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Top 10 Nigerian Women Making Impact In Various Field
Nigeria is proud to have a group of remarkable women who are making a significant impact in their respective fields. These women have overcome challenges and are inspiring others to follow in their footsteps.
These exceptional individuals are leading the way and leaving a lasting impression on society. Their dedication and talent have earned them recognition and admiration. They serve as role models for others to emulate.
In this article, RNN will Highlight the top 10 Nigerian women who are making a noteworthy difference in their areas of expertise.
1. Oluremi Tinubu
Oluremi Tinubu, a Nigerian politician, is currently serving as the first lady of Nigeria since 2023. She is married to President Bola Tinubu. From 1999 to 2007, she was the first lady of Lagos State when her husband served as governor. Additionally, she served as the senator representing Lagos Central Senatorial District at the Nigerian National Assembly from 2011 to 2023. She is a member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) political party.
As a first lady, Oluremi Tinubu has shown unwavering dedication to serving her community and uplifting those in need.
Oluremi Tinubu has been a vocal advocate for change. She has used her platform to raise awareness about social issues and has been instrumental in initiating important conversations that have led to significant progress.
She’s making an impact in her field as a Nigerian first lady through her unwavering commitment, tireless efforts, and meaningful initiatives.
2. Folorunsho Alakija
Folorunsho Alakija is a Nigerian businesswoman and philanthropist. She is the Group Managing Director at The Rose of Sharon Group and executive vice-chairman at Famfa Oil Limited. Forbes has recognized her as the richest woman in Nigeria.
She is a Nigerian billionaire businesswoman involved in the Fashion, Oil, Real Estate, and Printing industries. She holds key positions as the group managing director of the Rose of Sharon Group and the Executive Vice Chairman of FAMFA Oil Limited. Additionally, she has a majority stake in Day Spring Property Development Company.
Forbes ranks her as the richest woman in Nigeria, estimating her net worth at $1 billion. In 2015, she was listed as the second most powerful woman in Africa, following Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, and the 87th most powerful woman in the world by Forbes.
Alakija is an exceptional woman who has made a significant impact in her industry. Through her hard work and dedication, she has achieved remarkable success, inspiring others along the way. Her achievements are a testament to her determination and skills, showing that anyone can reach their goals with the right mindset.
3. Aisha Yesufu
Aisha Somtochukwu Yesufu is a Nigerian activist and businesswoman who is known for her involvement in two major movements. She co-founded the #BringBackOurGirls movement, which aimed to raise awareness about the abduction of over 200 girls from a secondary school in Chibok, Nigeria, on April 14, 2014. This abduction was carried out by the terrorist group Boko Haram.
Aisha has also played a significant role in the #ENDSARS movement, which focuses on putting an end to police brutality in Nigeria.
Aisha is an extraordinary individual who has made a remarkable impact in her field. Her influence and achievements have made her a true trailblazer. Through her exceptional work, she has left a significant mark, standing out among her peers.
In 2020, Yesufu was recognized as one of BBC’s 100 Women and featured in New African magazine’s list of the Top 100 Most Influential Africans.
4. Bola Shagaya
Hajia Bola Muinat Shagaya MON is a Nigerian businesswoman and fashion enthusiast. She is one of the richest women in Africa. She is the founder and CEO of Bolmus Group International, a conglomerate with holdings in real estate, oil and gas, banking, and photography.
Bola Shagaya is well-known in the world of business and entrepreneurship. Her impressive accomplishments and determination have made her a force to be with.
Shagaya has made a lasting impact in her field, demonstrating her exceptional skills and knowledge. Her story of success serves as an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs.
Throughout her journey, Shagaya has overcome countless challenges, proving her abilities repeatedly. Her commitment and drive have propelled her to incredible achievements, earning her a respected reputation as a trailblazer.
5. Kemi Adeosun
Kemi Adeosun is the former Finance Minister of Nigeria and former chairman of the Board of the African Export-Import Bank.
From 1994 to 2000, she was the Manager of Internal Audit at London Underground Limited, London, and Prism Consulting. Then, from 2000 to 2002, she worked as a Senior Manager at Price Waterhouse Coopers, London. She became the financial controller at Chapel Hill Denham Management, and later in 2010, she became the Managing Director. In 2010 and 2011, she worked as the Managing Director at Quo Vadis Partnership.
In November 2015, Nigerian Ex-President, Muhammadu Buhari appointed Adeosun Kemi as Nigeria’s Minister of Finance. Later, at the annual general meeting of Afreximbank in Abuja, marking its 25th anniversary, Adeosun became the board chairman. She took over from the previous chairman, Ndagijimana Uzziel, who served as the Minister of Finance for the Republic of Rwanda.
6. Gbemisola Ruqayyah Saraki
Gbemisola Ruqayyah Saraki is a Nigerian politician. She became the Minister of State for Mines and Steel Development of Nigeria on July 6, 2022.
Gbemisola Ruqayyah Saraki is the Minister of State for Transportation in Nigeria. She served as a senator for eight years from 2003 to 2011. During her time as a senator, she chaired the Senate Committee on National Planning, Poverty Alleviation, and Economic Affairs. She also held the position of vice-chairperson of the Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs. Saraki’s political career is focused on making a positive impact on the lives of her constituents and her state.
She is dedicated to improving our nation’s standing in key areas like poverty, corruption, economic development, education, energy, health, agriculture, water resources, and the empowerment of women and youths. Saraki is an idealist who believes in and advocates for youth engagement and participation in social development.
7. Funke Akindele
Funke Akindele, also known as Jenifa, is a well-known Nigerian filmmaker, director, actress, politician, and producer. She gained fame for her role in the sitcom “I Need to Know” from 1998 to 2002. In 2009, she received the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actress in a Leading Role.
Funke is a prominent figure who has been making a significant impact in her field. With her outstanding contributions and achievements, she has become a role model for many aspiring individuals.
Akindele’s presence in the entertainment industry is undeniable. She has captivated audiences with her talent and versatility, showcasing her skills in acting, producing, and directing. Her ability to bring characters to life on the screen has earned her widespread acclaim and recognition.
8. Tiwa Savage
Tiwatope Savage, known professionally as Tiwa Savage, is a Nigerian singer, songwriter, and actress who has been called the Queen of Afrobeats. Savage sings in English and Yoruba; her music is a blend of Afrobeats, R&B, pop, and hip-hop.
Tiwa is a popular musician who has gained fame in recent years. She is known for her talent and hard work, which have impressed audiences worldwide. Tiwa Savage was born in Nigeria and started her musical journey at a young age.
She had a passion for singing and would often perform at local events. Her strong voice and stage presence caught the attention of music producers, leading to a record deal. Since then, Tiwa Savage has released many successful songs that have topped the charts. She combines Afrobeat and R&B, creating a unique style that has attracted a loyal fan base. Her lyrics often focus on love, empowerment, and social issues, connecting with listeners from diverse backgrounds.
9. Catherine Uju Ifejika
Catherine Uju Ifejika is a Nigerian lawyer and Chairperson/CEO of Brittania-U Nigeria Limited; an indigenous petroleum company for upstream exploration and production, and Brittania-U Ghana Limited.
Uju Ifejika is an impressive individual who has made a significant impact in her field. She has achieved remarkable milestones and gained recognition through her dedication and expertise.
In her chosen profession, Ifejika has shown exemplary skills and a deep understanding of the subject. Her contributions have been invaluable, consistently bringing about positive change.
A key factor in Catherine Uju Ifejika’s success is her unwavering commitment to her work. She consistently goes beyond expectations, investing time and effort to ensure the flawless execution of her projects.
10. Kafayat Shafau (Kaffy)
Kafayat Oluwatoyin Shafau, known as Kaffy, is a well-known Nigerian dancer, choreographer, dance instructor, and fitness coach. She is the founder and owner of Imagneto Dance Company.
In 2006, Kaffy and her dance group broke the Guinness Book of Records for the “Longest Dance Party” by dancing non-stop for 55 hours and 40 minutes.
Currently, Kaffy is a dance instructor who has developed unique methods using visualization to teach dance and dance fitness in a fast and effective way.
Kafayat Shafau is an influential figure who has been making a significant impact in her field. Her accomplishments and contributions have garnered attention and praise from both peers and admirers alike.