These trailblazers are not only breaking barriers, but also inspiring a generation of women throughout the world. This year, under the campaign theme “Inspire Inclusion,” let us recognize some outstanding Nigerian women who are making important contributions overseas in a variety of professions, setting the benchmark for excellence and leadership....CONTINUE READING
1. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala
Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala is a trailblazing Nigerian-American economist who has made substantial contributions to international finance. As the first Nigerian woman to serve as Finance Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, she was instrumental in negotiating a significant debt cancellation for Nigeria. Okonjo-Iweala’s term at the World Bank and historic nomination as the World Trade Organization’s first female Director-General demonstrate her leadership and experience. Her efforts to improve Nigeria’s financial stability and promote fiscal openness have garnered her international recognition, placing her among the world’s most powerful women.
2. Ndidi Nwuneli
Ndidi Okonkwo Nwuneli is a seasoned entrepreneur with over 25 years of expertise in international development, specializing in African agriculture and nutrition. Nwuneli has been in the vanguard of social innovation in Africa, having founded LEAP Africa and African Food Changemakers, as well as co-founding Sahel Consulting Agriculture & Nutrition Ltd. and AACE Foods Processing & Distribution Ltd. Her recent appointment as CEO of the ONE campaign demonstrates her dedication to combating extreme poverty and avoidable diseases in Africa, as she leads a global team to promote change and inspire inclusion.
3. Adejoke Bakare
Adejoke Bakare, a culinary genius from Nigeria, has taken the United Kingdom by storm with her West African-themed restaurant, Chishuru. Chishuru, located in London, is the UK’s first black female-owned restaurant to gain a Michelin star, a testament to Bakare’s remarkable culinary skills. Her creative West African food has acquired a large following and received a perfect review score from The Sunday Times magazine. Bakare’s accomplishments have been recognized by Great British Chefs and the National Restaurant Awards, with her restaurant ranking among the top 100 in the UK.
4. Abigail Marshall Katung
Abigail Wok Marshall Katung, a Nigerian-British politician, made history as Leeds’ Lord Mayor, becoming the city council’s first elected African. Her tenure has been distinguished by notable accomplishments, notably the successful prosecution of David Oluwale, a Nigerian migrant who sadly died in the UK. Katung, a two-term representative for the Little London and Woodhouse Wards and co-chair of Leeds City Council’s official ‘Food Champion,’ has shown a commitment to community service and social justice.
5. Simidele Adeagbo
Simidele Adeagbo, a Nigerian-born athlete, has achieved significant progress in the field of winter sports. She made history as the first African athlete to compete in bobsleigh at the IBSF World Championships during the 2018 Winter Olympics. Adeagbo’s remarkable triumph in the 2022 EuroCup women’s mono bob event made her the first African athlete to win an international sliding tournament. Her commitment to fostering women and girls in sports through the SimiSleighs Foundation, as well as her status as an Olympian for Life, demonstrate her contributions to winter sports and the promotion of Olympic principles.
6. Zain Asher
Zain Ejiofor Asher, a British Nigerian news anchor, has become a significant figure at CNN International, co-hosting the network’s primetime show One World from New York City. Asher has covered big worldwide events such as the Beirut explosion and the End SARS protests in Nigeria. Her memoir, Where The Children Take Us, inspired by her Tedx lecture “Trust Your Struggle,” details her journey and her mother’s determination to ensure her children’s education and possibilities in England. Asher’s success and influence continue to motivate women globally.
7. Wunmi Mosaku
Wunmi Mosaku, a Nigerian-born British actress, has had tremendous success in her acting career. Her outstanding performance in Damilola, Our Loved Boy got her the BAFTA TV Award for Best Supporting Actress.
8. Toyosi Ogunseye
Oluwatoyosi Ogunseye is a Nigerian journalist who made history as the first female editor of Punch Newspaper in its 50-year run. Ogunseye’s work has garnered over 25 media honors, including the CNN MultiChoice African Journalist of the Year honors. Her leadership experiences at the BBC World Service and as President & CEO of the United States Presidential Precinct illustrate her dedication to providing effective leadership programming and fostering young leaders.
