Bisina SomtoAs we celebrate International Women’s Day (IWD) this year, it’s not only a time to reflect on the progress made in advancing gender equality but also an opportunity to recognize the extraordinary contributions of women who have significantly impacted the Nigerian society.
In Nigeria’s history, numerous women have left an unforgettable mark, broken barriers, and paved the way for future generations. Let’s celebrate 15 remarkable Nigerian women whose contributions have reshaped history and championed the cause of inclusion.
15 Nigerian Women Who Changed History
Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
Renowned author and feminist icon, Adichie’s works advocate for gender equality and challenge societal norms. Her history breaking TED Talk, “We Should All Be Feminists,” continues to inspire millions worldwide.
Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala
A trailblazer in global economics, Dr. Okonjo-Iweala shattered glass ceilings as the first African and first woman to lead the World Trade Organization (WTO), driving forward the agenda of inclusivity in international trade.
Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti
A fearless activist and mother of Fela Kuti, Funmilayo played a pivotal role in Nigeria’s independence movement and fought tirelessly for women’s rights, education, and healthcare. She was also the first Nigerian Woman to drive a car.
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Hajiya Gambo Sawaba
A prominent Northern Nigerian politician, Sawaba championed the cause of women’s suffrage and social justice, challenging patriarchal norms in Nigerian society.
Dora Akunyili
As the former Director-General of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), Akunyili led groundbreaking campaigns against counterfeit drugs, ensuring the safety and health of millions of Nigerians.
Buchi Emecheta
A prolific writer, Emecheta’s novels explored themes of gender, identity, and migration, shedding light on the complexities of the African woman’s experience.
Prof. Grace Alele-Williams
The first female Vice-Chancellor of a Nigerian university, Alele-Williams broke barriers in academia and paved the way for women’s leadership in higher education.
Tiwa Savage
A trailblazing musician and advocate for women’s empowerment, Tiwa Savage uses her platform to challenge stereotypes and advocate for gender equality in the entertainment industry.
Amina Mohammed
Serving as the Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations, Mohammed has been a vocal advocate for sustainable development and gender equality, driving inclusive policies on a global scale.
Chinwe Chukwuogo-Roy
An accomplished artist, Chukwuogo-Roy’s paintings celebrate Nigerian culture and challenge perceptions of beauty, promoting inclusivity and diversity in the art world.
Oby Ezekwesili
A prominent advocate for good governance and transparency, Ezekwesili co-founded the Bring Back Our Girls movement, demanding justice and accountability for the abducted Chibok schoolgirls.
Flora Nwapa
Considered the mother of African literature, Nwapa’s novels portrayed strong female protagonists and explored themes of gender, tradition, and modernity in Igbo society.
Folake Solanke, SAN
A trailblazing lawyer, Solanke became the first female Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), breaking barriers in Nigeria’s legal profession and inspiring future generations of female lawyers.
Margaret Ekpo
A pioneering women’s rights activist and politician, Ekpo played a key role in Nigeria’s struggle for independence and advocated for women’s inclusion in politics and decision-making.
Ladi Kwali
Celebrated as Nigeria’s foremost potter, Kwali’s exquisite pottery art garnered international acclaim, showcasing the cultural richness and artistic prowess of Nigerian women.
On International Women’s Day 2024, as we celebrate the achievements of these remarkable women, let us reaffirm our commitment to inspire inclusion, recognizing the invaluable contributions of women from all walks of life.
As we honour their legacies, may we continue to strive for a more inclusive and equitable world, where every woman has the opportunity to thrive and make history.
Somto is an Entertainment Reporter with a passion for uncovering the latest stories in the world of entertainment. As a dedicated journalist, Somto delivers in-depth reporting, exclusive interviews, and breaking news coverage.
She covers a wide range of topics, from celebrity interviews to industry trends and film reviews.
As an Entertainment Reporter for Prime Business Africa, She continues to provide comprehensive and insightful coverage of the entertainment industry, offering readers an insider's perspective on the latest developments and trends. She is a trusted source for breaking news, exclusive interviews, and thought-provoking analyses.
Somto is dedicated to providing valuable information and entertainment to her audience while upholding the highest standards of journalistic integrity.
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