IWD 2024: 10 exceptional Nigerian women inspiring inclusion, challenging the status quo

Embracing the 2024 International Women’s Day theme, “Inspire Inclusion,” our spotlight shifts to ten exceptional Nigerian women who are carving out spaces for empowerment and unity. 

These trailblazers, each with their unique stories, exemplify the spirit of inclusion, breaking down stereotypes and fostering a collective journey toward a more diverse and equitable society. 

Join us as we celebrate International Women’s Day, acknowledging these inspiring Nigerian women who, through their resilience and vision, are making a profound impact, shattering barriers, and shaping an inclusive future for all.

Folake Soetan: Soetan is the accomplished CEO of Ikeja Electric, recognized for her strategic leadership and notable achievements in the energy sector. She has held senior leadership positions in the Aviation, Oil & Gas and Power sectors over the last two decades.

She was also in charge of the team that delivered the Bilateral Power initiative, which for the first time in Nigeria, paved the way for the provision of a minimum of 20 hours of power supplied through the National Grid to customers. Under her guidance, Ikeja Electric has seen significant advancements, showcasing her prowess in navigating the complexities of the industry. 

Chimamanda Adichie: Adichie is a renowned Nigerian author. She is celebrated for her impactful storytelling and insightful narratives. With works like “Half of a Yellow Sun” and “Americanah,” she skillfully explores themes of identity, feminism, and cultural dynamics. 

Her TED Talk on “We Should All Be Feminists” has resonated globally, solidifying her profile as a thought leader advocating for gender equality. Adichie’s ability to weave compelling tales with social commentary has earned her international acclaim and numerous literary awards.

Seyi Oluyole:  She is the founder of Dream Catcher Academy in Lagos. She is a dedicated educator, who is making a positive impact. Through her academy, she empowers children through dance, providing a unique approach to education. Oluyole’s commitment to using creative methods, like dance, showcases her innovative and engaging approach to teaching, making a significant contribution to the educational landscape in Lagos.

Nike Davies-Okundaye: Davies-Okundaye is a distinguished Nigerian artist and textile designer, renowned for her significant contributions to the art world. 

As the founder and managing director of Nike Art Gallery, she has played a pivotal role in promoting African art and culture. Davies-Okundaye is celebrated for her mastery of traditional Nigerian textile techniques and her commitment to preserving and showcasing the rich heritage of African art.

Her achievements include establishing the Nike Art Gallery as one of the largest art galleries in Nigeria, providing a platform for emerging artists and preserving traditional art forms. Nike Davies-Okundaye’s work has been exhibited globally, earning her recognition as a cultural ambassador. Her dedication to empowering artists and fostering cultural exchange has made her a respected figure in both the local and international art communities.

Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala: She is a prominent Nigerian economist and international figure known for her remarkable achievements. She has held several key positions, showcasing her leadership on a global scale. Notably, she served as the Finance Minister of Nigeria and later as the Coordinating Minister for the Economy.

She has served as the Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO) since March 2021. In this role, Okonjo-Iweala made history as the first woman and the first African to lead the WTO. Her extensive experience in economics, finance, and international development has contributed to her effectiveness in addressing global trade challenges and fostering collaboration among member countries.

Okonjo-Iweala’s achievements extend beyond her governmental roles, encompassing her influential contributions to international organizations and her dedication to economic development and poverty alleviation. Her impact resonates across the global stage, making her a respected and trailblazing figure in the field of economics and diplomacy.

Uche Pedro: The visionary founder of BellaNaija, Uche Pedro has made substantial contributions to the digital media landscape in Nigeria. 

With BellaNaija, she created a platform that has become a leading voice in entertainment, lifestyle, and news in Nigeria and the African diaspora. Uche’s entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to quality content have garnered widespread recognition, making BellaNaija a go-to source for diverse and engaging stories. 

Her achievements highlight the impact of her work in shaping the online media narrative and fostering a sense of community in the digital space. 

Adenike Oyetunde: Oyetunde is a remarkable Nigerian media personality, lawyer, and advocate known for her impactful work. Her journey has been marked by resilience and dedication, having overcome physical challenges. 

Adenike is celebrated for using her platform to inspire and uplift others through storytelling and advocacy. Her contributions to media, coupled with her commitment to social causes, make her a respected figure known for making a positive impact on individuals and society.

Tobi Amusan (OON):  Amusan became the first ever Nigerian world champion and world record holder in an athletics event when she won the 2022 World Championships 100 m hurdles gold medal, setting the current world record of 12.12 seconds (+0.9m/s) in the semi-final, followed up by a 12.06 seconds (+2.5m/s) in the final. 

Amusan’s dedication to her sport and her notable successes have established her as a prominent figure in global athletics.

Yasmin Belo-Osagie: Belo-Osagie is recognized as the co-founder of She Leads Africa, a platform dedicated to empowering and supporting young African women in their professional and entrepreneurial endeavours. She has played a pivotal role in creating opportunities for women to thrive in various industries through mentorship, training, and access to resources.

Her efforts contribute to bridging gender gaps and empowering a new generation of female leaders. Yasmin Belo-Osagie’s work exemplifies her dedication to promoting inclusivity and unlocking the potential of women in the professional sphere.

Damilola Odufuwa: Odufuwa is recognized as the co-founder of Feminist Coalition, a Nigerian organization committed to advancing gender equality and advocating for women’s rights.

The Feminist Coalition gained prominence for its active role in social justice movements, particularly during protests for police reform in Nigeria.

Odufuwa, along with other co-founders, utilized the Feminist Coalition to amplify voices, raise awareness, and provide support for various causes related to women’s rights and social justice. Their strategic use of social media and crowdfunding highlighted the organization’s effectiveness in mobilizing resources for positive change.

Damilola Odufuwa’s role in co-founding the Feminist Coalition showcases her dedication to promoting gender equality and using collective action to address social issues in Nigeria.

Amina Mohammed: Mohammed, a Nigerian diplomat and politician,serves as the fifth Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations.

She was a former Nigerian Minister of Environment between 2015 to 2016 and was a player in the Post-2015 Development Agenda process. She is also the Chair of the United Nations Sustainable Development Group.