowed to perform, and knows his onions.
Many believe that the former Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice of Lagos has the capacity and ability to unite the nation, especially at this time that the drums of succession and banditry has filled the air.
What gives Osinbajo an edge is the fact that he has acted in the position of president and passed with flying colours.
When his principal, President Buhari was away for about 150 days on medical vacation, Osinbajo showed his stuff. He was firm and fair and took decisions that won him accolades even among his most vociferous critics. The positive impact his decisions had on the economy is a trump card he could use when the chips are down.
Osinbajo is not a hardcore politician, and many Nigerians believe that the country does not need another career politician at this time, but a tested technocrat, who has academic prowess and mental depth. Osinbajo is certainly the man.
Another plus for the number two man is the fact that having spent six years, and soon will be spending eight years, in the corridors of power, Osinbajo is now an insider, who knows the working of the presidency and can correct the wrongs of the present administration as well as conduct a veritable surgical operation on all malfunctioning areas.
Recall that in 2020, a group under the aegis of Friends of Prof gave out N1 million each to twenty businesses as Initiative for Small Businesses, to celebrate the 63rd birthday of Vice President Yemi Osinbajo. Observers say that the effort is only geared towards creating relevance for the Vice President as 2023 approaches.
And then of course, being a Christian, the issue of getting a northern running mate will not pose any challenge for the Redeemed Pastor.
On the downside, the VP is seen as lacking political capital even in his native Ogun State. Many also believe he may not have the muscle to take serious decisions and stand up to the Northern cabal.
They allege that his golden silence regarding the poor performance of the Buhari administration has shown that he may not be able to be his own man.
Many of our respondents are of the opinion that an Osinbajo Presidency will definitely be different from the current Osinbajo Vice Presidency.
BABATUNDE FASHOLA, SAN
From an outstanding performance as Governor of Lagos State, Babatunde Raji Fashola SAN, became a Super Minister, supervising three stand alone ministries: Power, Works and Housing.
He is seen as a silent performer and a technocrat who is trusted by President Buhari, and that explains why he was saddled with the responsibility of managing three powerful ministries in the first tenure of the administration.
His eight years as governor in Lagos, with executive powers, is enough to prove the kind of administrator he is, and would be as president. The fact remains that given the estate called Nigeria to run, he would do more than a good job to get the country back on track.
Though many say Fashola’s sterling profile shrank big time with his seeming poor performance as Super Minister, many still adjudge him as fit for the job of president.
They are of the opinion that as Minister, he had no free hand and thus as President, he would be able to exhibit his can-do spirit as he did when he ran Lagos.
DR KAYODE FAYEMI
The Governor of Ekiti State, John Kayode Fayemi, is another technocrat, who is well versed and equipped to take up the mantle of president.
Presently serving the second term of his tenure as governor, Dr Fayemi has first-rate credentials as a good administrator.
His supporters say that as the current Chairman, Nigeria Governors’ Forum, the next place for him after leaving office is Aso Rock. This position has also helped him forge alliances across the nation that could be critical in the quest for the presidency. And more importantly, it will be easier for him to mobilize his colleagues to his side at the APC primaries.
Furthermore. It is also said that his experience and expertise in Military Studies would be excellent points to consider since the country is currently battling severe insecurity challenges.
Also, Governor Fayemi’s persona as a fighter and a respecter of the rule of law are attributes that would add to his suitability for the big position.
The only problem with Fayemi is that as Minister of Solid Minerals, he had very little impact, many were of the opinion that if he could not excel at a small assignment like that, how would he be able to run the nation?
Again, his second coming in Ekiti State has not witnessed the kind of massive turn around that would position him as a performer par excellence.
AKINWUNMI AMBODE
Akinwunmi Ambode, the immediate past Governor of Lagos State, who was unceremoniously sent packing may be the dark horse of this race.
Ambode, who in his short stint stamped his signature on Lagos with many audacious and legacy projects, managed to gain the sympathy of the Presidency, the APC and the North.
He reportedly mobilized resources for the party during the general election and the party eggheads are still grateful till tomorrow.
An Accountant by training, who has supervised meticulously the accounts of Lagos State over the years, retiring as Accountant General, Ambode is a man who has shown capacity as an excellent manager of men and resources.
With his appointment as Member of the APC Contact and Strategy Committee, tongues have begun to wag about the possibility of an Ambode presidency. This appointment has birthed more appointments to his favour, signifying that he has a more stronger backing than his immediate Lagos constituency.
AMINU TAMBUWAL
Tambuwal would have gone down in the history books as one of the trusted if not the only trusted northerner among the lot seeking the seat of power but for his abandonment of the oligarchy when he defected to the PDP. However, he is still seen as the person who will work 100 per cent in the interest of the north.
As a prelude to the 2019 General Elections, The Boss authoritatively reported that the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP) was concluding plans to adopt Tambuwal, as its flag bearer.
Though that was not to be, the report was based on reliable sources which told TheBoss that the rank and file of the main opposition party is wooing the governor, who just before the 2015 election, ditched the party for the APC where he won the Sokoto State governorship election. Today, Tambuwal is back to the party with clear intentions of taking the party back to the power they lost.
Tambuwal, who until May 2015, was the Speaker of the House of Representatives, has maintained a low profile, speaking only when it is absolutely necessary even as the Chairman of the exalted PDP Governors’ Forum.
Touted as one of the most qualified to wear the crown of presidency come 2023 because of his youth and sundry achievements within a short period of time, Tambuwal was born on January 10, 1966 in Tambuwal village, Sokoto to Alhaji Waziri Tambuwal.
He attended Town Primary School, Tambuwal, Sokoto State, where he obtained Primary School Leaving Certificate in 1979 before moving to Government Teachers’ College, Dogon-Daji, where he equally obtained the Teachers Grade II Certificate in 1984.
Connected and versed in national and world politics, Tambuwal had his tertiary education at the rated Usman Dan Fodio University where he studied Law, and graduated with a LLB (Hons) degree in 1991. He was called to the bar in 1992 after completing his one year compulsory legal studies at the Nigerian Law School.
From the influential Sokoto Caliphate, those who see Tambuwal as a potential believe that his origin will stand him in good stead to gain the confidence of the Hausa/Fulani traditional rulers as well as gain the trust of the powerful political class. And this happen to be one of the major reasons he is thrust forward.
Another strong point that makes him an attractive candidate is the immense connection that he has across the country. On account of his former position as speaker he has contacts in all parts. In addition, his energy and youthfulness is a big plus. More so, the clamour for a youth president will somehow give me an edge over his closest rival.
Tambuwal’s immense support among the opposition’s inner circles stems from the fact that he is seen as an untainted politician, who can be firm when necessary and also has a squeaky clean image that will adhere him to floating voters.
He started learning the legislative ropes since 1999 while working as Personal Assistant on Legislative Affairs to Senator Abdullahi Wali, the then Senate Leader.
In 2003, he decided to run for a legislative seat as representative of the Kebbe/Tambuwal Federal Constituency. He was elected into the House of Representatives on the platform of the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP).
Articulate and savvy, Tambuwal held several positions in the House. In 2005, he became the Minority Leader of the House until he defected to the PDP. Upon his re-election to the House in 2007, he was also elected to the office of the Deputy Chief Whip.
Tambuwal’s experiences at the bar and in politics have propelled him to enviable of position of one of the most recognizable politicians in Nigeria.
But again, Tambuwal is a core northerner who has little or no influence in the south; either west east or south. His influence do not even cut across the north central. It is therefore, difficult for Tambuwal to pick the much desired ticket not to talk of defeating Buhari in 2019.
RABIU KWANKWASO
Among the political heavyweights in the ring of wrestling the presidency from the APC come 2023 is the strong man of Kano politics, Alhaji Rabiu Musa Kwakwanso. He is the subject behind the popular Kwankwasiyya Movement that has made and continued to make waves in the Northern political arena and beyond; the reputed former governor of Kano State, who posterity gave pass marks for his eight years stewardship in the ancient city-state.
The first time Kwakwanso gave a hint of his presidential intention was at the much attended funeral ceremony of late elder statesman, Dr. Alex Ekwueme in Anambra State, prior to the 2019 election. And since then, he has not looked back. Kwankwaso is a serious contender.
It would not be forgotten in a hurry that In the prelude to the 2015 General Elections, Kwankwazo narrowly lost to the incumbent President, Muhammadu Buhari, at the party primaries held at the Teslim Balogun Stadium in Lagos. He beat former Vice President, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar to the third place. Today, followers of the Kano politician believe that there is a paradigm shift in the affairs of things, and the coast is clear to give anyone else eyeing the president a trouncing.
His advantage lies in earlier approval by Ex-President Olusegun Obasanjo and former Military President, Ibrahim Badamosi Babangida, to take over from Buhari should his illness become irredeemable Though Buhari made it back hale and healthy, is not record yet that the plan has changed
According to an APC chieftain at the time: “They may have settled for Kwankwaso, because of certain factors; part of the reasons is that more than any other politician in the North, Kwankwaso is seen as commanding a large followership in Kano and most states of the North-West.’’
Kwankwaso is believed to have the vigor to carry the weight of governance if elected as president as he is said to be very hard working, philanthropic, charismatic, faithful and sincere concerning all his commitments. His followers are also of the view that he will also carry everybody along.
Kwankwaso was born on October 21,1956 in Kwankwaso village of Madobi Local Government Area of Kano State. He attended Kwankwaso Primary School, Gwarzo Boarding Senior Primary School, Wudil Craft School and Kano Technical College before proceeding to Kaduna Polytechnic where he did both his National Diploma, and Higher National Diploma. He did postgraduate studies in the United Kingdom a Middlesex Polytechnic (1982-1983) and Loughborough University of Technology (1983 -1985) where he got his master’s degree in Water Engineering. Kwankwaso was an active student leader during his school days and was an elected official of the Kano State Students Association.
Kwankwaso started work in 1975 at the Kano State Water Resources and Engineering Construction Agency (WRECA), serving as a civil servant for 17 years in various capacities and rising through the ranks as the principal engineer.
In 1992, Kwankwaso was elected as a member of House of Representatives representing Madobi Federal Constituency. His subsequent election as Deputy Speaker in the House brought him to the limelight of national politics.
During the 1995 Constitutional Conference, Kwankwaso was elected as one of the delegates from Kano, as a member of the Peoples Democratic Movement led by Yar’adua. He joined the PDP in 1998 under the platform of Peoples Democratic Movement in Kano led by Mallam Musa Gwadabe, Senator Hamisu Musa and Alhaji Abdullahi Aliyu Sumaila. He was elected governor of Kano State in 2007 and served for two terms before being elected as a senator. He defected from the PDP in 2014 and returned on July 24, 2018.
ABUBAKAR BUKOLA SARAKI
At 58, young and very experience, the President of Senate, Bukola Saraki, like Atiku, is one aspirant who can boast of structures all over the country capable of giving him a solid ground to canvass for votes from Nigerians. Among his strongest selling point is the disillusionment that has so encompassed the Nigerian people that they clamour for urgent attention.
In a bid to provide good and impartial leadership, Saraki has on many occasions come head to head with his former party, the APC, and that explained their continued loggerhead till the day he finally called it quits.
Dr. Saraki is reputed as a leader who does not have any qualms when it comes to working with and giving youths opportunity to prove their mettle. He has that uncanny ability to spot and deploy good talents. This is evident in his ability, during his tenure to give youths in their 30s and early 40s such as Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, Governor Abdulfatah Ahmed, Zakari Mohammed and Razak Atunwa who was the governorship candidate of the PDP in Kwara State among others the opportunity to flourish and showcase their potentials.
As a result of his sterling achievements, his colleagues did not think twice in electing him Chairman of Nigerian Governors Forum.
His achievements as governor and senate president speak for themselves, and are very glaring.
The major highlight of his administration as governor could be traced to Kwara becoming the first state to complete the Nigeria Independent Power Project, as well as re energised the Ganmo Power Station, Ilorin in collaboration with PHCN, connecting over 3750 rural communities to the national grid through the development and installation of 725 transformers and 7 substations.
Kwara also completed four electrification projects which meant power became stable 18–22 hours a day. 70% of people living in Kwara had access to electricity, compared to a national average in Nigeria of 30% at the time.
As Senate President, he has passed more bills within his first three years than any leader of the senate ever come close to doing for a whole tenure.
Abubakar Bukola Saraki was born on December 19, 1962 to the family of Olusola Saraki, a senator (1979–1983) and onetime Senate Leader of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and his mother Florence Morenike Saraki. He attended King’s College, Lagos, from 1973 to 1978, and Cheltenham College in the United Kingdom from 1979 to 1981 for his High School Certificate. He then studied at the London Hospital Medical College of the University of London from 1982 to 1987, where he obtained his M.B.B.S (London).
Saraki worked as a medical officer at Rush Green Hospital, Essex, from 1988 to 1989. He was a director of Société Générale Bank (Nig) Ltd from 1990 to 2000.
In 2000, President Olusegun Obasanjo appointed Saraki as Special Assistant to the President on Budget. During his tenure, Saraki initiated the Fiscal Responsibility Bill. Saraki also served on the Economic Policy Coordination Committee, where he was responsible for the formulation and implementation of several key economic policies for Nigeria.
In 2003, he ran for the office of governor of Kwara State on the platform of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), and won. He was sworn into office in May 2003. He ran again for re-election in 2007 and won his second term. As governor of Kwara, he led reforms in agriculture, health, education, finance and environment policy. One of his major achievements was inviting displaced white farmers from Zimbabwe to Kwara State and offering them an opportunity to farm. This led to the establishment of Shonga Farms programme, which is now being replicated across Nigeria. He also served as chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ forum.
NGOZI OKONJO-IWEALA
According to Wikipedia, Okonjo-Iweala was born on June 13, 1954 in Ogwashi-Ukwu, Delta State, Nigeria where her father Professor Chukwuka Okonjo is the Eze (King) from the Obahai Royal Family of Ogwashi-Ukwu.
Okonjo-Iweala was educated at Queen’s School, Enugu, St. Anne’s School, Molete, Ibadan, and the International School Ibadan. She arrived in the US in 1973 as a teenager to study at Harvard University, graduating magna cum laude with an AB in Economics in 1976. In 1981, she earned her Ph.D in regional economics and development from theMassachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) with a thesis titled Credit policy, rural financial markets, and Nigeria’s agricultural development. She received an International Fellowship from the American Association of University Women (AAUW), that supported her doctoral studies.
Okonjo-Iweala spent a 25-year career at the World Bank as a Development Economist, scaling the ranks to the Number two position of Managing Director, Operations between 2007 and 2011. She also served two terms as Finance Minister of Nigeria (2003–2006, 2011–2015) under the leadership of President Olusegun Obasanjo and President Goodluck Jonathan respectively. She also had a stint in the external affairs ministry as minister.
She is a seasoned economist and international development expert. She sits on the Boards of Standard Chartered Bank, Twitter, Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunization (GAVI), and the African Risk Capacity (ARC).
She is married to Dr. Ikemba Iweala, a neurosurgeon. They have four children – one daughter, Onyinye Iweala (AB, MD, PhD, Harvard) and three sons, Uzodinma Iweala (AB, Harvard, MD, Columbia), Okechukwu Iweala (AB, Harvard) and Uchechi Iweala (AB, MD, MBA, Harvard).
Okonjo-Iweala became a US citizen in 2019 after spending several decades working and studying in the United States. Many believe that given the ongoing trade tensions between China and the US, the disclosure may be a contributing factor in shaping China’s attitude towards her considering the trade conflict between the United States and China, the two largest economies in the world.
It is not every day that spotlessly honest Nigerians walk the space of leadership within the country’s administrative atmosphere. Akinwunmi Adesina is one Nigerian who has left the footprint of achievements, accomplishment and determination on the sands of time.
It is believed in various quarters that an Akinwunmi Adesina presidency will restore the lost glory of the country. The way he stood and fought the international community when his mandate to return as the President of African Development Bank (AfDB), is a clear indication of how astute a person he is, and will stand to uphold the dignity and progress of the nation.
Born to a Nigerian farmer in Ibadan, Oyo State, on February 6, 1960, Adesina attended a village school and graduated with a Bachelors in Agricultural Economics with First Class Honors from the University of Ife, Nigeria in 1981. He was basically the first student to be awarded this distinction by the university. He followed up his studies at Purdue University in Indiana, briefly returning to Nigeria in 1984 to get married.
Afterwards, he returned to school, obtaining his PhD (Agricultural Economics) in 1988 from Purdue, winning the Outstanding PhD Thesis for his research work in the bargain.
Adesina’s professional career kicked off proper in 1990, when he served as a Senior Economist at West African Rice Development Association (WARDA) in Bouaké, Ivory Coast. He served till 1995.
He worked at the Rockefeller Foundation since winning a fellowship from the Foundation as a senior scientist in 1988. From 1999 to 2003 he was the representative of the Foundation for the southern African area. And from 2003 until 2008, he was an Associate Director for food security.
In 2010, he was appointed Nigerian Agriculture Minister, a post he held till 2015 when the administration of former President Goodluck Jonathan ended.
Adesina was named as Forbes African Man of the Year for his reform of Nigerian agriculture. He introduced more transparency into the fertiliser supply chain. He also said that he would give away mobile phones to farmers but this proved too difficult as a result of lack of mobile network in rural areas.
In 2010, United Nations Secretary General, Ban Ki-moon appointed him as one of 17 global leaders to spearhead the Millennium Development Goals.
On May 28, 2015, Adesina was elected the presumptive President of the African Development Bank. He began his tenure of the office on 1 September 2015. He is the eighth president in the organization’s history, and the first Nigerian to hold the post.
He launched a strategy based on energy, agriculture, industrialization, regional integration and bettering Africans’ lives. The Board of Executive Directors approved the reorganization of the structure around these five priorities.
In September 2016, Adesina was appointed by United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon to serve as member of the Lead Group of the Scaling Up Nutrition Movement.[10]
In 2017, he was awarded 2017 World Food Prize.[11] Upon receiving the prize on October 21, 2017. Adesina donated the $250,000 he received to the development of African youth in agriculture.
Adesina is not all work; he is very close to his God. While at Purdue University, he, his wife, along with another couple, started a Christian group called the African Student Fellowship. He and his wife Grace have two children, Rotimi and Segun.
As an Agricultural Economist, Dr. Akinwumi Adesina has been a leader in agricultural innovation for over 30 years. He has contributed greatly to food security in Africa, aimed at improving the lives of millions currently living in poverty, throughout the African continent. The Sunhak Committee acknowledges Dr. Akinwumi Adesina’s achievements in promoting Good Governance of Africa, which boosts Africa’s capacity to feed itself and transform its total economies for generating wealth for millions of rural and poor African farmers.
At the Cape Town International Convention Center, the Sunhak Peace Prize Committee announced him as a co-winner of the 2019 Laureates for the Sunhak Peace Prize, the other person was Waris Dirie, 53 year-old world-class supermodel and anti-FGM activist.
Dr. Akinwumi Adesina has been a leader in agricultural innovation in Africa for over 30 years, bringing great improvement to Africa’s food security. contributing to Africa’s dynamic growth. His leadership is building stepping-stones for Africa’s dynamic growth.
Chairman of the Sunhak Peace Prize Committee, Dr. Il Sik Hong, stated that “the Sunhak Peace Prize was established based upon the vision of “One Family Under God.” The 2019 Sunhak Peace Prize gives special attention to peace and human development in Africa.”
Dr. Hong added “in order for us to build an era of peace and coexistence in the 21st century, we want to encourage continuous development in Africa. Africa is a rising star and its growth will contribute global progress and development throughout the 21st century.”
The Sunhak Peace Prize honors individuals and organizations who have made significant contributions to the peace and the welfare of the future generations. The Sunhak Peace Prize includes a cash prize totaling one million dollars. The 2019 Sunhak Peace Prize Award Ceremony took place in February, 2019 in Seoul, Korea.
Dr. Akinwumi Adesina pioneered major transformations in the agricultural field, including expanding rice production by introducing high yielding technologies, designing and implementing policies to support farmers’ access to technologies at scale, increasing the availability of credit for millions of smallholder farmers, attracting private investments for the agricultural sector, rooting out the corrupt elements in the fertilizer industry, and assisting in establishment of major agricultural policies for Africa’s green revolution.
The “Africa Fertilizer Summit,” which he organized in 2006, was one of the largest high-level meetings in Africa’s history that had a focus on solving Africa’s food issues. During this Summit, Dr. Adesina was instrumental in developing the “Abuja Declaration on Fertilizer for the African Green Revolution,” whereby the participants stated their commitment to the “eradication of hunger in Africa, by 2030.”
Dr. Adesina worked with various banks and international NGOs in order to create an innovative financing system, providing loans to small farmers, providing a way for them to rise out of poverty. This move leveraged $100 million in loans and provided opportunities for small farmers to increase their agricultural productivity, and their income.
Dr. Akinwumi Adesina currently serves as the president of the African Development Bank Group which plays a central role in Africa’s development. As an “economic commander” of Africa, he promotes the “High 5 Strategy” that include: light up and power Africa, feed Africa, industrialize Africa, integrate Africa and improve the quality of life for the people of Africa. As a result of his work, the lives of millions of people throughout Africa have been improved.
The incumbent governor of Rivers State is arguably the best performing governor in today’s Nigeria. With six years in his kitty, and two more years to go, he has proven that turning things around is not actually rocket science. Today’s Rivers State is an evidence that governance is possible, and a host of Nigerians believe he can reciprocate the gesture when he occupies the number one seat of power.
Wike has delivered back to back dividends of democracy, cutting across all sectors of administration and human endeavours, and has earned for himself the sobriquet, Mr Project.
An Ikwerre man from Rumuepirikom in Obio-Akpor, Rivers State, Wike was born on December 13, 1963. He is an astute politician, irrepressible lawyer and undaunted hard worker, who is the sixth and current Governor of Rivers State. He is a member of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party and had his university education at the Rivers State University of Science and Technology after passing through De-General E-Processing Center and Government Secondary School, Eneka at various times.
A lover of education, Wike made elaborate plans for educational reform. He declared public primary and secondary education free. This he did shortly after he took the oath of office to start his second term, and refused to bulge even as complaints trailed his decision.
In 2019, Wike through the State Ministry of Education announced free registration for participating locals of the state in the annual JAMB examination.
He was considered a superman when he kicked-off the construction of three (3) major flyovers simultaneously in Port Harcourt. The location of the flyovers are at Garrison, Rumoukoro and Artillery. These are all completed today, commissioned and in use. In fact, that superhuman effort became the prelude to unending projects which bestride the nooks and crannies of the state
In his words: “I can walk around the entire Rivers State today without security because my administration and the PDP have fulfilled their promises to transform the state for the benefit of all.
“I have not disappointed the people of Rivers State and I have not disappointed the party that gave me the privilege to contribute my own quarter to the development of the state.”
Many people refer to Wike as stubborn, fearless and unbridled, and of course he is not far from any these by the way he conduct his affairs to ensure the people of Rivers State have the best of administration, and that no one is cheated. His detractors have unknowingly given him pass marks, making him one of the best candidates for the Nigerian presidency come 2023.
You only need to take a short trip to Rivers State, especially the capital, Port Harcourt, to fully come to grasp the magic the Governor of the state, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike is performing. It will never be an exaggeration to say that the outspoken governor has not only handed over the dividend of democracy to his people within his six years spell as governor, but has done it with much panache and fanfare, giving glory to God for all he has been able to do.
Between December 21 and 24, 2020, some road projects constructed by Governor Wike’s administration under the urban renewal programame were inaugurated.
Beginning with the Emeyal Elelenwo, Ndoni and General Diriyai Streets, which were commissioned by the Governor of Adamawa State, Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, the team moved to the dualized Tombia Road and Amaji Street the next day, and they were commissioned by the Governor of Benue State, Samuel Ortom.
Following in the same track, Woji Road and Obaji Street were commissioned on wednesday, December 23 with the Governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde as Special Guest of honour, while the reconstructed Aker Base Road Rumuolumini was commissioned on Thursday December 24 by the Abia State Governor, Okezie Ikpeazu.
He is passionate about seeing a Nigeria that is better than what is presently obtainable.
“I regret that the yearning of Nigerians for better life, better education, health care system, basic infrastructure, have remained illusive because of the insensitivity of the incumbent Federal government,” he tweeted. He has therefore, not bothered to be on the good books of the ruling party, and has ceaselessly carried out his mandate to his people without fear or favour
Between December and date, the governor, has also commissioned projects running into tens, not to mention hundreds of others still under construction. some of these projects include but not limited to Rumuekini-Aluu Road, Dualized Saakpenwa-Bori Road, Bolo Internal Roads, Internal Roads In Isiokpo, Ikwerre LGA, Isiodu Road In Emohu LGA, Eleme-Afam (Oyigbo) Road, GRA Phase Two Roads, Rebisi Flyover, Government House Clinic, which has been ‘ambitiously equipped to keep leaders at home instead of flying abroad for medicals, Port Harcourt Pleasure Park, Ecumenical Centre, Cinema and Restaurant.
The new Government House Clinic is fully equipped with state-of-the-art operating theatre, top anesthesia ventilator, ICU Room, Endoscopy Suite, MRI Machines, Laboratory, Pharmacy and 24 hours ambulance service to serve elder statesmen, Government House personnel, judges and legislators. The clinic is endowed with a host of other equipment that perfectly conform to international standards.
Wike confessed that he was privileged to achieved all he has achieved because “no godfather is controlling me”.
Wike is not just a good party man, but very cordial. Behind that tough look is a man, who cares about his fellow man. In March, the Governor hosted some his colleagues from the Niger Delta including Edo State governor, Godwin Obaseki, Delta State governor, Ifeanyi Okowa, and Bayelsa State governor, Douye Diri during the commissioning of the Real Madrid Football Academy, which was done by the honorable Sports Minister, Mr. Sunday Dare. It was one moment of togetherness devoid of party politics; that is the vintage Wike. It must be noted that all majority of his projects have been commissioned by different notable personalities from across the country, and across party affiliations.
With humility, he has said that he is rushing projects ‘so as not to leave liabilities for my successor’. He is married to Eberechi, a high court justice, and they are blessed with three adorable children.
This former Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria is without question an administrator par excellence, whose footprints in the sands of time, have elevated to the height of the most preferred in our today’s society. He is one of the reputable exports from the southeast, a position that may work against him as the 2023 presidential race gains momentum, in addition to not belonging to any of the two major political parties.
Born in Lagos on May 7, 1963 to a diplomat father by virtue of his profession, Isaac Moghalu, and a school teacher mother, Vidah Moghalu, the Kingsley spent his early childhood in Switzerland and Washington DC, where his father was posted.
Kingsley received his secondary school education at Eziama High School, Aba, Government College Umuahia, and Federal Government College Enugu. He later attended the University of Nigeria, Nsukka and earned a Law degree in 1986, and the Barrister at Law from the Nigerian Law School, Lagos.
A man with a great quest for learning, Kingsley obtained a Master of Arts degree in 1992, at The Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy, Tufts University, Massachusetts, USA where he was the Joan Gillespie Fellow and a research assistant in the International Political Economy programme. He later obtained his Doctor of Philosophy in International Relations at the London School of Economics and Political Science at the University of London. As Professor of International Business and Public Policy at The Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy he has taught, trained and inspired graduate students from more than 40 countries in North America, Europe, Africa.
Kingsley also earned the International Certificate in Risk Management from the Institute of Risk Management in London, and received advanced executive education in Macroeconomics and Financial Sector Management, Corporate Governance, and Global Strategic Leadership at the International Monetary Fund Institute, Harvard University’s Kennedy School of Government, Harvard Business School, and the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania. He is a niche higher than a bookworm, a classical egghead.
He joined the United Nations in 1992. His first recorded assignment was in Cambodia as a UN human rights and elections officer with the United Nations Transitional Authority in Cambodia.
Having distinguished himself in the field, he was a year later, appointed the political affairs officer in the Department of Peacekeeping Operations at the UN Headquarters in New York. He is for all intent and purpose, a well travelled professional, and by all means an international man.
A global leader who has made contributions to the stability, progress and wealth of nations, societies and individuals across such domains as academia, economic policy, banking and finance, entrepreneurship, law, and diplomacy, he served in the former Yugoslavia as Political Advisor to the special representative of the UN Secretary-General in Croatia between 1996 and 1997. He was assigned as legal adviser to the United Nations International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda (UNICTR) in Arusha, Tanzania, in 1997 and later promoted to the role of the international tribunal’s spokesman.
As special counsel and spokesman, he was responsible for policy development, strategic planning and external relations. The UNICTR delivered the first-ever judgement by an international court on genocide.
In 2002, the finance expert was appointed to the World Health Organization in Geneva, Switzerland, as head of global partnerships and resource mobilization at The Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria (GFATM), a public-private international development finance organization and social investment fund with $20 billion in assets and investments in 140 developing and middle-income countries. He was a member of the Global Fund’s senior management group that set corporate strategy, a member of the risk management committee, and was promoted to the rank of director in 2006.
In 2006, United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan appointed Moghalu as a member of the UN General Assembly-mandated Redesign Panel on the United Nations Internal Justice System. Working at the UN Headquarters in New York for six months in the first half of 2006, the Redesign Panel reviewed and made recommendations on how to improve the system of administration of justice at the United Nations.
The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) in Geneva, Switzerland appointed Kingsley him, in 2017, as a member of its high level Independent Expert Group on Financing for Development. The Expert Group reviewed and made recommendations on how to better achieve the Sustainable Development Goals and effective domestic resource mobilization for development in developing countries.
In December, 2008, Moghalu called it quits with the United Nations, and went ahead to establish Sogato Strategies S.A., a global strategy and risk consultancy, in Geneva.
While Moghalu was making international impact oversees, his activities were monitored back home as the then President, Umaru Yar’Adua, appointed him Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria in November 2009 in recognition of his sterling services. He was saddled with the responsibility of managing Financial System Stability in addition to Operations, with supervisory responsibility for currency and branch operations, payment systems, and the management of Nigeria’s foreign reserves of $37 billion. Among his avalanche of achievements was leading the rollout of payment systems reforms including the development and introduction of the unique identifier Bank Verification Number (BVN).
It was also during his tenure that Islamic (non-interest) banking was introduced. He defended the decision explaining that it was one of several measures to expand financial inclusion and not Islamization agenda. He was a member of the Bank’s Monetary Policy Committee that brought inflation down into single digits.
His large image has seen him serving as a member of the board of directors of Opportunities Industrialization Centers International in Philadelphia, a non-profit global entrepreneurship development organization founded by the late US civil rights leader, Reverend Leon Sullivan.
He was also a member of the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC), the Committee of Governors (CoG), and the Board of Directors of the CBN, and also served as a member and representative of the CBN in the Economic Management Team of President Goodluck Jonathan. He served as the Chairman of the Boards of Directors of the Nigerian Export-Import Bank (NEXIM) and the Financial Institutions Training Centre, and as a member of the boards of the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria, Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), and the Kuala Lumpur-based Alliance for Financial Inclusion (AFI). He also represented the CBN as a member of the Board Executive Committee of the International Islamic Liquidity Management Corporation, headquartered in Kuala Lumpur.
He has been known to stand for truth and professionalism, and this at one time put him at loggerheads with his boss, Lamido Sanusi, who was the CBN governor. Sanusi was to praised his contributions later, and endorsed his presidential ambition, the same way the Ooni of Ife, Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi and nobel laureate, Wole Soyinka, did during the 2019 Presidential election.
In October 2019, he resigned his membership of the Young Progressives Party, to focus in the immediate future on advocacy for electoral reform through the non-partisan citizens movement To Build a Nation (TBAN).
In 2019, the Federation of West African Freelance Journalists Association named him “Nigerian Political Icon of the Year” in what the association called “the Nigerian Political Achievers Hall of Fame”.
A visionary thinker and philanthropist, Moghalu has founded the Isaac Moghalu Foundation, a non-profit organisation that provides support for literacy, educational institutions, and access to education for underprivileged children in rural communities in Nigeria. Moghalu has all the pluses.
DONALD DUKE
He was born on September 30, 1961 in Calabar to Henry Etim Duke, the second indigenous and longest ever serving Controller General (then referred to as Chairman board of Customs and excise duties) of the Nigerian Customs service.
He had his education at Corona School, Lagos and Federal Government College, Sokoto, before attending Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, where he bagged LLB degree in 1982. He got his B.L in 1983 from the Nigerian Law School, Lagos and a L.L.M. in Business Law and Admiralty in 1984 from University of Pennsylvania.
He was once quoted as saying that “What got the military out of power was not democracy but the dreadful state of the economy. If we, the democratic government, cannot deliver food for the mass of people we can forget about democracy.” He is desirous of the best for the people of Nigeria.
Duke received praises for his contributions to the fields of agriculture, urban development, government, environment, information and communication, investment drive, and tourism and making Calabar the cleanest city in Nigeria during his tenure.
The Obudu Ranch International Mountain Race which attracted contestants and visitors from other countries, is to his credit. In 2005, he created a special reserve fund for the state meant to ‘‘hedge against economic downturn, and the inevitable rainy day’’. He is absolutely visionary.
He also initiated the Calabar Carnival which started in 2004 and is popularly referred to as “Africa’s biggest street party” as well as the Tinapa Resort project as a way to boost business and tourism in the state.
Duke announced that he would run for the presidency in the 2007 presidential election, but stepped aside in favour of the eventual winner, Umaru Yar’Adua. He is bent on repeating the feat that saw become the toast of Cross River people and Nigerians at large when he eventually mounts the exalted Aso Rock seat.
CHIBUIKE ROTIMI AMAECHI
The total personality of two term Governor of Rivers State, and current Minister of Transport, Rotimi Chibuike Amaechi, is captured in this brief description by the Governor of Kaduna State, Mallam Nasir El-Rufai:
“Amaechi’s key leadership quality is his sense of inclusion, he likes to bring everyone on board, he loves teamwork, he empowers people to put in their best, he doesn’t pretend to know it all or try to do everything.
“He is one of the few politicians from the Niger Delta that is Pan Nigeria.
“I think in the history of Nigeria there hasn’t been any Minister of Transportation that has been able to achieve the landmark Amaechi has achieved in very difficult circumstances.
“I am very proud of you, am very proud to be associated with you, I am a beneficiary of your friendship, your love and your generosity.
“You have helped me a lot in my campaign, you have raised money for me, you have given me ideas on how to be a better politician and I have learnt a lot from you.
“I am confident that if and when Nigeria is looking for a leader that will take us to a higher level, you will be up there on the frontline among those that will be counted.”
And of a fact, Amaechi cannot be missing from the list of those seeking to be president come 2023. And of course, his close relationship with President Buhari is a plus for his quest to move into the vllla. Little wonder that he is the only Transport Minister to be reappointed.
Born on May 27, 1965 in Ubima, Ikwerre Local Government Area of Rivers State to the family of the late Elder Fidelis and Mary Amaechi, he had his early education at St Theresa’s Primary School between 1970 and 1976 before proceeding to Government Secondary School Okolobiri, where he obtained his West African Senior School Certificate in 1982. He was subsequently admitted into the University of Port Harcourt, and graduated in 1987 with a Bachelors of Arts degree (Honours) in English Studies and Literature. His political sagacity was nurtured while in the university, and he rose to become the President of the National Union of Rivers State Students (NURSS). Since then, he has not looked back on politics. He is a completely cooked administrator.
Upon graduation, Amaechi completed the mandatory National Youth Service Corps in 1988, and kick started his career almost immediately when he joined Pamo Clinics and Hospitals Limited owned by Peter Odili, where he worked until 1992. It was at this stage that he earned the trust of Mr Odili with his loyalty, diligence and commitment. It was not a surprise that he found himself in the corridors of politics as political events began to unfold, under the tutelage of Peter Odili. He was later to emerge Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly while Odili was the state governor, and both enjoyed the best of relationships.
As civil rule returned in 1999, signaling the beginning of the 4th Republic, he contested and won a seat to become a member of the Rivers State House of Assembly to represent his Ikwere constituency.
His accumulated experience in grassroots politics and went on to become the Chairman of Nigeria’s Conference of Speakers of State Assemblies. He was reelected into the State House of Assembly in May 2003 and was also re-elected as the Speaker.
Amaechi is known to use the instrumentality of the judiciary to fight his battles. In 2003 when the National Assembly moved to hijack the legislative functions of the State house of Assembly as enshrined in the constitution, he went to the Supreme Court and got a verdict stipulating that the control and supervision of local government is the prerogative of the State House of Assembly.
In 2007, he contested and won the Peoples Democratic Party Rivers State Governorship primary, but his name was substituted by the party. Again, like a man of peace, he went to court, and won. He became governor on October 26, 2007, without campaigning or standing for election. He was re-elected for a second term of four years in April 2011.
On November 27, 2013, he defected to the All Progressives Congress, and was the Campaign Director for General Muhammadu Buhari at the prelude to the 2015 election, and after the victory, he was appointed the Minister of Transportation, a position he holds till date.
In 2019, he was found worthy to again head re-election campaign of Buhari. He succeeded, and was re-appointed Minister for Transport.
Amaechi’s eight years as the Speaker of Rivers State House of Assembly saw the best of harmonious relationship between the legislature and judiciary, paving the way for wholesome development of the state.
Amaechi may have made enemies in the course of his duty, especially with the scandalous removal of former Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA), Hadiza Bala Usman. He is also at loggerheads with the government of his home state, Rivers. These can work against his ambition.
YAHAYA BELLO
Governor Yahaya Bello of Kogi State
Kogi State governor, Yahaya Bello, has already declared his presidential ambition and he stands as one of the youngest office holder to take a shot at occupying the Aso Villa.
Born on June 18, 1975 in Okene, Kogi State, as the youngest of six children, Bello attended Local Government Education Authority (Nigeria) (LGEA) Primary School, Agassa in Okene LGA where he was the headboy in his final year. He later attended high school at Agassa Community Secondary School, Anyava, Agassa-Okene and obtained his Junior Secondary School Certificate Examination (JSSCE) and Senior Secondary Certificate Examination (SSCE) certificates from Government Secondary School, Suleja-Niger State in 1994. Bello studied at Kaduna State Polytechnic Zaria in 1995 and obtained an accounting degree from Ahmadu Bello University ABU Zaria in 1999. Yahaya Bello further enrolled for a Masters program in Ahmadu Bello University in Zaria where he obtained Masters in Business Administration (MBA) in 2002. Bello became a chartered fellow of the Association of National Accountants of Nigeria in 2004.
Governor Bello, who is a lover of sport and fitness, especially boxing, will be the toast of the youths if they mean business to wrestle power from the elderly.
However, the governor, who came to power courtesy of the death of Abubakar Audu, after winning the election, is not well reputed on the international scene. In 2020, he was among politicians placed on visa ban by the United States Department of State for undermining democracy in Nigeria.
He came head to head against a government agency during the COVID-19 pandemic, refusing the NCDC access to his state, saying he does not believe in the existence of the disease., and that it was ‘an artificial creation’. He has maintained that claim till date.
“Whether medical experts and scientists, believe it or not, COVID-19 is out to shorten the lifestyle of the people, it is a disease propagated by force for Nigerians to accept,” he was quoted as saying.
NASIR EL-RUFAI
Born on 16 February 1960 to a Fulani family in Daudawa, El-Rufai is serving his second term as the Governor of Kaduna State, and considered a presidential material for 2023.
Though he grew up as an orphan, whose father died when he was just eight years, El-Rufai is well educated. He attended Barewa College with late President Umaru Yar’Adua, who he criticised heavily in later years. In 1976, he graduated at the top of his class, winning the “Barewa Old Boys’ Association Academic Achievement” Trophy. before attending Ahmadu Bello University in Zaria, where he received a bachelor’s degree in quantity surveying with first class honours.
In 1984, he received a Master of Business Administration from Ahmadu Bello University. He has since attended several professional and post-graduate programs, including the Georgetown School of Foreign Service of Georgetown University in Washington, D.C and programs on privatization and leadership. In fact, he is well grounded, and has all it takes to be an aristocratic president
In August 2008, he received a law degree from the University of London; and a master’s degree in public administration from the John F. Kennedy School of Government of Harvard University in June 2009. He also received the Kennedy School Certificate in Public Policy and Management having spent 11 months as an Edward A. Mason Fellow in Public Policy and Management from July 2008 to June 2009.
In 1982, he founded El-Rufai & Partners, a quantity surveying consulting firm with three partners which he managed until 1998.
In 1998, following the death of military head of state, General Sani Abacha, his successor General Abdulsalami Abubakar appointed him as an economic advisor. In this role he worked with the World Bank and International Monetary Fund.
In November 1999, he was appointed the Director of the Bureau of Public Enterprises, and secretary of the National Council of Privatisation where he spear-headed the privatisation of several government owned corporations alongside Vice President Atiku Abubakar.
In July 2003, he was appointed the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory. During his tenure, he presided over a radical transformation of the federal capital earlier riddled with corruption and vast deviation from the original masterplan. With the establishment of the Abuja Geographic Information System, the capital became the first municipality in Nigeria with a computerised land register and information system.
The Kaduna governor carries trust wherever he goes, but his ability to manage ethnic crises in the state, has left sour taste in the mouth of most of his admirers. Many believe that he may not be a president for all as they see him as taking sides in the conflict that has engulfed the state in recent times.
PETER OBI
Proudly indefatigable, technologically savvy and former two term governor of Anambra State, Peter Obi, better known as ‘Okwute’ (Rock), is another important name on the presidential list.
Peter Obi is unassuming, amiable and boasts of a track record of prudence, performance and achievement.
Evidence of his shrewd administrative skills is the claim that when he was leaving office as Governor of Anambra State, a whopping $230 billion was sitting in the treasury and consequently inherited by his successor, Willie Obiano. The amount was broken down as follows: $156 million in bank, N25 billion cash and N25 billion in local investment.
The soft-spoken businessman born in 1961, was the Chairman of Nigeria Security and Exchange Commission. Obi is famous for being one of the few men to have swam in the murky waters of Nigerian politics and have come out smelling like roses. He fought the godfathers of Anambra politics and dealt decisively with rogue elements who have been feeding fat on government.
A corporate titan, he has held such positions as Chairman of Next International Nigeria Ltd, Chairman and Director of Guardian Express Mortgage Bank Ltd, Guardian Express Bank Plc, Future View Securities Ltd, Paymaster Nigeria Ltd, Chams Nigeria Ltd, Data Corp Ltd and Card Centre Ltd.
At the twilight of his professional financial career, he became the youngest Chairman of Fidelity Bank Plc.
In 2019, he was considered by Atiku Abubakar as running mate based on his very amiable disposition, uncanny acumen for stopping unnecessary spending, never-say-die spirit and ability to connect effortlessly with the youths.
He appears the likeliest benefactor if at the end of the day, Nigerian political gladiators agree that power should shift down east,
Obi has a combination of political sagacity and sterling achievements as businessmen and economy minded person, and is fully prepared to hit the ground running from day one as President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
OBY EZEKWESILI
She is simply an amazon, and can rightly be described as experience and performance personified, having served in high profile positions at both national and international stages.
Oby Ezekwesili holds a Bachelor degree from the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Master degree in International Law and Diplomacy from the University of Lagos, as well as a Master of Public Administration degree from the Kennedy School of Government, Harvard University. She trained with the firm of Deloitte and Touche and qualified as a chartered accountant. She is simply many things in one.
She worked with Professor Jeffrey Sachs at the Center for International Development at Harvard prior to serving as Federal Minister of Solid Minerals and later as Federal Minister of Education. Subsequently, she served as the Vice-President of the World Bank’s Africa division from May 2007 to May 2012.
She was a co-founder of Transparency International, serving as one of the pioneer directors of the Global Anti-Corruption body based in Berlin, Germany.
Her eye for details earned her the nickname Madam Due Process when she served as the pioneer head of the Budget Monitoring and Price Intelligence Unit during Obasanjo’s administration. She was the architect of the Bureau for Public Procurement legislation, the Nigeria Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (NEITI) legislation, and the new Minerals and Mining legislation during her six and a half years stint in government. She is full of initiatives.
In 2012, she successfully completed her stint as the World Bank Vice-President (Africa Division). As Vice President, she was in charge of the bank’s operations of 48 countries in Sub-Saharan Africa and supervised a lending portfolio of over $40 billion.
He was born on February 16, 1971, and is versed in human rights activism and pro-democracy campaigns. He is a former presidential candidate, and founder of an online news agency Sahara Reporters.
He is from Ese-Odo, Ondo State but was born in the Niger Delta region of the country, where he was also raised in a polygamous home with sixteen children. Sowore’s passion and desire in media was propelled during the military rule in Nigeria.
A graduate of Geography and Planning at the University of Lagos, he spent six instead ogf the mandatory four years (1989 to 1995) as his academic programme was extended by two extra years after being expelled twice for political reasons and student activism. He was the President of the University of Lagos Student Union Government between 1992 and 1994 where he was involved in anti-cultism and anti-corruption advocacy. He also holds a master’s degree in Public Administration from Columbia University.
He is the leader/founder of the RevolutionNow group, and has been arrested by the police and DSS on many occasions. On August 3, 2019, Sowore was arrested by the Nigerian State Security Service (SSS) for alleged treason after calling for a protest.
He contested the presidency in 2019. He is the firebrand type, who if elected will definitely call a spade a spade.
Born Bilkisu Abiodun Motunrayo Omobolanle Adekola on December 24, 1962, as the third child of seven children in Ibadan, Ibukun completed her primary and secondary school education at St. Paul’s African Church Primary School, Lagos and Methodist Girls’ High School, Yaba respectively before she proceeded to the University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University) where she graduated with a B.Sc in Chemistry. She holds post graduate and MBA certificates upon the completion of several business programmes at the Lagos Business School and IESE Business School – University of Navarra.
She is a fellow of the African Leadership Initiative and Aspen Global Leadership Network, Ibukun Awosika is a member of the Nigerian Economic Summit Group, member of the board of Nigerian Sovereign Wealth Fund and former Chairperson, Board of Trustees of Women in Management, Business and Public Service. In 2011, she co-founded the Afterschool Graduate Development Centre, a career centre established in order to checkmate the high rate of unemployment in Nigeria.
A boardroom wizard, Awosika has chaired so many mind-blowing meetings, and has achievements as her end result at every step.
BABAGANA ZULUM
This is one governor who hit the ground running immediately on assumption of office as the Governor of Borno State. He belongs to the young generation of administrators, who can rightly be termed firebrand.
Born on August 25, 1969, Zulum inherited a crises ridden state, but has steadfastly turned it around. He refused to be an absentee governor, but has been everywhere, arranging and supervising governance. Here is a man, who has not allowed the disappointment of terrorism becloud his promise of democracy dividend delivery in every sector.
He had his elementary and secondary education at Mafa Primary School from 1975 to 1980 and Government Secondary School, Monguno from 1980 to 1985 respectively. Zulum studied at the University of Maiduguri, where he obtained a degree in Agriculture Engineering after which he served as a youth corps member with Katsina State Polytechnic. He proceeded to the University of Ibadan from 1997 to 1998, where he obtained a master’s degree in Agriculture Engineering. In 2005, he enrolled for a PhD in Soil and Water Engineering with the University of Maiduguri which he completed in 2009.
Zulum has proven to be a fearless leader, taking headlong the menace of terrorism and civil service inanities, and he has achieved everything he set out to do. His attitude is deserving of a presidential material.
SENATOR IBIKUNLE AMOSUN
Presently in the National Assembly as a Senator representing Ogun Central, Ibikunle Amosun fca is arguably the closest southwest politician to President Buhari. He is known to be a good networker, and cannot be said to have much regard anyone, no matter how invincible.
Senator Amosun is a silent operator and has used his position to better the lots of Ogun Indigenes at that Federal level. He is also well respected by many in the party.
Despite his political clout, Amosun, according to our respondents, may just not have the political muscle to get the backing of the heavyweights of the south as was seen during the Gubernatorial primaries of the APC where his candidate of choice was roundly beaten.
That is not all, as a Muslim, he may also have the muslim-muslim challenge that the APC would rather avoid.
Amosun may have to come back home and put his house in order, and not depend on Buhari’s influence if he intends to actualise a dream bestriding the Aso Rock Villa in 2023.
YAKUBU DOGARA
Yakubu Dogara’s chances, according to most analysts appears brightest, as he seems to be the only Christian northerner, whose eyes, remotely or otherwise, are on the plum number one position.
He was born to Yakubu Ganawuri and Saratu Yakubu on December 26, 1967. He began his education in 1976 at Gwarangah Primary School in the then Tafawa Balewa Local Government Area of Bauchi State. Upon graduation in 1982, he proceeded to the Bauchi Teachers’ College for his secondary education, and obtained a Grade II Teachers’ Certificate in 1987. In 1988, he went on to the University of Jos, Plateau State, from where he obtained a Bachelor of Law (LLB Hons.) degree in 1992.
Wikipedia reports that ‘from 1992 to 1993, Dogara was a student at the Lagos campus of the Nigerian Law School and was called to the bar in 1993. He later obtained a Masters (LLM) in International Commercial Law at Robert Gordon University, Aberdeen, Scotland.
“Dogara also attended a course on Managing and Leading Strategic Change in 2006, the Oxford University Course on Negotiation in 2013, and a course on Leadership in Crisis at the Harvard Kennedy School in 2014. In October 2016, after he had become Speaker of the House of Representatives, he attended a course on transformational leadership in Cambridge University, United Kingdom.
“He first took up employment in April 1988 as a teacher at the ATBU Staff School in Bauchi. In 1993, during the mandatory National Youth Service Corps, he served at NCCF, Akwa Ibom state. Upon completion of the NYSC programme in 1994, he went into private legal practice until 2005 when he was appointed Special Assistant to the Minister of State for Transport.
“He held this position until 2006, when he decided to contest to represent the Bogoro/Dass/Tafawa-Balewa constituency at the Federal House of Representatives. His bid proved successful and he has been a member of the House since 2007.
“Dogara is a strong advocate for the independence of the legislature, and has been a member of the House of Representatives since 2007. His legislative interests include tenancy, regulating monopolies, company law, and intellectual property.”
In the midst of all the agitations for preferred candidates to assume the presidency of Nigeria, not a few Nigerians are calling on celebrated journalist and accomplished philanthropist, Chief Dele Momodu, to dust his political gown, and join the race. Their reason is based on the philanthropic gestures which the widely travelled father of four and man of the people has exhibited in recent times, using his Ovation Palliatives medium.
Much as Momodu has told as many that cared to listen that he is not interested in the exalted position since his first attempt in 2011, the generality of the public has maintained that Momodu deserves a shot at the presidency. Bob Dee, as he is fondly called, was born on May 16, 1960.
Whether he will yield or not, is probably a story for another day, but the big question now is, who will be the next President of Nigeria come 2023?
By Eric Elezuo, Morakinyo Ajibade and Ruth Akpan
Nigerian women are among the best professionals the world can boast of. They are represented in every facet of human endeavour, and known to excel in their chosen terrains.
As a result, and in the spirit of the 2026 International Women’s Day celebrated worldwide, and themed Give to Gain, The Boss Newspaper presents 100 and among host of celebrated female Nigerian professionals, who has created their own worlds, and broken the proverbial glass ceilings for the benefit of humankind.
In no particular order, they are:
OYINDAMOLA ADEYEMI
She is the Chairman of Still Earth Group, and earned her B.Sc Degree in Political Science from the University of Abuja, and an M.Sc Degree in Political Economy and Development from the same University and is also an alumna of the prestigious Harvard Business School, Massachusetts, Boston, after attending the Owner/ President Management Program.
Adeyemi certainly has enough grounding to aspire to the top echelon of the business world where many turn problems to opportunities.
The reserved technocrat with both beauty and brains was born and raised in Gombe State, North Eastern Nigeria to a Yoruba father from Ondo State and Hausa/Fulani Mother.
Her multilingual, multi-ethnic upbringing has made her a bridge builder which enables her to feel free at home in the Northern or South Western part of Nigeria.
Fluent in both Hausa and Yoruba, Ms Adeyemi has built a solid reputation as one of the few entrepreneurs without an ethnic bias, which makes her such a distinctive and appealing business leader.
KEMI NANDAP
Kemi Nanna Nandap was born on 3 June 1966 in Zaria, Kaduna State with roots in Ogun State. She attended Corona Primary School, Jos and Therbow Primary School, Zaria for her first school leaving certificate. Nandap attended St. John’s College, Jos and Yejide Girls’ Grammar School, Ibadan, Oyo State for her secondary school leaving certificate.
Nandap holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Biochemistry from the University of Ilorin. She also earned a Master of Science in International Relations and Strategic Studies from the University of Jos, as well as an MBA from the University of Abuja
REMI TINUBU
Remi Tinubu is a politician, pastor, and philanthropist who currently serves as the First Lady of Nigeria following the election of her husband, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in 2023. Born on September 21, 1960, in Ogun State, she studied education at the University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University). Her journey into public service began when she served as First Lady of Lagos State from 1999 to 2007 during her husband’s tenure as governor. During that period, she became widely known for her involvement in social development initiatives, particularly through the Committee of Wives of Lagos State Officials (COWLSO), where she promoted women’s empowerment, health advocacy, and social welfare programs.
She later entered elective politics and represented Lagos Central Senatorial District in the Nigerian Senate from 2011 to 2023, serving three consecutive terms. As a legislator, she championed policies and motions related to gender equality, youth development, and social welfare. In her role as First Lady, she leads the Renewed Hope Initiative, a humanitarian platform focused on supporting women, youth, and vulnerable communities through empowerment programs, grants for small businesses, and health interventions. Over the years, Remi Tinubu has built a reputation as a grassroots mobilizer and advocate for social development, combining political leadership with faith-based and philanthropic engagement across Nigeria.
IRETI KINGIBE
Ireti Kingibe is a Nigerian civil engineer and politician currently serving as Senator representing the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) in the National Assembly. Born on June 2, 1954, she received her engineering education at the University of Minnesota after earlier schooling in Lagos and the United States. Before entering politics, Kingibe built a professional career as an engineer and consultant, working with construction and engineering firms including the New Nigeria Construction Company and later operating in the private sector as a senior partner in engineering consultancy. Her technical background and experience in infrastructure development later influenced her political agenda focused on urban development and public infrastructure.
Kingibe’s political journey began in the early 1990s when she joined the Social Democratic Party and served as an adviser to the party’s national chairman. Over the years she remained active in Nigerian politics across several political platforms before joining the Labour Party in 2022. In the 2023 general elections, she won the FCT senatorial seat, defeating long-serving incumbent Philip Aduda. In the Senate, she has served as Chairperson of the Senate Committee on Women Affairs and has advocated improved infrastructure, gender inclusion, and social development in Abuja’s rural communities. Her election marked a significant milestone for female representation in the politics of Nigeria’s capital territory.
AISHA YESUFU
Aisha Yesufu is a socio-political activist, businesswoman, and public speaker widely recognized for her fearless advocacy for good governance, human rights, and accountability in Nigeria. Born on December 12, 1973, in Kano State, she studied at Bayero University Kano and later became involved in entrepreneurship and civic engagement. She rose to national and international prominence as a co-founder of the #BringBackOurGirls movement, which emerged in 2014 following the abduction of more than 200 schoolgirls by the terrorist group Boko Haram in Chibok, Borno State. The movement mobilized global attention and drew support from international figures such as Michelle Obama and Hillary Clinton.
Yesufu later became a visible voice in Nigeria’s civil society movements, particularly during the 2020 #EndSARS protests against police brutality. Known for her iconic image standing defiantly before armed police during protests, she symbolizes citizen activism and resistance against injustice. Beyond activism, she frequently speaks at international forums and academic institutions on issues of governance, social justice, and civic participation. Her influence has earned her global recognition, including being listed among the BBC’s 100 Women in 2020 and among the most influential Africans by New African Magazine.
OYERONKE OYEWUMI
Oyeronke Oyewumi is a renowned sociologist and feminist scholar whose research has significantly reshaped discussions about gender, culture, and African social structures. Born in Nigeria, she studied sociology at the University of Ibadan before pursuing further academic training in the United States. Oyewumi is best known for challenging Western assumptions about gender in African societies, particularly through her influential scholarship on Yoruba culture and social organization.
Her landmark book, The Invention of Women: Making an African Sense of Western Gender Discourses, argues that precolonial Yoruba society did not organize social roles primarily around gender in the same way Western societies do. This groundbreaking work sparked global academic debates and expanded feminist scholarship by introducing African-centered perspectives on gender and identity. As a professor of sociology at Stony Brook University in the United States, Oyewumi continues to influence international scholarship through her teaching, writing, and advocacy for decolonizing knowledge production in African studies.
CHIMAMANDA NGOZI ADICHIE
Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie is one of the most globally celebrated Nigerian writers of the 21st century. Born on September 15, 1977, in Enugu State, she grew up in Nsukka where her father worked as a professor at the University of Nigeria. Adichie studied communication and political science before moving to the United States to continue her education. She gained international acclaim with her novels Purple Hibiscus, Half of a Yellow Sun, and Americanah, works that explore themes of identity, migration, feminism, and postcolonial African history. Half of a Yellow Sun, which tells the story of the Nigerian Civil War, won the Orange Prize for Fiction and further established her as a powerful literary voice.
Beyond fiction, Adichie has become a global advocate for gender equality and African storytelling. Her essay We Should All Be Feminists—adapted from her widely viewed TED Talk—has been translated into numerous languages and used in educational institutions worldwide. Through lectures, essays, and public engagements, she continues to challenge stereotypes about Africa while advocating for women’s empowerment and the importance of authentic narratives in global literature.
NGOZI OKONJO-IWEALA
Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala is a globally respected economist and international development expert who currently serves as Director-General of the World Trade Organization. Born on June 13, 1954, in Delta State, Nigeria, she studied economics at Harvard University and later obtained a PhD in regional economics and development from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). She spent more than two decades at the World Bank, rising to the position of Managing Director, where she supervised development programs across several regions of the world.
In Nigeria, Okonjo-Iweala served twice as Minister of Finance and briefly as Minister of Foreign Affairs. During her tenure, she led significant economic reforms, including efforts to improve transparency in public finance and negotiations that helped secure the cancellation of billions of dollars in Nigeria’s external debt. In 2021, she made history as the first African and first woman to lead the World Trade Organization, further cementing her status as one of the most influential economic leaders from Africa.
OBY EZEKWESILI
Oby Ezekwesili is a Nigerian economic policy expert, former government official, and civil society advocate known for her strong commitment to transparency, good governance, and accountability. Born on April 28, 1963, she studied accounting at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, before pursuing a master’s degree in international law and diplomacy. Ezekwesili first gained national prominence as one of the founding directors of Transparency International and later served as Nigeria’s Minister of Solid Minerals and Minister of Education under President Olusegun Obasanjo.
Internationally, she served as Vice President of the World Bank for the Africa Region, where she supervised development projects across multiple African countries. Ezekwesili also became one of the leading voices of the #BringBackOurGirls movement following the 2014 abduction of schoolgirls in Chibok. Her activism, public commentary, and leadership in policy reform initiatives have made her a prominent advocate for democratic accountability and citizen engagement in governance.
HADIZA BALA USMAN
Hadiza Bala Usman is a public administrator and policy expert known for her leadership in public sector reform. Born on January 2, 1976, she studied business administration at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria. She gained national recognition as the Chief of Staff to the Governor of Kaduna State before being appointed Managing Director of the Nigerian Ports Authority in 2016. Her appointment made her one of the most prominent female leaders in Nigeria’s maritime sector.
During her tenure at the Nigerian Ports Authority, Usman implemented reforms aimed at improving transparency, revenue generation, and operational efficiency within Nigeria’s port system. She also promoted digitalization and regulatory reforms intended to modernize port operations and reduce corruption. Her leadership in public administration has made her an influential figure in discussions around governance reform and institutional accountability in Nigeria.
MO ABUDU
Mo Abudu is a media mogul, entrepreneur, and philanthropist widely regarded as one of Africa’s most powerful figures in the entertainment industry. Born on September 11, 1964, she studied human resources management in the United Kingdom before beginning a career in corporate consulting. She later transitioned into media and founded EbonyLife TV, a pioneering African entertainment network dedicated to telling African stories to global audiences.
Through EbonyLife Media, Abudu has produced numerous television shows and films that have gained international attention, helping to elevate African storytelling on the global stage. She has been recognized by several international organizations, including being listed among the world’s most influential people by TIME magazine. Her work continues to reshape Africa’s media landscape while promoting cultural representation and creative entrepreneurship.
KADARIA AHMED
Kadaria Ahmed is a respected Nigerian journalist, media entrepreneur, and political analyst known for her incisive interviews and contributions to democratic discourse. Born in 1967, she studied journalism and media studies in Nigeria and the United Kingdom. Ahmed worked with several major Nigerian media outlets before founding RadioNow 95.3FM in Lagos, a talk radio station dedicated to policy discussions, governance issues, and civic engagement.
Through her media platforms and public engagements, Ahmed has become a prominent voice in Nigerian journalism, hosting interviews with political leaders, policymakers, and thought leaders. Her work emphasizes fact-based reporting, public accountability, and the promotion of democratic values. Over the years, she has contributed significantly to strengthening independent media and public debate in Nigeria.
FOLORUNSO ALAKIJA
LAGOS, NIGERIA – DECEMBER 27: Folorunsho Alakija attends the Diamond Collection By Folake Majin Fashion Show at Iko Hotel and Suites on December 27, 2012 in Lagos, Nigeria. (Photo by Bennett Raglin/Getty Images)
Folorunso Alakija is one of Nigeria’s most prominent entrepreneurs and philanthropists, widely recognized for her achievements in the oil and fashion industries. Born on July 15, 1951, in Lagos State, she began her professional career as a secretary at the International Merchant Bank before studying fashion design in the United Kingdom. She later established Supreme Stitches, a fashion label that became popular among Nigeria’s elite and political class during the 1980s and 1990s. Her business trajectory expanded dramatically when she entered the oil and gas sector through Famfa Oil Limited, a company that secured a stake in the lucrative Agbami oil field.
Over the years, Alakija has become one of Africa’s wealthiest women and an influential figure in business and philanthropy. Through the Rose of Sharon Foundation, she supports widows and vulnerable women with scholarships, empowerment programmes, and financial assistance. Her career stands as a powerful example of entrepreneurial resilience and leadership, inspiring many women across Africa to pursue opportunities in industries traditionally dominated by men.
IBUKUN AWOSIKA
Ibukun Awosika is a renowned Nigerian entrepreneur, leadership expert, and author known for her influence in corporate governance and enterprise development. Born on December 24, 1962, she studied chemistry at the University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University) before venturing into entrepreneurship. She founded The Chair Centre Group, a leading furniture manufacturing and interior solutions company in Nigeria, which grew from a small startup into a major corporate brand.
Awosika gained historic recognition in 2015 when she became the first female Chairperson of First Bank of Nigeria, one of the country’s oldest financial institutions. Through her leadership roles, public speaking engagements, and mentorship programmes, she has become a prominent advocate for entrepreneurship, youth empowerment, and ethical leadership. Her influence extends across Africa’s business ecosystem, where she continues to inspire a new generation of female entrepreneurs.
AMINA J. MOHAMMED
Amina J. Mohammed is a distinguished Nigerian diplomat and international development expert who serves as the Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations. Born on June 27, 1961, she studied at Kaduna Polytechnic and later built a career in architecture and development planning before moving into global policy work. Mohammed became internationally recognized for her expertise in sustainable development and environmental governance.
Before her current role, she served as Nigeria’s Minister of Environment and previously as Special Adviser to the United Nations Secretary-General on Post-2015 Development Planning. In that capacity, she played a central role in coordinating the development and global adoption of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Through her leadership in global diplomacy and policy formulation, she has become one of Africa’s most influential voices in international development and environmental sustainability.
ARUNMA OTEH
Arunma Oteh is a globally respected Nigerian economist and financial expert known for her contributions to financial sector reforms and international finance. Born in 1965 in Abia State, she studied economics at the University of Nigeria before obtaining an MBA from Harvard Business School. Oteh spent many years working with the African Development Bank, where she rose to the position of Vice President for Corporate Services.
She later served as Director-General of the Nigerian Securities and Exchange Commission, where she spearheaded reforms aimed at restoring investor confidence following the Nigerian stock market crash of 2008. Her career later took her to the World Bank and the University of Oxford, where she has contributed to global discussions on financial governance, economic development, and capital market regulation.
BLESSING OKAGBARE
Blessing Okagbare is one of Nigeria’s most accomplished track and field athletes, celebrated for her achievements in sprinting and long jump competitions. Born on October 9, 1988, in Delta State, she rose to prominence at the 2008 Beijing Olympics where she won a silver medal in the long jump event. Her performance established her as one of Africa’s leading track athletes.
Over the years, Okagbare has won multiple medals at the Commonwealth Games, African Championships, and international athletics competitions. Known for her speed, athletic versatility, and competitive spirit, she became a symbol of Nigerian excellence in global sports and inspired a new generation of athletes across the continent.
CHIOMA AJUNWA
Chioma Ajunwa is a historic figure in Nigerian sports as the country’s first Olympic gold medalist in an individual event. Born on December 25, 1970, in Imo State, she initially played professional football before focusing on athletics. Ajunwa achieved global recognition at the 1996 Atlanta Olympic Games where she won the gold medal in the women’s long jump, marking a landmark moment in Nigerian sporting history.
Beyond athletics, Ajunwa later joined the Nigeria Police Force and rose through the ranks while also promoting youth sports development. She has been actively involved in mentoring young athletes and advocating for better support systems for sports in Nigeria. Her legacy continues to inspire many young Nigerians to pursue excellence in athletics and national service.
MARY ONYALI
Mary Onyali is one of Nigeria’s most decorated sprinters and a trailblazer in African athletics. Born on February 3, 1968, in Rivers State, she represented Nigeria in five Olympic Games between 1988 and 2004. Onyali gained international recognition when she won a bronze medal in the 200-metre race at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics.
Throughout her career, Onyali won numerous medals at the African Championships, Commonwealth Games, and other international competitions. Her longevity in athletics and consistent performances made her one of the most respected figures in Nigerian sports history. After retiring from competitive athletics, she continued to contribute to sports development and youth mentorship programmes.
FUNKE AKINDELE
Funke Akindele is one of Nigeria’s most influential actresses, filmmakers, and producers whose work has significantly shaped modern African cinema. Born on August 24, 1977, in Lagos State, she studied Mass Communication at the Moshood Abiola Polytechnic and later obtained a law degree from the University of Lagos. She first gained national recognition through the popular television series I Need to Know in the late 1990s but rose to widespread fame with the comedy film Jenifa, which later evolved into the highly successful television series Jenifa’s Diary.
Through her production company, Scene One Productions, Akindele has produced numerous box-office hits and television series that have expanded the reach of Nollywood both locally and internationally. Her films often combine humour with social commentary, addressing themes such as youth culture, ambition, and societal pressures. Beyond entertainment, she has also been involved in political engagement and social advocacy, further establishing herself as a powerful voice in Nigeria’s creative and cultural industries.
GENEVIEVE NNAJI
Genevieve Nnaji is a globally recognized Nigerian actress, producer, and director whose career has played a pivotal role in elevating Nollywood to international prominence. Born on May 3, 1979, in Mbaise, Imo State, she began acting as a child in television dramas before transitioning into full-length films. Over the years, she became one of the most respected actresses in Nigeria, starring in numerous critically acclaimed films and earning multiple awards for her performances.
In 2018, she made history as the director of Lionheart, the first Nigerian film acquired by Netflix. The film showcased Nigerian storytelling on a global streaming platform and represented a major milestone for the country’s film industry. Beyond acting, Nnaji has also ventured into fashion and entrepreneurship while advocating for women’s empowerment and the global recognition of African creative talent.
TARA FELA-DUROTOYE
Tara Fela-Durotoye is a leading Nigerian beauty entrepreneur and pioneer of the professional makeup industry in Africa. Born on March 6, 1977, she studied law at Lagos State University but later pursued a career in beauty and cosmetics. She founded House of Tara International, which began as a small makeup studio and eventually grew into one of Africa’s most recognized beauty brands.
Through her business ventures, she has trained thousands of makeup artists and entrepreneurs across Nigeria and other African countries. Fela-Durotoye is also known for her mentorship programmes and initiatives aimed at empowering young women in business. Her entrepreneurial journey has made her a role model for aspiring business leaders in Africa’s creative and beauty industries.
NIKE DAVIES-OKUNDAYE
Nike Davies-Okundaye is a renowned Nigerian textile artist and cultural ambassador celebrated for preserving and promoting traditional African art forms. Born in 1951 in Osun State, she became widely known for her mastery of Adire textile design, beadwork, and traditional painting. Without formal university education, she built an extraordinary career through talent, dedication, and cultural advocacy.
She founded the Nike Art Gallery, one of the largest art galleries in West Africa, which has become a major centre for artistic training and cultural preservation. Through her workshops and mentorship programmes, she has trained thousands of artists and artisans, particularly women, helping them develop sustainable livelihoods through art. Her work continues to promote Nigerian culture on the global stage.
IJEOMA NWOGWUGWU
Ijeoma Nwogwugwu is a highly respected Nigerian journalist and editor known for her contributions to investigative journalism and media leadership. She studied history at the University of Lagos and began her journalism career at The Guardian newspaper before moving to THISDAY, where she rose to the position of editor. Her work focused on political reporting, economic analysis, and investigative features that shaped public discourse in Nigeria.
Nwogwugwu later became the founding Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Arise News Channel, an international television network broadcasting African news and perspectives to global audiences. Through her editorial leadership, she has played a key role in strengthening independent journalism and elevating African voices in global media.
IFUEKO OMOIGUI-OKAURU
Ifueko Omoigui-Okauru is a distinguished Nigerian accountant and public administrator best known for transforming Nigeria’s tax administration system. Born in 1949, she studied economics at the University of Lagos and later qualified as a chartered accountant. Her professional career included years of service in the private sector before she was appointed Executive Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS).
During her tenure from 2004 to 2012, she led sweeping reforms that modernized Nigeria’s tax system, improved compliance, and significantly increased government revenue. Her leadership emphasized transparency, institutional reform, and capacity building within the tax authority. Omoigui-Okauru’s achievements earned her numerous national and international awards and established her as a leading figure in fiscal policy and public sector reform in Nigeria.
NDIDI OKONKWO NWUNELI
Ndidi Okonkwo Nwuneli is a social entrepreneur and development expert known for her work in agriculture, nutrition, and social innovation. She studied at the University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School and Harvard Business School before returning to Nigeria to pursue development initiatives. Nwuneli founded LEAP Africa, a leadership development organization that trains young Africans in ethical leadership and entrepreneurship.
She later co-founded AACE Foods, an agro-processing company that sources agricultural produce from local farmers and transforms them into packaged food products. Through her work, she has promoted sustainable agriculture, job creation, and youth empowerment across Africa. Her leadership in social entrepreneurship has made her an influential figure in development and business innovation on the continent.
HANNATU MUSAWA
Hannatu Musa Musawa is a Nigerian lawyer, politician, and public policy advocate who has emerged as a notable figure in Nigeria’s governance and cultural development space. Born in Katsina State, she studied law at the University of Buckingham in the United Kingdom and was subsequently called to the Nigerian Bar. Musawa built a career that spans legal practice, public affairs, and political engagement, gaining recognition for her involvement in policy advocacy and governance discussions. Over the years, she has contributed to political campaigns, policy formulation, and national conversations around youth participation, leadership, and democratic development in Nigeria.
In 2023, she was appointed Nigeria’s Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and the Creative Economy, a role that placed her at the centre of efforts to reposition the country’s cultural and creative industries as drivers of economic growth. In this capacity, Musawa has championed initiatives aimed at promoting Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage, expanding opportunities within the creative sector, and strengthening tourism as a viable contributor to national development. Her work reflects a broader commitment to empowering creative professionals and elevating Nigeria’s cultural influence on the global stage.
FOLASHADE YEMI-ESAN
Folashade Yemi-Esan is a distinguished Nigerian public administrator whose career in the civil service spans more than three decades. She rose through the ranks to become the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation in 2020, following her appointment by President Muhammadu Buhari after the death of Abba Kyari and the subsequent restructuring of key federal administrative offices. Before reaching the pinnacle of Nigeria’s civil service, she served in several strategic roles, including Permanent Secretary in the Federal Ministry of Petroleum Resources, where she played an important role in administrative coordination within one of Nigeria’s most critical sectors. Known for her professionalism, discipline, and administrative expertise, Yemi-Esan has been widely respected for her commitment to strengthening governance structures and improving efficiency in the Nigerian public service.
As Head of the Civil Service, Yemi-Esan championed reforms aimed at modernising Nigeria’s bureaucracy and enhancing service delivery across federal ministries, departments, and agencies. She pushed forward initiatives such as the digitalisation of civil service processes, capacity-building programmes for civil servants, and the institutionalisation of performance management systems designed to improve accountability and productivity in government operations. Her leadership has been instrumental in promoting transparency, professional ethics, and gender inclusion within the civil service, making her a role model for women aspiring to leadership in public administration.
UCHE PEDRO
Uche Pedro (born Uchenna Jennifer Eze) is a Nigerian media entrepreneur and the founder and CEO of BellaNaija, one of Africa’s most influential lifestyle and entertainment digital media platforms. She launched the platform in 2006, transforming what began as a personal blog into a leading media-tech brand with multiple extensions such as BellaNaija Weddings and BellaNaija Style. Today, the BellaNaija network generates hundreds of millions of monthly impressions and has played a major role in shaping modern African pop culture, fashion, weddings, and entertainment storytelling.
Beyond media entrepreneurship, Uche Pedro is recognized for her contributions to youth empowerment and civic engagement. She founded the #BNDoGood initiative, which supports social impact organizations, and co-founded PVCitizen, a platform encouraging young Nigerians to participate actively in elections and democratic processes. Her work has earned global recognition, including being listed among Forbes’ Most Powerful Women in Africa and being selected as a Young Global Leader by the World Economic Forum, boosting her reputation as a trailblazer in African digital media and innovation.
BUKKY GEORGE
Bukky George is a Nigerian healthcare entrepreneur and the founder and Chief Executive Officer of HealthPlus Limited, one of Nigeria’s pioneering integrated pharmacy chains. She established HealthPlus in 1999 with the vision of transforming the pharmaceutical retail landscape in Nigeria by introducing a modern, customer-focused pharmacy model. Under her leadership, HealthPlus expanded into a well-recognized healthcare brand providing quality medicines, professional pharmaceutical services, and health products across several Nigerian cities.
Beyond building a successful healthcare enterprise, Bukky George has also been a strong advocate for improved access to quality healthcare and pharmaceutical standards in Nigeria. She founded CasaBella International, a beauty retail chain that further expanded her footprint in Nigeria’s health and wellness industry. Widely respected for her entrepreneurial resilience and leadership, she has received numerous recognitions for business excellence and continues to inspire women entrepreneurs across Africa through her contributions to healthcare innovation and enterprise development.
BOLANLE AUSTEN-PETERS
Mrs Bolanle Austen-Peters of BAP Productions
Bolanle Austen-Peters is a renowned Nigerian lawyer, theatre director, and creative entrepreneur who has played a pivotal role in revitalizing contemporary stage productions in Nigeria. She is the founder of Terra Kulture, a Lagos-based cultural hub dedicated to promoting Nigerian languages, arts, food, and heritage. Through Terra Kulture and the Terra Kulture Arena theatre, she has produced several successful stage plays and musicals that celebrate Nigerian history and culture.
Austen-Peters gained widespread recognition for producing and directing major theatrical productions such as Saro the Musical and Wakaa the Musical, both of which received international acclaim and toured globally. Expanding her influence into filmmaking, she has also produced notable films including Bling Lagosians and Man of God. Through her creative vision and dedication to storytelling, she has significantly contributed to the growth of Nigeria’s theatre and film industries while promoting African culture on the global stage.
PROF. BOSEDE AFOLABI
Bosede Afolabi is a distinguished medical doctor, researcher, and Professor of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at the University of Lagos as well as a consultant at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital. Renowned for her work in maternal and reproductive health, she has devoted much of her career to addressing maternal mortality and improving pregnancy outcomes in Nigeria and across Africa. Her research focuses particularly on hypertensive disorders in pregnancy, maternal nutrition, and evidence-based interventions to reduce complications during childbirth.
Beyond clinical practice and teaching, Professor Afolabi is actively involved in global health research collaborations and capacity building in maternal healthcare. She has participated in several international research initiatives aimed at improving maternal and neonatal health in low- and middle-income countries. Through her academic leadership, mentorship of young doctors, and contributions to public health policy discussions, she has become a respected voice in advancing safer motherhood and strengthening Nigeria’s healthcare system.
RENA WAKAMA
Rena Wakama is a Nigerian basketball coach and former professional player who has gained national and international recognition for her leadership in women’s basketball. In 2023, she made history when she was appointed head coach of Nigeria’s women’s national basketball team, D’Tigress, becoming the first female coach to lead the team. Before taking up the role, Wakama had an accomplished playing career and later transitioned into coaching, bringing a strong tactical understanding and passion for developing the sport.
Under her leadership, D’Tigress continued to strengthen Nigeria’s dominance in African women’s basketball, showcasing discipline, teamwork, and resilience on the continental stage. Wakama’s appointment marked an important step for female representation in sports leadership in Nigeria, inspiring young women to pursue careers not only as athletes but also as coaches and sports administrators. Her impact extends beyond the court, as she is widely regarded as a role model for women striving to break barriers in sports.
ADAORA UMEOJI – ZENITH BANK
On June 1, 2024, the newest kid on the block in the banking world, Dame (Dr.) Adaora Umeoji, mounted the topmost echelon of the Zenith Bank brand as its Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer. She is the first female to ever hold the position in the near three decades history of the bank. The Amazon has spent 26 years of her total 30 years in the banking world with Zenith.
Before her appointment however, Umeoji has been the Deputy Managing Director of the bank since October 28, 2016 and has close to 30 years of banking experience of which 26 years has been with Zenith Bank.
According to her profile, Umeoji is an alumnus of Harvard Business School, where she attended the Advanced Management Programme, and an alumnus of Columbia Business School with a Certificate in the Global Banking Program. She holds a bachelor’s degree in sociology from the University of Jos, a bachelor’s degree in accounting, and a first-class honours degree in law from Baze University, Abuja.
She holds a Master of Laws from the University of Salford, United Kingdom, a Master in Business Administration from the University of Calabar, and also has a doctorate in business administration from Apollos University, USA. She holds a Certificate in Economics for Business from the prestigious MIT Sloan School of Management, USA, and has attended various management programmes in renowned Universities around the world including the strategic thinking and Management programme at Wharton Business School, USA.
She holds a Certificate in Economics for Business from the prestigious MIT Sloan School of Management, USA, and has attended various management programmes in renowned Universities around the world including the strategic thinking and Management programme at Wharton Business School, USA. She also attended the executive program in Strategic Management, and has a Certificate in Leading Global Business all from Harvard Business School, USA.
She is a fellow of notable professional bodies including the Chartered Banker Institute, UK, Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria, Nigerian Institute of Management, Institute of Credit Administration, Institute of Certified Public Accountants of Nigeria, Institute of Chartered Mediators and Conciliators, and the Institute of Chartered Secretaries and Administrators of Nigeria among others.
NNEKA ONYEALI-IKPE – FIDELITY BANK
No doubt, Mrs Onyeali-Ikpe, reputed as a solid amazon in the finance sector, and a go-getter, has seen and conquered the banking arena, and is honoured among veterans as a solid foundation in Nigeria’s money business. This prompted her reappointment as the CEO of FidelityBank Plc.
Born on July 28, 1964, and on the verge of hitting the diamond age, Nneka, as beloved and close family members, friends and colleagues fondly call her, is a force to reckon with, and has in a space of 32 years and counting, of career banking, brought to bear all the stops that make for great banking and financial experience, climbing to the topmost echelon of investment banking and related areas.
She began her career in 1990, when she was employed as a legal officer for the now-defunct African Continental Bank. She later worked as a treasury officer for the First African Trust Bank, and thereafter joined Zenith Bank, and subsequently the Standard Chartered Bank. Her experience in the course of her sojourn are combined to make her a toast of the banking industry today.
AYODELE TOMI SOMEFUN – UNITY BANK
Prior to her current appointment as the CEO of Unity Bank, Mrs. Ayodele Somefun, another Amazon of Nigerian banking sector, had worked at Credit Bank Limited and UBA Plc. She was also the MD/CEO of UBA Capital & Trustee Limited and the Founding Managing Director of UBA Pension Custodian Limited: two of UBA Group’s major subsidiaries.
She also served as a Non-Executive Director on the boards of directors of UBA Foundations, UBA Trustees, UBA Nominees and UBA Registrars.
In the course of her career with Unity Bank Plc, she served as an Executive Director in charge of Lagos and the South-West region of Nigeria until August, 2015.
Mrs. Tomi Somefun, on August 12, 2015, assumed her role as the Chief Executive Officer of Unity Bank Plc.
YETUNDE BOLANLE ONI – UNION BANK
Mrs. Oni’s trajectory in the banking world depicts her as a highly accomplished financial services leader with a successful career spanning over 30 years. She has held senior positions in international and local banks, focusing on emerging markets. In January 2024, Yetunde was appointed by CBN as the Managing Director/CEO of Union Bank of Nigeria.
Before this, Yetunde worked at Standard Chartered Bank Nigeria Limited as the pioneer head of commercial clients in September 2014. She became the Managing Director & Country Head of Commercial Banking in West Africa in 2017. During her tenure, she developed and executed comprehensive business growth strategies, managed key relationships, and ensured compliance with group credit policy and local underwriting standards.
BOLAJI AGBEDE – ACCESS HOLDINGS
Mrs. Agbede was appointed CEO of Access Bank on February 11, 2024.
She has nearly three decades of professional experience cutting across banking and business consultancy services. Ms Agbede commenced her professional career in 1992 at Guaranty Trust Bank and served in various capacities within the Commercial Banking and Operations functions rising to the position of Manager in 2001. She subsequently served as the Chief Executive Officer of JKG Limited, a business consulting outfit in 2003.
She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Mathematics and Statistics from the University of Lagos (1990) and a Masters of Business Administration Degree from Canfield University UK in 2002. She is a member of the Chartered Institute of Management UK and the Chartered Institute of Personnel Management of Nigeria.
MIRIAM OLUSANYA – GTB
In 2011, Olusanya made history as the first Managing Director of Guaranty Trust Bank, and its subsidiary.
Miriam joined GTBank as an executive Trainee in 1998 and rose through the ranks to the present position she occupies. She was formerly the Group Treasurer and Head of Wholesale Banking.
She obtained a Bachelor’s degree in Pharmacy from the prestigious University of Ibadan. She further proceeded to the University of Liverpool where she obtained an MBA in Finance and Accounting. Additionally, she enrolled in various executive programmes at institutions such as Cranfield School of Management.
Miriam Olusanya is an accomplished banker with over 21 years of experience in corporate finance, treasury, assets and liability management and wholesale banking.
IRETI SAMUEL-OGBU – CITI BANK
Prior to being appointed CEO of Citi Bank Group, Samuel-Ogbu was the Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) Head, Payments and Receivables, Treasury and Trade Solutions (TTS) under Citi’s Institutional Clients Group (ICG) based in London, UK. She has also been on the Board of Citibank Nigeria Limited for the last 5 years as a non-Executive Director.
Samuel-Ogbu is responsible for leading and protecting the franchise, and with the talented and experienced team in Nigeria, continue to drive performance. She assists Citi’s institutional clients by harnessing the potential of their significant product, functional and geographic capabilities in Nigeria and the region.
HALIMA BUBA – SUN TRUST BANK
The CEO of Sun Trust Bank, Halima Buba, has over two decades of comprehensive banking experience. Her illustrious career spans prominent financial institutions, including Allstates Trust Bank, Zenith Bank, Inland Bank Plc, Oceanic Bank Plc, and Ecobank Nigeria Limited. Halima earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Business Management and an MBA from the University of Maiduguri.
An alumnus of the Lagos Business School’s Senior Management Programme, she is a Senior Honorary Member of the Chartered Institute of Bankers and a Fellow of the Institute of Management Consultants.
YEMISI EDUN – FCMB
The Managing Director of First City Monument Bank (FCMB), Yemisi Edun holds a Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry from the University of Ife, Ile-Ife and a Master’s degree in International Accounting and Finance from the University of Liverpool, United Kingdom.
She is a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria and a CFA® Charter holder. She is also an Associate Member of the Chartered Institute of Stockbrokers; an Associate Member of the Institute of Taxation of Nigeria; a Member of Information Systems Audit and Control, U.S.A; and a Certified Information Systems Auditor.
BUKOLA SMITH – FSDH MERCHANT BANK
Bukola has been the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of FSDH Merchant Bank in April 2021, with over 29 years of progressive experience in the banking industry and with a track record of strategic execution and leadership.
Before her appointment as Managing Director, she was the Executive Director, Business Development at First City Monument Bank and held several other leadership positions since joining in 2006. She was responsible for the bank’s over 200 branches across the country, Public Sector, Business Banking, Agriculture and Transaction Banking Divisions. Under her, the bank’s SME focused team in 3 years moved from 5th position in the industry to 1st position in 2019 (KPMG Customer Service Report 2020). In addition, she established the FCMB Women in Business Desk (branded SheVentures) which supports female entrepreneurs; and set up FCMB Trustees and FCMB Custody.
KAFILAT ARAOYE – LOTUS BANK
A graduate of History from the University of Ife, now Obafemi Awolowo University (1985), and an M.Sc. holder in Industrial Relations & Personnel Management from the University of Lagos (1987), Kafilat Araoye has over 25 years experience in banking, graduating as the best student in her class.
She has attended various executive management courses at the Cranfield School of Management (UK), Lagos Business School, Institute of Management Development (Switzerland) and INSEAD (France),Ross business School, University of Michigan(USA). She is certified in specialised banking courses, conferences and seminars, among them are the Structured Trade Finance Course by Euromoney U.K, Payments, Clearing and Settlement Conference by National Association of Clearing Houses, USA 2006, 2007, 2008, International Banker’s Seminar, USA, South Africa and Swift regional conference.
PROFESSOR MARIETU OHUNENE TENUCHE OF KOGI STATE UNIVERSITY
Professor Marietu Ohunene Tenuche, the Acting Vice Chancellor, was born on 29th September, 1959. She obtained her West African School Certificate from Government Girls Secondary School, Yola in 1976.
She obtained a University of Cambridge General Certificate in Education (G.C.E.) Advanced Level Certificate from the School of Basic Studies, Kwara State College of Technology (now Kwara State Polytechnic) Ilorin in1978.
Professor Tenuche graduated with a Bachelor of Science, Second Class (Upper Division), in Political Science, from the Ahmadu Bello University (ABU) Zaria, in 1981. She obtained her Master and Doctorate degrees from the same institution.
Professor Tenuche has received several awards and honours, with the “Worthy Alumnus” award conferred on her by the Department of Political Science, ABU, Zaria, in 2018 as her most cherished.
She holds the traditional title of “OyinOiza” Ebira conferred on her by the Ohinoyi of Ebiraland, Alhaji (Dr) Ado Ibrahim, in 2003.
Prof. (Mrs.) Ibiyinka Fuwape was born in Lagos State to the family of Mr. and Mrs. David Ademokun of Ogun State on 18th December, 1962. She had her primary school education at Reagan Memorial Baptist Girls Primary School, Yaba, Lagos. She also obtained her O’Level certificate with a division one grade in 1979 from the Methodist Girls High School, Yaba, Lagos. She proceeded to Queen’s College Yaba for her Higher School Certificate from 1979-1981.
Prof. Fuwape holds a Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) degree in Physics (First Class) from the University of Ibadan in 1984. She went on National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) from 1984-1985. She holds a Master of Science (M.Sc.) and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree in 1986 and 1989 respectively from the same University of Ibadan.
She is a Christian and she is happily married to Prof. Joseph Fuwape and blessed with children.
PROFESSOR NNENNA NNANNAYA OTI OF FEDERAL UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY, OWERRI
Professor (Mrs.) Nnenna Nnannaya Oti is from Afikpo, Ebonyi State. A highly seasoned, versatile and accomplished scholar, Nnenna is a Professor of Soil Science and Environmental Conservation, who was recently appointed the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Federal University of Technology, Owerri (FUTO).
Prof. Nnenna Oti made a First Class Honours Degree in Soil Science, and has an M.Sc in Soil Microbiology/Biochemistry from the University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN), before proceeding to the Katholieke Universitiet Leuven, Belgium, where she bagged a PGD (Distinction) in Irrigation Engineering. In 2002, Nnenna broke an unusual record when she won the NUC – Best PhD in Nigeria Award.
A Fellow of the Soil Science Society of Nigeria, Prof. Nnenna Oti, is a Chartered Soil Scientist, Member Agricultural Society of Nigeria, Member Soil Science Society of America, Member Crop Science Society of America and Member Agronomy Society of America and a host of others.
She is a Christian who firmly believes in family values, truth, honesty, integrity, forgiveness, humility, loyalty and hard work. She is married with 3 adult children. THE ONLY LIFE WORTH LIVING IS THE LIFE OF SERVICE TO HUMANITY!
PROFESSOR ADENIKE TEMIDAYO OLADIJI OF FEDERAL UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY, AKURE
Professor Adenike Temidayo Oladiji was born on 27th April, 1968. She attended Christ Anglican School, Ijomu-Oro, Iludun Oro Nursery and Primary School between 1972 and 1977 and St. Claire’s Anglican Grammar School, Offa from 1977 to 1982, all in Kwara State, for her secondary education. She holds a B.Sc Biochemistry, Second Class Upper Division Degree from the University of Ilorin, 1988, MSc. Biochemistry, University of Ilorin, 1991 and Doctor of Philosophy Degree in Biochemistry from the University of Ilorin, 1997. She joined the services of the University of Ilorin in July 1992 as Assistant Lecturer and was appointed a Professor in September 2011.
She has over 29 years of continuous service in the university system.
A prolific reseacher with over 100 publications, Professor Oladiji has won many distinctions and awards which include University’s Merit Award, Certificate of Merit and scholarships among others. She is a Fellow of the Nigerian Academy of Science and Fellow, Nigerian Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. She has served as Member of various Scienctific Committees at the National Universities Commission, NUC, Tertiary Education Fund, TetFund and has been an external examiner in over 20 Universities in Nigeria and outside the country.
She is happily married and blessed with children.
PROF. FOLASADE TOLULOPE OGUNSOLA OF UNIVERSITY OF LAGOS
Folasade Tolulope Ogunsola (born 1958) is a Nigerian professor of medical microbiology, and the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Lagos. She specializes in disease control, particularly HIV/AIDS. Ogunsola was provost of College of Medicine, University of Lagos and is reputed as being the first woman to occupy the position. She was also the Deputy Vice Chancellor (Development Services) of the institution between 2017 and 2021. She was acting vice chancellor of the University of Lagos for a short period in 2020 when the University was plunged into crisis as a result of the removal of the Vice Chancellor by the University Council.
Ogunsola was raised in University of Ibadan where her father, Akin Mabogunje lectured. As a child, she mimicked medical practitioners by using dolls as patients, while offering medical care to them. She attended Queen’s College, Lagos. Between 1974 and 1982, she obtained her first degree from University of Ife and a master’s degree from College of Medicine, University of Lagos, then proceeded for her doctorate at University of Wales between 1992 and 1997.
PROF IBIYEMI OLATUNJI-BELLO OF LAGOS STATE UNIVERSITY
Prof Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello was “born in Lagos on April 23, 1964. She had her primary education at Anglican Girls Primary School, Surulere, from 1970 to 1974 and her secondary education at Lagos Anglican Girls Grammar School, Surulere, between 1974 and 1979.
“Prof. Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello then proceeded to Methodist Girls High School, Yaba, and Lagos State College of Science and Technology, Ikosi Campus where she did her ‘A’ level in 1982.
“For her university education, she attended the University of Ibadan from 1982 to 1985 where she bagged a B.Sc (Hons) in Physiology. In 1987, at the University of Lagos, she was awarded M.Sc (Physiology). In 1998, she was awarded a PhD in Physiology, also at the University of Lagos after attending a 6-month research training in the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio in the US in 1994.
PROFESSOR LILIAN IMUETINYAN SALAMI OF UNIVERSITY OF BENIN
Professor Lilian Imuetinyan Salami was born on the 8th of August 1956 to the family of Late Benjamin Idemudia Emovon and Mrs. Alice Omoariagbon both from Obadan Community in Uhunmwode Local government Area of the Benin Kingdom. She attended Baptist High School and Itohan Girls Grammar School both in Benin /city from 1969 – 1975. Thereafter, she gained admission into the North Dakota Universisty in Fargo, North Dakota, USA, where she obtained a BSc degree in Home Economics in 1979. She subsequently obtained a Master of Science degree in Nutrition from the same University in 1982.
Professor Salami returned to Nigeria to observe her National Youth Service (NYSC) in 1982 and proceeded to obtain her PhD degree in Human Nutrition at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka in 1991. Due to her passion for education, she studied for and was awarded a Post Graduate Diploma in Education by the University of Benin in 2001 and a Postdoctoral degree in Tourism and Hospitality, this time from the Vaal University of Technology, Vanderbijlpark, South Africa in 2005.
Professor Salami is a fellow of the International Federation of Home Economics (IFHE),Nutrition society of Nigeria (NSN) and Home Economics Professional Association of Nigeria (HEPAN). She was the pioneer president of Home Economics Teachers’ Association of Edo State and a steering member of Home Economics Council of Nigeria. She was also a pioneer member of African Nutrition leadership programme, South Africa.
FLORENCE BANKU OBI OF UNIVERSITY OF CALABAR
Florence Banku Obi is an academic, author and a professor of special education. She is the 11th substantive vice-chancellor of University of Calabar and the first female vice-chancellor since the inception of the institution. After her appointment as the new VC, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege who chairs the Senate Adhoc Committee on Constitution Review, described Prof. Obi as “an astute educational icon.” She was previously the deputy vice-chancellor, academics and commissioner for women affairs in Cross River State. She was a candidate in the 2015 VC election but was not elected until 2020 when she became the first woman to be elected. In 2007, she served as the social development and member of the executive council, Cross River State.
Obi is from Bansan–Osokom, Boki Local Government Area of Cross River State.
Obi is married with four children and six grandchildren.
PROF. OLAYINKA RAMOTA KARIM OF FOUNTAIN UNIVERSITY OSOGBO
Karim Olayinka Ramota is a native of Ijebu Ode, Ogun state. She is a Professor in the Department of Home Economics and Food Science, University of Ilorin, Kwara State. and has a Ph.D. and B.Sc. in Food Science & Technology from the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta. As a NASFAT Muslim, Ramota believes that interreligious dialogue and mediation is important in increasing her skills and knowledge in her service to humanity.
OLUBUNMI KUKU
Olubunmi Kuku is a highly respected Nigerian corporate executive and aviation administrator who has carved a niche for herself through decades of experience in global finance, technology, and aviation management. She rose to national prominence following her appointment as the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), one of the most strategic institutions in Nigeria’s transportation sector. With a professional career that spans several continents, she has worked with globally renowned institutions including Visa Inc., Ernst & Young, and Accenture, where she contributed to financial advisory services, risk management, and technology-driven business transformation. Her expertise has been widely acknowledged for helping organisations modernise operational systems and improve efficiency.
Since assuming leadership at FAAN, Olubunmi Kuku has been widely recognised for bringing fresh energy, global best practices, and strategic thinking to Nigeria’s aviation sector. Her leadership has focused on strengthening airport infrastructure, improving passenger experience, enhancing safety standards, and ensuring more transparent management of aviation resources. Known for her disciplined work ethic and results-oriented leadership style, she continues to advocate innovation and digital transformation within the aviation industry. Through her accomplishments, she has become one of the most influential female figures in Nigeria’s public sector leadership, inspiring younger professionals—especially women—to pursue excellence in fields traditionally dominated by men.
CAPT. BOLAJI AGBELUSI
Bolaji Agbelusi is an aviation expert and professional pilot whose career reflects discipline, courage, and a passion for excellence in one of the world’s most technically demanding professions. As a commercial airline pilot, she has earned recognition for her commitment to safety, operational precision, and high professional standards within the aviation industry. Her journey into aviation required years of rigorous training, technical education, and flight experience, all of which she has successfully navigated to establish herself as a respected figure within the field.
Beyond the cockpit, Agbelusi is widely admired for her dedication to mentoring aspiring aviators, particularly young women who often face challenges entering the aviation sector. She actively promotes awareness about aviation careers and encourages more female participation in the industry. Through her work and public engagement, she continues to demonstrate that determination, discipline, and passion can open doors in even the most competitive professional fields. Her growing influence within aviation circles has positioned her among the notable Nigerian women making significant contributions to the sector.
OJYE OKPE
Ojye Okpe is a distinguished broadcast journalist and television anchor widely recognised for her insightful reporting and eloquent presentation of national and international issues. With years of experience in broadcast journalism, she has become one of the prominent voices shaping public discourse in Nigeria’s media landscape. As a senior anchor at Arise News, she has moderated several high-profile interviews and discussions involving political leaders, policymakers, and business executives.
Through her work on television, Ojye Okpe has earned a reputation for professionalism, balanced reporting, and intellectual depth. Her ability to analyse complex political and economic developments has made her a respected figure among viewers and colleagues alike. Over the years, she has also played a key role in elevating the standards of television journalism in Nigeria, inspiring many aspiring journalists who look up to her career path as a model of credibility and excellence in broadcast media.
AYO MAIRO-ESE
Ayo Mairo-Ese is a well-known Nigerian media personality, journalist, and television presenter whose career has been defined by eloquence, versatility, and professionalism. She has worked with some of Nigeria’s leading broadcast platforms, including Arise News and Channels Television, where she gained recognition for hosting engaging programmes that address social, political, and cultural issues affecting society.
Her role as a television host has allowed her to interact with influential personalities across different sectors while moderating important national conversations. Known for her calm demeanor and articulate presentation style, Mairo-Ese has built a reputation as a trusted media professional. In addition to broadcasting, she is also an accomplished event host and moderator, often invited to anchor major conferences and corporate events. Her work continues to inspire young Nigerians interested in media and communications.
MAUPE OGUN-YUSUF
Maupe Ogun-Yusuf is one of Nigeria’s most respected broadcast journalists, known for her calm authority, sharp interviewing skills, and deep understanding of national issues. She rose to prominence as a presenter on Channels Television, where she co-hosts the widely watched current affairs programme Sunrise Daily. Through this platform, she has conducted interviews with leading political figures, policymakers, economists, and analysts.
Her ability to ask incisive questions and guide complex conversations has earned her the admiration of viewers and colleagues across Nigeria. Ogun-Yusuf is widely regarded as a symbol of professionalism and integrity in journalism. Over the years, she has contributed significantly to the advancement of political and current affairs broadcasting in Nigeria, inspiring many young journalists who aspire to follow in her footsteps.
VIMBAI MUTINHIRI-EKPENYONG
Though originally a Zimbabwean, Vimbai Mutinhiri-Ekpenyong, media personality, actress, and television host who has successfully built a career across Africa’s entertainment and broadcasting industries,is now Nigerian by virtue of marriage. She first gained widespread recognition as a finalist on the reality television show Big Brother Africa, which introduced her to millions of viewers across the continent. Following this exposure, she transitioned into television hosting, acting, and media entrepreneurship.
Over the years, Vimbai has hosted numerous high-profile events, award shows, and red-carpet programmes across Africa. Her charisma, elegance, and media savvy have made her a familiar face at major entertainment gatherings. Beyond entertainment, she has also ventured into digital media and lifestyle branding, establishing platforms that promote African culture and creativity. Her career reflects the evolving influence of African media personalities in shaping global perceptions of the continent’s entertainment industry.
LINDA IKEJI
Linda Ikeji is one of Africa’s most successful digital entrepreneurs and a pioneer of celebrity blogging in Nigeria. Rising from modest beginnings, she built a media empire through her blog, Linda Ikeji’s Blog, which became one of the most widely read online platforms in Africa. Her website gained massive popularity for breaking entertainment news, celebrity stories, and lifestyle content, attracting millions of readers across the continent and the diaspora.
Beyond blogging, Ikeji expanded her influence into television, publishing, and digital media through ventures such as Linda Ikeji TV. Her entrepreneurial success has made her a symbol of innovation within Nigeria’s digital economy. Known for her philanthropic efforts and motivational messages encouraging women to pursue financial independence, Linda Ikeji remains a powerful example of how creativity and determination can transform opportunities in the digital age.
CAPTAIN IBIRONKE ROTIMI-OLAJIDE
Captain Ibironke Rotimi-Olajide is a distinguished aviation professional and one of the pioneering female commercial pilots in the country. She is regarded as the first female pilot and captain in Africa to fly the Embraer E195-E2 aircraft. She is currently the captain at Air Peace. Through years of dedication, rigorous training, and exceptional flying skills, she rose through the ranks to become one of the most respected female captains in Nigerian aviation. Her career has seen her command various commercial aircraft on domestic and international routes, demonstrating remarkable professionalism, discipline, and leadership in the cockpit. Her success has not only elevated her personal career but has also opened doors and inspired more Nigerian women to pursue careers in aviation.
Beyond her achievements in the cockpit, Captain Rotimi-Olajide has become a symbol of determination, resilience, and female empowerment in Nigeria’s aviation sector. She has participated in several mentoring and advocacy efforts aimed at encouraging young people—especially girls—to consider careers in science, technology, engineering, and aviation.
ASISAT OSHOALA
Asisat Oshoala
Asisat Oshoala is one of Nigeria’s most celebrated female athletes and a global ambassador for women’s football. Born in Lagos, Oshoala has risen to international prominence as a forward for FC Barcelona Femení in the Spanish Primera División and as a key player for the Nigeria women’s national football team, popularly known as the Super Falcons. Known for her speed, skill, and clinical finishing, she has earned numerous accolades, including multiple African Women’s Footballer of the Year awards. Her exploits on the field have made her an inspiration to young girls across Africa, demonstrating that talent combined with dedication can achieve global recognition in sports.
Beyond her sporting achievements, Oshoala is an influential figure off the pitch, using her platform– the Asisat Oshoala Academy–to advocate for the development of women’s football in Africa and to inspire youth empowerment through sports. She has partnered with several initiatives promoting education, gender equality, and access to sports facilities for young girls. As a role model, she exemplifies resilience, discipline, and ambition, showing how sports can be a catalyst for social change.
ODUNAYO EWENIYI
Odunayo Eweniyi is a prominent Nigerian technology entrepreneur and advocate for women in the digital economy. She is best known as the co-founder and Chief Operations Officer of PiggyVest, one of Nigeria’s leading financial technology platforms that helps millions of users cultivate disciplined savings and investment habits. Since its launch in 2016, PiggyVest has revolutionized personal finance in Nigeria by providing secure and accessible digital tools that encourage savings and wealth creation. Through her work in the fintech space, Eweniyi has played a crucial role in driving financial inclusion, particularly among young Nigerians who are embracing technology-driven financial solutions.
Beyond her success in business, Eweniyi is widely recognized as a passionate advocate for gender equality and women’s participation in technology. She is a co-founder of Feminist Coalition, a group that gained global recognition for its advocacy for women’s rights and civic engagement in Nigeria. A graduate of Covenant University where she studied Computer Engineering, she has received numerous accolades for her influence in Africa’s technology ecosystem. Her work has been acknowledged internationally, including recognition by Forbes in its 30 Under 30 list.
JOSEPHINE ODUMAKIN
Josephine Odumakin is one of Nigeria’s most prominent voices in the struggle for human rights, democracy, and social justice. A fearless activist and public intellectual, she has spent decades advocating for the protection of civil liberties, gender equality, and good governance in Nigeria. She is widely known as the President of Women Arise for Change Initiative, a civil society movement dedicated to empowering women and mobilizing citizens to demand accountability and justice. Through the organization, Odumakin has led numerous campaigns, peaceful protests, and advocacy initiatives aimed at defending the rights of marginalized groups and addressing issues such as gender-based violence, political oppression, and social inequality.
Beyond her activism, Odumakin has built an impressive career in public advocacy and policy engagement. She holds a doctorate in History and Strategic Studies from the University of Lagos and has long been involved in Nigeria’s pro-democracy movement. Over the years, she has worked with several human rights organizations and international bodies, earning recognition for her courage and dedication to democratic ideals. Her work has positioned her as a powerful symbol of resilience and civic responsibility, inspiring many Nigerians—particularly women and young people—to participate actively in the defense of democracy and human rights.
CHINWE EGWIM
Chinwe Egwim is a respected Nigerian economist, policy analyst, and thought leader in the field of economic development and financial markets. She serves as the Chief Economist and Head of Research and Intelligence at Coronation Merchant Bank, where she leads the bank’s economic research initiatives, providing strategic insights into Nigeria’s macroeconomic environment, financial markets, and investment landscape. Over the years, Egwim has gained recognition for her deep analytical expertise and her ability to interpret complex economic trends, offering guidance to policymakers, investors, and business leaders navigating Nigeria’s evolving economic terrain. Through her research publications, policy commentaries, and conference presentations, she has become a trusted voice on issues such as fiscal policy, economic reforms, and sustainable growth within Africa’s largest economy.
Egwim’s professional journey reflects a strong academic foundation and a commitment to advancing economic knowledge in Nigeria and beyond. She holds degrees in Economics, including postgraduate qualifications, and has participated in several global policy dialogues and research collaborations focused on economic development, gender inclusion, and financial sustainability. Beyond her corporate role, she is widely regarded as an advocate for youth empowerment and women’s leadership in economics and finance, frequently speaking at academic and professional forums where she encourages greater female participation in economic policymaking.
EMEM USORO
Emem Nnana Usoro is a distinguished Nigerian banker and financial leader whose career spans more than two decades in the banking and financial services sector. She currently serves as Deputy Governor for Operations at the Central Bank of Nigeria, a role she assumed in 2023 following her appointment by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Prior to joining the apex bank, she built an impressive career in commercial banking, particularly at United Bank for Africa, where she served as Executive Director for the Northern region. In that position, she oversaw banking operations across several states, guiding strategic growth across more than 150 branches while strengthening the bank’s presence in Northern Nigeria. Her expertise spans retail, commercial, corporate, and public-sector banking, making her one of the most accomplished female banking executives in the country.
Usoro’s professional journey reflects a strong commitment to financial inclusion, strategic leadership, and institutional growth within Nigeria’s banking system. A graduate of Biochemistry from the University of Uyo, she later earned an MBA from Obafemi Awolowo University and attended executive programs at both Harvard Business School and Lagos Business School. Throughout her career she has held various leadership roles including regional director and directorate head in the banking industry, where she became known for driving business expansion, operational excellence, and financial literacy initiatives, particularly in underserved regions. As a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria, she represents a new generation of Nigerian female leaders shaping policy, strengthening financial institutions, and advancing economic development across the country.
MICHELLE ALOZIE
Michelle Alozie is a talented Nigerian-American footballer who has made her mark as a forward for the Nigeria women’s national football team and in international club football. Born in the United States, Alozie developed her football skills at a young age, combining speed, agility, and scoring instinct to become a dynamic presence on the field. She has competed in top-tier leagues abroad, gaining recognition for her technical ability, tactical intelligence, and leadership qualities. As a member of the Super Falcons, she contributes significantly to Nigeria’s dominance in African women’s football, helping the team in continental championships and international tournaments.
Off the pitch, Alozie work part time as a research technician at Texas Children’s Hospital in Houston, specializing in acute leukemia and cancer research.
NKIRU ANUMUDU
Nkiru Anumudu is a well‑known Nigerian society figure and influential fashion icon celebrated for her poised presence, impeccable style, and enduring role in high‑profile social circles in Lagos and beyond. Married to the late billionaire businessman Willie Anumudu, former Chairman of Globe Motors Limited, she became widely recognised in Nigerian elite society for her support of luxury brands, attendance at major fashion and cultural events, and her ability to blend contemporary trends with personal flair, earning her a reputation as one of Nigeria’s most photographed and stylish women. Her fashion sense—often featuring high‑end international designer ensembles—continues to attract attention in lifestyle and society pages, making her an enduring symbol of elegance and sophistication.
Beyond the glitz and glamour, Nkiru Anumudu is also respected for navigating life’s challenges with resilience, particularly after the passing of her husband in 2020, which saw her temporarily withdraw from the social scene before gradually returning with renewed grace and strength. In recent years she has been featured at major fashion shows and social events, often alongside her daughter, highlighting her sustained influence in Nigeria’s fashion and lifestyle spheres.
KEMI IBRU
Kemi DaSilva‑Ibru is a highly respected Nigerian medical doctor, public health specialist, and social activist whose work focuses on improving the health and wellbeing of women and girls across Nigeria and Africa. A trained obstetrician and gynaecologist with over two decades of clinical experience, she combines her medical expertise with a deep commitment to addressing systemic issues affecting women’s health and rights. Dr. DaSilva‑Ibru completed her medical training at the University of Lagos and pursued postgraduate specialisation in obstetrics and gynaecology at Howard University, followed by a master’s degree in public health from Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health; she is currently undertaking a PhD in gender‑based violence at the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine. Her professional journey spans clinical practice, research, public health leadership, and global advocacy, making her a leading voice in women’s health and gender equity.
Dr. DaSilva‑Ibru is best known as the founder and Executive Director of the Women at Risk International Foundation (WARIF), a prominent non‑profit organisation dedicated to combating sexual and gender‑based violence, rape, and the trafficking of girls and young women in Nigeria and beyond. Through WARIF’s holistic model, she has pioneered comprehensive services that include free medical care, psychosocial support, education, community outreach, and advocacy campaigns designed to prevent violence and support survivors. Her leadership has earned her international recognition, including being named to the prestigious Forbes 50 Over 50 Europe, Middle East & Africa list and being invited to serve as a regional representative on the UN ACT Global Civil Society Steering Committee on Ending Violence against Women and Girls. By bridging clinical care with advocacy and policy engagement, Kemi DaSilva‑Ibru continues to advance efforts toward a world where women and girls can live free from violence and discrimination.
ADAOBI NWAKUCHE
Adaobi Nwakuche is a seasoned Nigerian insurance industry leader with over 25 years of experience across key roles in major insurance firms. She currently serves as the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Veritas Kapital Assurance, where she leads strategic direction, business growth, and stakeholder engagement for the publicly‑listed underwriting firm. Before her appointment at Veritas, Nwakuche was the pioneer Managing Director/CEO of Heirs Insurance Limited and has held senior leadership positions including Executive Director at Heirs Holdings Group, Director (Commercial) at Equity Assurance, and other significant roles at Staco and Standard Alliance Insurance, reflecting her deep industry expertise and dynamic leadership. Her appointment at Veritas—which still required final regulatory approval at the time of announcement—underscores her reputation as a respected and influential voice in Nigeria’s insurance sector.
Nwakuche’s career is marked by strategic transformation, strong commercial insight, and commitment to excellence in risk management and underwriting. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Government and Public Administration from Abia State University, an MBA in Business Administration from ESUT Business School, and a Doctorate in Insurance, Risk Management and Corporate Governance from European American University. An alumna of the Harvard Kennedy School and Lagos Business School, she is also a member of both the Chartered Insurance Institute of Nigeria and the Chartered Insurance Institute (UK). Under her leadership, her companies have recorded notable financial growth and enhanced market positioning, showcasing her impact as a transformative leader in Nigeria’s financial services landscape.
TEMILADE OPENIYI (TEMS)
Tems (Temilade Openiyi) is a globally acclaimed Nigerian singer, songwriter, and record producer known for her distinctive voice, Afrobeat-infused sound, and genre-blending style. She first gained widespread recognition with her hit single “Try Me” in 2019, which earned her critical acclaim and established her as one of Africa’s leading female artists. Her music seamlessly fuses Afrobeat, soul, R&B, and alternative sounds, creating a signature style that resonates with audiences worldwide. Tems has collaborated with prominent international artists, most notably contributing to Future’s “Wait For U,” which won the Grammy Award for Best Melodic Rap Performance in 2023, and she has also featured on Beyoncé’s Renaissance album, further cementing her global presence.
Beyond her musical talent, Tems is recognized for her influence on the African music scene and her role as a cultural ambassador for Nigerian music worldwide. She has received multiple awards, including MTV Europe Music Awards, BET Awards, and Headies recognitions, while also being celebrated for her fashion-forward persona and social advocacy.
OMOTOLA EKEINDE
Omotola Ekeinde is one of Nigeria’s most iconic and influential actresses, widely celebrated for her extensive contributions to Nollywood, the country’s thriving film industry. Often referred to as “Omosexy” for her enduring charm and screen presence, she has starred in over 300 films since her debut in the mid-1990s, spanning diverse genres from drama and romance to action and social commentary. Beyond acting, Omotola is also a singer, producer, and entrepreneur, demonstrating remarkable versatility in her career. Her work has earned her numerous accolades, including awards at the Africa Movie Academy Awards, the Nigeria Entertainment Awards, and recognition as one of Time magazine’s 100 most influential people in the world in 2013, highlighting her impact both within and beyond the entertainment industry.
Beyond her professional achievements, Omotola is a committed philanthropist and social advocate. She founded the Omotola Youth Empowerment Program (OYEP), which focuses on supporting underprivileged youth through education, mentorship, and skills acquisition initiatives. She has also collaborated with international organizations, including the United Nations, on campaigns addressing issues such as HIV/AIDS awareness, gender equality, and poverty alleviation.
DAMILOLA OGUNBIYI
Damilola Ogunbiyi is widely recognized as one of the most influential Nigerian women on the global stage in the field of sustainable energy and climate advocacy. An accomplished engineer, policy expert, and development leader, she currently serves as the Chief Executive Officer and Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for Sustainable Energy for All (SEforALL), a global organization working to ensure universal access to sustainable and modern energy. In addition, she co-chairs UN‑Energy, the United Nations’ mechanism for coordinating energy-related activities across the UN system. Ogunbiyi has earned international respect for her strategic leadership in mobilizing governments, private sector stakeholders, and development partners toward accelerating clean energy access, particularly in developing countries where millions still live without reliable electricity.
Before assuming her global leadership roles, Ogunbiyi played a transformative part in Nigeria’s energy sector as the Managing Director of the Rural Electrification Agency (REA) under the Federal Government of Nigeria. During her tenure, she spearheaded ambitious initiatives aimed at expanding off-grid and renewable energy solutions to underserved communities across the country, helping to power homes, schools, hospitals, and small businesses in rural areas. Through innovative programmes and strong international partnerships, she helped position Nigeria as a leading example of how decentralized renewable energy can drive economic development.
FIFI EJINDU
Fifi Ejindu is a distinguished Nigerian architect, entrepreneur, and philanthropist known for her pioneering contributions to architecture, business, and cultural promotion in Africa. Born Offiong Ekanem Ejindu in Ibadan, Nigeria, she comes from a prominent lineage as the great-granddaughter of King James Ekpo Bassey of Cobham Town in Calabar. Educated internationally, she studied architecture at the Pratt Institute in New York, where she became the first Black African woman to earn a Bachelor of Architecture degree from the institution. She later obtained a Master’s degree in Urban Planning and gained professional experience in the United States before returning to Nigeria to build her career. Her architectural style is widely recognized for blending contemporary design with African cultural aesthetics, helping to shape modern Nigerian architecture while preserving elements of traditional heritage.
Beyond architecture, Fifi Ejindu has established herself as a formidable business leader and cultural advocate. In 1995, she founded the Starcrest Group, a diversified conglomerate involved in real estate, construction, project management, and oil and gas. Through this enterprise, she has delivered several high-profile projects and contributed to economic development and job creation in Nigeria. She is also the convener of the African Arts and Fashion Initiative, a platform dedicated to promoting African creativity and providing opportunities for emerging designers and artists. Renowned for her philanthropy and commitment to women’s empowerment, Ejindu has supported numerous initiatives focused on youth development and cultural advancement, earning several international recognitions and awards for her contributions to business, architecture, and society.
STELLA OKOLI
Dr. Stella Chinyelu Okoli is a renowned Nigerian pharmacist, entrepreneur, and one of Africa’s most respected pharmaceutical industry leaders. Born on July 30, 1944, in Kano State, Nigeria, she hails from Nnewi in Anambra State. She studied pharmacy at the University of Bradford in the United Kingdom, where she obtained her Bachelor of Pharmacy degree before gaining professional experience in pharmaceutical practice both abroad and in Nigeria. Driven by a strong vision to improve access to quality medicines in Nigeria, she founded Emzor Pharmaceutical Industries Limited in 1984, starting the business from a small pharmacy shop. Through resilience, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to healthcare delivery, Okoli gradually transformed the company into one of the largest indigenous pharmaceutical manufacturers in Nigeria.
Under her leadership, Emzor grew into a major healthcare brand producing a wide range of essential medicines, including analgesics, vitamins, and antibiotics widely used across Nigeria and beyond. Stella Okoli’s entrepreneurial success has played a crucial role in strengthening Nigeria’s local pharmaceutical manufacturing capacity and reducing reliance on imported drugs. Beyond business, she is widely respected for her philanthropy and dedication to public health initiatives, supporting educational scholarships, medical outreach programmes, and community development projects. Over the years, her outstanding contributions to healthcare, entrepreneurship, and national development have earned her numerous awards and honours, firmly establishing her as one of Nigeria’s most influential women in business and healthcare.
DAISY DANJUMA
Daisy Danjuma is a prominent Nigerian politician, business executive, and philanthropist who has made remarkable contributions to governance and the corporate sector in Nigeria. Born Daisy Ehanire Danjuma on August 6, 1952, in Benin City, Edo State, she received her early education in Nigeria before studying law at the Ahmadu Bello University in Zaria. After being called to the Nigerian Bar, she began her professional career as a legal officer at the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), where she later rose to the position of company secretary and legal adviser. Her passion for public service eventually led her into politics, and in 2003 she was elected as the Senator representing Edo South Senatorial District in the Nigerian Senate, where she served until 2007 and was known for her advocacy on social welfare and national development issues.
Beyond politics, Daisy Danjuma has established herself as a highly respected figure in Nigeria’s business landscape. She is the Executive Vice Chairman of South Atlantic Petroleum (SAPETRO), a major indigenous oil and gas exploration company founded by her husband, Theophilus Danjuma. Through her leadership role, she has contributed significantly to the growth of the company and to the advancement of indigenous participation in Nigeria’s energy sector. Known for her elegance, intellect, and philanthropy, Danjuma has also been actively involved in humanitarian initiatives, particularly those that promote women’s empowerment, education, and community development. Her achievements across politics, business, and social advocacy have firmly positioned her as one of Nigeria’s influential female leaders.
BOLA SHAGAYA
Bola Shagaya is a prominent Nigerian entrepreneur, philanthropist, and influential figure in the country’s business and social circles. Born on October 10, 1959, in Ilorin, Kwara State, she had her early education in Nigeria before furthering her studies abroad. She began her professional career in the banking sector, working with the Central Bank of Nigeria before venturing into private enterprise. In 1983, she founded Bolmus Group International, a diversified conglomerate with interests spanning oil and gas, real estate, banking, and photography. Through her business acumen and strategic investments, Shagaya steadily built a thriving enterprise that established her as one of Nigeria’s most successful female entrepreneurs.
Beyond her corporate achievements, Bola Shagaya is widely respected for her philanthropy and commitment to community development. She has supported numerous charitable initiatives through the Bola Shagaya Foundation, focusing particularly on education, healthcare, and empowerment programmes for women and young people. Known for her elegance, generosity, and strong influence within Nigeria’s elite circles, she has also served as a patron and supporter of several cultural and humanitarian organisations. Over the years, her contributions to business, philanthropy, and national development have earned her numerous recognitions, including national honours such as the Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON), further boosting her reputation as one of Nigeria’s notable and impactful women.
PATIENCE JONATHAN
Patience Jonathan is an educationist, politician, and women’s rights advocate who gained national prominence as the First Lady of Nigeria from 2010 to 2015 during the presidency of her husband, Goodluck Jonathan. Born on October 25, 1957, in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, she had her early education in Rivers State before pursuing higher studies in education. She attended the Rivers State College of Education where she obtained the Nigeria Certificate in Education (NCE), and later earned a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Port Harcourt. Before entering the national spotlight, she worked as a teacher and later as a public servant in the Rivers State civil service, gradually building a career in education and community development.
As First Lady, Patience Jonathan became widely known for her advocacy for women’s empowerment, youth development, and improved healthcare services. She founded and supported several initiatives aimed at uplifting women and vulnerable groups, including the Women for Change and Development Initiative, a platform dedicated to encouraging greater participation of women in politics and leadership across Nigeria. Through her programmes and public engagements, she championed issues relating to maternal health, girl-child education, and social inclusion. Despite attracting both admiration and criticism during her time in public office, Patience Jonathan remains a notable figure in Nigeria’s political and social landscape, remembered for her strong grassroots appeal and her efforts to amplify the voices of women in governance.
UJU IFEJIKA
Uju Ifejika is a prominent Nigerian entrepreneur, industrialist, and corporate leader recognized for her contributions to Nigeria’s maritime, oil and gas, and logistics sectors. She studied law at the Ahmadu Bello University in Zaria and was later called to the Nigerian Bar, beginning her professional career in legal practice. Driven by a strong entrepreneurial spirit, she later ventured into business and established herself as a key player in Nigeria’s marine and energy industries. Her strategic vision and leadership enabled her to build successful enterprises in sectors traditionally dominated by men, positioning her as one of Nigeria’s influential female business figures.
Uju Ifejika is the founder and Chief Executive Officer of Brittania-U Nigeria Limited, an indigenous oil exploration and production company involved in upstream petroleum operations. She is also the chairperson of Brittania-U Group, which has interests in shipping, logistics, oil and gas services, and energy. Under her leadership, the company has secured significant oil blocks and expanded its presence within Nigeria’s energy sector. Known for her resilience and strategic leadership, Ifejika has also been active in promoting indigenous participation in the oil industry and encouraging women’s involvement in business and leadership. Through her achievements and influence, she has become a role model for aspiring entrepreneurs and a respected figure in Nigeria’s corporate landscape.
BIMBO OLOYEDE
Bimbo Oloyede is a distinguished Nigerian broadcast journalist, media executive, and communications expert widely regarded as one of the pioneers of modern television broadcasting in Nigeria. Born in Ibadan, Oyo State, she received her education both in Nigeria and abroad, studying journalism and communications in the United States. She rose to national prominence in the 1970s and 1980s as a presenter on the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), where she anchored the widely respected news and current affairs programme Newsline. Through her eloquence, professionalism, and commanding on-screen presence, Oloyede became one of the most recognizable faces on Nigerian television and played a significant role in shaping broadcast journalism in the country.
Beyond her work as a broadcaster, Bimbo Oloyede has made substantial contributions to media development, communications consulting, and leadership training. She later founded El‑Argent Media, a media and communications consultancy firm that provides training and advisory services to organizations and professionals. She has also served as a mentor and advocate for excellence in journalism, helping to nurture a new generation of media practitioners. Renowned for her articulate delivery, intellectual depth, and dedication to ethical journalism, Oloyede remains an influential figure in Nigeria’s media landscape and a respected voice in discussions on communication, leadership, and national development.
TOBI AMUSAN
Tobi Amusan is a world-class Nigerian sprinter and hurdler who has brought global recognition to Nigeria through her extraordinary performances in athletics. Born on April 23, 1997, in Ijebu Ode, Ogun State, she began her athletic journey at a young age, demonstrating remarkable speed and agility in school competitions. Amusan honed her skills at the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) in the United States, where she studied and competed for the university’s track and field team, gaining international exposure and refining her technique in the 100-meter hurdles, her signature event. Her dedication, discipline, and relentless pursuit of excellence quickly set her apart as one of the most promising athletes in Africa.
Tobi Amusan’s career has been marked by historic achievements and record-breaking performances. She became the first Nigerian to win a gold medal in the 100-meter hurdles at the World Athletics Championships, setting a new world record of 12.12 seconds in the semifinals. She has also represented Nigeria in multiple Olympic Games, African Championships, and Commonwealth Games, earning several medals and accolades along the way. Beyond her athletic feats, Amusan is celebrated for her role as a trailblazer for African women in sports, inspiring young athletes across the continent to pursue excellence. Her determination, sportsmanship, and global achievements have cemented her reputation as one of Nigeria’s most influential and accomplished female athletes.
FOLU ADEBOYE
Folu Adeboye, fondly called Mummy G.O. or Mother‑in‑Israel, is a respected Nigerian pastor, educator, mentor, and global Christian leader. Born Foluke Adenike Adeyokunnu on July 13, 1948, she comes from a royal family in Ijesha, Osun State, and pursued a life dedicated to education and service. She trained as a teacher at the United Missionary College in Ibadan and later worked passionately in teaching and Christian education early in her ministry. She is best known as the wife of Enoch Adejare Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), and has been a powerful spiritual influence both within Nigeria and internationally.
Pastor Folu Adeboye’s impact extends far beyond her role as a pastor’s spouse — she is an advocate for education, women’s empowerment, and community development. Over the decades, she has played a pivotal role in establishing and growing Christian education initiatives, including numerous schools under the RCCG umbrella, and has championed literacy and vocational training for vulnerable groups. She founded outreach ministries such as Habitation of Hope to support and empower street‑connected youths and Africa Missions Global for evangelism and community transformation. In addition to her educational and humanitarian work, she organizes the annual Feast of Esther, a fellowship for women leaders, and has received recognition for her leadership, including being appointed Chancellor of Caleb University in Lagos state in 2026.
NATASHA AKPOTI-UDUAGHAN
Natasha Akpoti‑Uduaghan is a Nigerian lawyer, entrepreneur, and politician who has risen to national prominence through her advocacy, legal expertise, and determined pursuit of public office. Born Natasha Hadiza Akpoti on December 9, 1979, in Ilorin to a Nigerian father and a Ukrainian mother, she received her early education in Nigeria before studying law at the University of Abuja and being called to the Nigerian Bar in 2005 after attending the Nigerian Law School. She later earned a Master’s in Business Administration from the University of Dundee in Scotland. Before entering politics, Akpoti‑Uduaghan worked as legal counsel at Brass LNG and founded the Builders Hub Impact Investment Program (BHIIP), focusing on community development and empowerment. She first contested elective office in 2019 and, in 2023, was elected as the first female senator from Kogi State, representing the Kogi Central Senatorial District under the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).
As a senator, Natasha Akpoti‑Uduaghan has been a vocal advocate for gender equality, social justice, infrastructure development, and the economic revitalisation of her constituency. She has championed initiatives for the revival of the Ajaokuta Steel Mill and legislative efforts on gender-based violence and women’s rights, earning accolades such as the Politician of the Year award at the 2023 Leadership Excellence Awards and the This Day Senator of the Year award in 2025.
DAME WINIFRED AKPANI
Dame Winifred Akpani is one of Nigeria’s most influential businesswomen and a trailblazer in the traditionally male‑dominated oil and gas industry. Born and educated in Nigeria—with a B.Sc. in Mathematics from the University of Benin and a Postgraduate Diploma in Computer Science from the University of Lagos—she began her career as a trainee accountant and qualified as a Chartered Accountant, rising to senior roles in prominent firms before pivoting to petroleum. In 1998, with just ₦200,000 in capital, she founded Northwest Petroleum & Gas Company Limited, which she grew from a small diesel supplier into a multimillion‑dollar, pan‑African energy enterprise with hundreds of modern fuel stations, large storage terminals, and upstream investments. Under her visionary leadership, Northwest is licensed for crude oil export and is a major indigenous player in Nigeria’s energy sector—a testament to her resilience, business acumen, and commitment to developing local capacity.
Beyond corporate success, Akpani has become a role model for women in leadership and entrepreneurship, earning numerous awards and national recognition for her impact. She received the 2024/25 Zik Prize in Entrepreneurial Leadership, honoring her transformative contributions to Nigeria’s economy and empowerment of local businesses. She has also served as Chairperson of the Depot and Petroleum Products Marketers Association of Nigeria (DAPPMAN), helping to shape industry policy, and holds fellowships with major professional bodies. Her philanthropic initiatives and personal honours—including national awards and papal commendations—reflect a commitment to community development, education, and empowerment that extends far beyond her corporate achievements, inspiring a new generation of African women to break glass ceilings in male‑dominated fields.
BELLA DISU
Born Belinda Ajoke Adenuga, on May 29, 1986 to the duo of Emelia Adefolake Marquis, a Nigerian entrepreneur, and the global phenomenon, Dr. Mike Adenuga Jr., Bella received her early education in Lagos, at the prestigious Corona School in Victoria Island before enrolling at Queen’s College for her secondary education. In 1998, she transferred to Vivian Fowler Memorial College for Girls, where she concluded her secondary education.
She proceeded to the University of Massachusetts, Boston, USA, where she obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree in International Relations, and later, a Master of Science degree in Leadership from the Northeastern University, also in Boston.
Mercy Nnenda Chinwo is an accomplished singer, songwriter, and actress, born on September 5, 1990. She is simply known professionally as Mercy Chinwo or Mercy Chinwo-Blessed, by virtue of marriage.She gained recognition after winning the second season of Nigerian Idol. In 2017, she signed a recording contract with EeZee Conceptz. Chinwo has released the albums The Cross: My Gaze (2018), Satisfied (2020), Overwhelming Victory (2024) and In His Will (2025).In 2023, she and her husband, whom she married in 2022 established the MercyisBlessed Foundation, an NGO focused on helping underprivileged communities and youth development. Beyond being a gospel singer, Mercy is also a minister.FLORENCE ITA-GIWA
Florence Ita Giwa is the former wife of the legendary journalist, Dele Giwa, who was killed via a letter bomb in 1986. She was born on February 19, 1946, and is reputed for her contributions in politics and advocacy.
She served as a Senator representing the good people of Cross River South Senatorial District of Cross River State from 1999, where she was appointed to committees on Rules and Procedures, Environment, Foreign Affairs, Women, Niger Delta and Drug & Narcotics
She also 1992 served as a member of the House of Representatives.
Ita-Giwa became involved in Bakassi affairs, and earned the nickname “Mama Bakassi”.
ENE OBI
Ene Obi is a frontline activist, who served as the Country Director of ActionAid Nigeria until her retirement in 2023. During her tenure, she worked with local women leaders to challenge power dynamics, increase women’s participation in decision-making processes, and end violence against women and girls.
Her emergence as president of the University of Jos students union in the late 1980s remains symbolic for the radical rebellious industry as well as a statement in gender equity. This is particularly so that hers is only the second of such statement before then in northern Nigeria, the other case being that Najatu Mohammad at the Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria around the same era.
She has remained resolute in the struggle for women rights, especially with the call for special seats for women in the National Assembly, and as against oppressive government laws and policies.
NIKE OGUNLESI
Mrs. Adenike Ogunlesi is the Founder and Creative Director of Africa’s leading Premium children’s clothing brand, Ruff ‘n’ Tumble.
She is an alumnus of the prestigious Lagos Business School. Adenike is a Non-Executive Director at Lafarge Holcim Plc and the founding member and first president of the Network of Entrepreneurial Women (NNEW) at the Nigeria Employer’s Consultative Association (NECA).
She is also an advisory board member and mentor at WISCAR (Women in Successful Careers), a structured mentoring programme for young women, and the Coordinator of The Marriage & Family Life Unit at the Catholic Church of the Presentation.
FUNKE EGBEMODE
Funke Egbemode
Funke is a journalist and columnist with a career spanning over three decades. She has worked with several prominent Nigerian newspapers, including Punch, Post Express, ThisDay, Saturday Independent, and Daily Sun. She is currently a columnist with The Sun Newspaper.
She currently serves as the head of the secretariat of the International Press Institute (IPI) in Nigeria. She is a board member of the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN), a position she has held since 2006.
Funke served as the President of Nigerian Guild of Editors for two terms. She is currently the Commissioner for Information and Orientation in Osun State, Nigeria.
CHIOMA AKPOTHA
Also known as Chiona Chukwuka, Chioma Akpotha is a prolific actress, director and movie producer. She has seen and been a part of the foundational and development of the Nigerian movie, she ventured into it at the age of 19 in 2000 with her debut movie, ‘The Apple’.
In 2007, she won the Africa Movie Academy Award for “Best Actress in a leading role” for her performance in the movie “Sins of the Flesh”, and the Afro Hollywood award for best actress in a lead role in 2010.
Chioma is reputed as one of the very few actresses, who have never recorded a scandal in the movie industry.
With 20 years of experience, she has starred in more than 350 Nollywood movies, produced 6 movies and has many awards to her credit. As a film maker, Chioma has produced/co-produced over 8 movies including the award-nominated blockbuster On Bended Knees. Chioma Chukwuka is also a public speaker and mentor.
Chioma has been the loving wife of Franklyn Akpotha since 2006, and blessed with three children.
OLAYINKA PAMELA ADEDAYO
A former Federal Civil Servant, who served as an Administrative Officer with the Federal Ministry of Finance from 1981-1990, Princess Pamela Adedayo is the Founder/CEO of notable eatery, Tastes Fried Chicken (TFC), an offshoot of her experience from working with Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC), in Chicago, USA, working as Store Manager between 1978-1980.
She is the pioneer National President of the Restaurant and Food Services Proprietors Association of Nigeria- (REFSPAN), formerly known as the Association of Fast Foods Confectioners of Nigeria (AFFCON), and established Tastee Pot Limited in 1991, which transmuted to TFC in later days.
She is known for her philanthropic gestures, and has been decorated with so many awards.
ESTHER OKORONKWO
Esther Okoronkwo is the Abia State-born Super Falcons playmaker, who was raised in Richmond, Texas, United States.
She came to limelight when her superlative performance helped the Falcons with their 10th African Championship in Morocco in 2025.
Adefemi is a broadcast journalist, public speaker and advocate for press freedom. She has worked with some of the world’s leading news networks including Al Jazeera, Reuters, Sky News and TRT World and is the International Correspondent and Anchor at Arise News based in Lagos, Nigeria.Adefemi is a 2023 Fellow at the Nieman Foundation for Journalism at Harvard University. She holds a BA in International Politics from King’s College London. Adefemi has been on the frontline of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, covering the refugee crisis and the role of race in the early war evacuation effort. She has reported from the U.S. Presidential elections and the 2025 inauguration, the World Economic Forum in Davos, the International Monetary Fund & World Bank Spring Meetings in Washington DC, as well as the G7 Forum in Cornwall. Adefemi has interviewed, one-on-one, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Director-General of the World Trade Organisation, former British Prime Minister Tony Blair, and Amina Mohammed, Deputy Secretary-General at the United Nations.
RASHEEDAT AJIBADE
Rasheedat is the present captain of the Super Falcons, who led the team to their 10th WAFCON victory in July 2026, in Morocco.
She was born on December 8, 1999) is a Nigerian professional footballer, and plays as a forward for French Première Ligue club Paris Saint-Germain.
Rasheedat has represented Nigeria in all categories including under-17, under-20 and senior national team, and has scored crucial goals that gave hard fought victories to the Super Falcons.
Rasheedat, a member of the Mountain of Fire and Ministeries, is highly spiritual.
SHADE OKOYA
Shade, the beautiful wife of billionaire industrialist, Razaq Okoya, is a distinguished entrepreneur, who was born on April 25, 1977.
She is the MD/CEO of Eleganza Group, a leading conglomerate in Nigeria’s manufacturing industry, founded by her husband.
Shade is the sponsor of the Folashade Okoya Kids Cup, which held its maiden edition in December 2014 in partnership with the Lagos State Grassroots Soccer Association to celebrate kids at Christmas. She also sponsors 10 students yearly into Higher Institutions via a scholarship scheme and organizes yearly pilgrimage for Muslims to visit the holy land among others.
TIWA SAVAGE
Tiwa Savage is one of the biggest pop stars to emerge from West Africa, with numerous hits and international awards to her name.
Initially active in the music business as a backing singer and songwriter, she arrived in the early 2010s with a hybrid form of dance-pop that synthesizes Afro-pop, reggae, and contemporary R&B, singing in English and Yoruba.
Already a major success by the time her debut Once Upon a Time arrived in 2013, Savage continued releasing hits throughout the following decade and expanded her global reach, performing at international festivals and venues and appearing on the 2019 soundtrack The Lion King: The Gift.
With releases like 2020’s Celia and 2021’s Water & Garri EP, her sound grew to incorporate vintage Afrobeat influences, while her lyrics became more socially conscious and female empowering. She co-produced and starred in the movie Water & Garri, which appeared in 2024, along with its soundtrack. This One Is Personal, her fourth album, was released in 2025.
Born and raised in Lagos, Nigeria, Tiwatope Savage moved with her family to England when she was 11 years old. During the latter half of the ’90s, she established herself as a background vocalist, and opted to leave the accounting world when she was sought by Mary J. Blige. Though she had a business administration degree from Kent University, she furthered her music career by attending Berklee College of Music on scholarship.
Tiwa is a typical example of the true Nigerian spirit that is at home with what she wants.
Prior to her graduation, she competed on The X Factor (U.K.) during series three and made it to the final 24. During the next couple years, Savage raised her stock with additional background work, such as an appearance on Whitney Houston’s I Look to You (2009), and the landing of songwriting credits on a handful of albums, including Fantasia’s Grammy-nominated Back to Me.
CHIDINMA EKILE
Ekile is a musician prodigy known professionally by her first name, Chidinma.
She is an accomplished singer, songwriter, and actress, born of Imo State origin, but in Ketu, Kosofe, Lagos State.
Chidinma took limelight by storm, when she mermerised audience in 2010, ro win the third season of Project Fame West Africa.
Chidinma became the first female musician to peak at number 1 on the MTV Base Official Naija Top 10 chart after releasing the music video for her single “Emi Ni Baller”. In 2011, she released the Sound Sultan-assisted single “Jankoliko”. Her eponymous debut album, Chidinma, which was released via the music platform Spinlet, yielded the singles “Jankoliko”, “Carry You Go”, “Kedike” and “Run Dia Mouth”.
Chidinma won Best Female West African Act at the 2012 Kora Awards and performed “Kedike” at the ceremony.
In May 2021, Chidinma revealed her transition to gospel music and full Christian ministry. She released the gospel single “Jehovah Overdo” that same mont, and more followed.
Chidinma founded the NMA Foundation to help visually impaired children and young people across Africa. The foundation’s name was derived from the last three letters of her name.
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