IWD 2026: Natasha Akpoti, Hilda Baci, Halima Dangote Among Pinnacle Daily’s Women of Excellence

This year’s edition is both a celebration and a call to action, to elevate women’s roles as architects of sustainable economies, champions of justice, and innovators of resilient communities.

In Nigeria, a nation rich in talent and diversity, women continue to break ceilings and redefine leadership. In this year’s International Women’s Day, Pinnacle Daily spotlights 50 remarkable Nigerian women whose journeys exemplify the spirit of service, achievement, and progress that the event embodies.

1. Oluremi Tinubu — Senator & First Lady with a Mission

Former three-term Senator and current First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, prioritises women’s economic advancement, education, and healthcare through her Renewed Hope Initiative, amplifying opportunities for women and girls nationwide.

2. Kudirat Kekere-Ekun — CJN 

Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun is the second female Chief Justice of Nigeria (CJN), sworn in on August 23, 2024.  Justice Kekere-Ekun has helped to shape the country’s jurisprudence and reinforce the rule of law through her constitutional interpretation in various cases handled in her decades of service in Nigeria’s judiciary.

3. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala — Global Economist & WTO Director-General

Dr. Okonjo-Iweala has shaped economic policy on the world stage. As the first African and first woman to lead the World Trade Organisation (WTO), she stewards global trade reforms while championing equity for developing economies. At home, her leadership as Nigeria’s Finance Minister delivered historic debt relief and fiscal reforms.

4. Dr. Oby Ezekwesili — Advocate & Governance Reformer

A former Minister of Education and co-founder of the #BringBackOurGirls movement, Dr. Ezekwesili’s work spans anti-corruption, education reform, and civic empowerment. Her global voice remains central to calls for transparency and accountability.

READ ALSO:

• Women Affairs Ministry, NPC Join Forces to Boost Birth Registration, Improved Population Data Access
• Women Affairs Ministry Hails Oluremi Tinubu as Leadership Person of the Year 2026
• CREDICORP Empowers First 1,000 Women With Vehicle Credit
• Civil Society Demands Women’s Inclusion Ahead of 2027 Elections

5. Amina Mohammed — Diplomat & UN Deputy Secretary-General

Before her current role at the United Nations, Amina Mohammed drove sustainable development and environmental policy as Nigeria’s Environment Minister. Her influence is felt in global frameworks like the SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals).

6. Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan –

Natasha Akpoti Uduaghan, a Nigerian senator representing Kogi Central Senatorial District, is known for her firm stand on mainstreaming gender justice and social welfare. In the area of governance, she has been advocating the revival of the Ajaokuta Steel Company to boost job creation and industrial growth. In the Nigerian Senate, she promotes youth empowerment, infrastructure development, and greater participation of women in politics.

7. Emem Usoro – Deputy Governor, Corporate Services Directorate, CBN

Emem Nnana Usoro, with over 20 years in banking, became Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria on October 5, 2023. She previously served as Executive Director at UBA, overseeing Northern Nigeria operations, and held senior roles at Bank PHB (now Keystone Bank).

She holds a B.Sc. in Biochemistry, an MBA, is a Fellow of CIBN, and an alumna of Harvard and Lagos Business Schools.

8. Folorunsho Alakija — Business Magnate & Philanthropist

From fashion to oil, Folorunsho Alakija built Famfa Oil into one of Africa’s most successful companies. Through her philanthropy, she supports education and empowerment programmes for vulnerable women.

9. Ibukun Awosika — Corporate Leader & Mentor

Chairperson of First Bank Nigeria and serial entrepreneur, Awosika champions ethical leadership, mentorship for women entrepreneurs, and greater female representation in senior management.

10. Tara Fela-Durotoye — Beauty Industry Pioneer

Founder of House of Tara International, she transformed Nigeria’s beauty sector and empowered thousands of women through vocational training and entrepreneurship.

11. Nike Ogunlesi — Indigenous Fashion Entrepreneur

Founder of Ruff ‘n’ Tumble, Ogunlesi built a leading children’s fashion brand rooted in Nigerian creativity and production, promoting local industry and employment.

12. Nike Monica Okundaye – Cultural Icon & Art Entrepreneur

Nike Monica Okundaye, widely known as Mama Nike, is a celebrated Nigerian textile artist and founder of the Nike Art Foundation and Gallery. She preserves Yoruba adire traditions while empowering thousands of young artists, especially women. Her work has been exhibited internationally, earning her recognition as a leader in art, culture, and women’s empowerment.

13. Halima Aliko Dangote – Executive Director, Dangote Group

She contributes to the growth of one of Africa’s largest conglomerates, supporting industrial development, job creation, and economic growth in Nigeria, while also advancing health and education initiatives through the Aliko Dangote Foundation.

14. Olu Verheijen – Special Adviser on Energy to Bola Ahmed Tinubu

15. Opeyemi Alaka Hamidat – Research Scientist and L’Oréal‑UNESCO For Women in Science Awardee

She was named a 2025 L’Oréal‑UNESCO For Women in Science Young Talents awardee for her groundbreaking research on Nigerian medicinal plants and Alzheimer’s disease, aiming to bridge traditional knowledge with scientific drug discovery and boost Nigeria’s contribution to health science.

16.  Aisha Yesufu — Civic Advocate & Activist

A tireless campaigner for rights and democratic reform, Yesufu’s bold voice challenges barriers and amplifies women’s roles in governance and society.

Education & Literary Voices

17. Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie — Writer & Feminist Thought Leader

From Half of a Yellow Sun to global TED stages, Adichie shapes conversations on identity, feminism, and Africa’s place in world literature.

18. Omobola Johnson – Technology Investor and Former ICT Minister

Omobola Johnson has been supporting Africa’s tech and startup ecosystem as a Senior Partner at TLcom Capital, where she invests in and mentors technology startups across Nigeria and Africa. She also serves on the boards of companies like MTN Nigeria and Guinness Nigeria, helping drive digital innovation, corporate governance, and growth in Nigeria’s technology and business sectors.

Media & Culture Shapers

19. Mo Abudu — Media Mogul & Film Producer

Founder of EbonyLife Media, Abudu pushed African storytelling into global cinemas and streaming platforms, spotlighting African narratives.

20. Tems (Temilade Openiyi) – Nigerian Singer and Songwriter

Temilade Openiyi has boosted Nigeria’s global music influence with her works, winning a Grammy Award and collaborating with international artists like Beyoncé and Drake, helping take Afrobeats to a wider global audience.

21. Funke Akindele — Nollywood Powerhouse & Producer

Akindele’s films have shattered box-office records, and her storytelling brings joy and reflection to millions.

22. Omoni Oboli – Nigerian Actress and Filmmaker

Omoni Oboli is expanding Nollywood through film production and growing digital audiences with her YouTube platform Omoni Oboli TV, bringing Nigerian movies to millions of viewers online.

Sporting Excellence

23. Asisat Oshoala — Football Superstar

A multiple-time African Women’s Footballer of the Year, Oshoala’s success abroad inspires young athletes and elevates women’s football in Nigeria.

24. Tobi Amusan — World Champion Hurdler

As a world record holder and global sprint hurdler, Amusan’s feats bring pride to Nigeria and challenge glass ceilings in global athletics.

25. Rena Wakama – Nigerian Basketball Coach

Rena has made history as head coach of Nigeria women’s national basketball team, D’Tigress, leading them to multiple FIBA Women’s AfroBasket titles and guiding the team to the quarter-finals of the 2024 Paris Olympics, the first time any African basketball team (men’s or women’s) reached that stage, earning her FIBA’s Best Coach award. She has also joined the Chicago Sky (WNBA) as an assistant coach and was appointed head coach of Hive BC in the U.S., expanding her influence in global basketball.

26. Captain Dr. Atinuke Stanley-Pepple (née Dawodu)

Stanley-Pepple, known as CaptainTk, is a distinguished Nigerian commercial airline pilot who flies Boeing 737 aircraft for Air Peace. She is widely recognized in the aviation industry as a passionate advocate for women in aviation and youth empowerment.

27. Blessing Liman — Military Aviation Groundbreaker

The first female fighter pilot in the Nigerian Air Force, Liman’s journey is a testament to courage and barrier-breaking achievement.

Tech & Innovation Leaders

28. Ire Aderinokun — Software Engineer & Entrepreneur

Co-founder of BuyCoins and champion of digital innovation, Aderinokun nurtures Nigeria’s tech ecosystem and pushes for inclusion in technology fields.

 

29. Odunayo Eweniyi — Fintech Visionary & Advocate

Co-founder of PiggyVest, Odunayo Ewwniyi empowers millions to save and invest while advocating for increased access to tech education for women nationwide.

Young Entrepreneurs & Startup Leaders

30. Yasmin Belo-Osagie – Co-founder, She Leads Africa

Empowers thousands of African women by providing entrepreneurship training, mentorship programmes, funding opportunities, and networking platforms, helping women start businesses, scale startups, and achieve financial independence.

31. Sandra Chukwudozie – Founder/CEO, Salpha Energy

Sandra Chukwudozie expands clean energy access in Nigeria through solar home systems and appliances, providing affordable electricity to off-grid households and small businesses, reducing reliance on petrol generators.

32. Oluwatosin Olaseinde – Founder, Money Africa

Olaseinde Promotes financial literacy and investment education for young Nigerians, teaching savings, investing, and wealth creation to help reduce financial illiteracy and support smarter economic decisions.

33. Temitope Omotolani – Co-founder, CrowdyVest

Provides Nigerians with access to investment opportunities traditionally reserved for wealthy investors, in sectors like agriculture, real estate, and renewable energy, fostering economic inclusion and alternative wealth creation.

 

34. Chinwe Gloria Oyouwa – Founder, Crown and Calm

Raises awareness about neurodiversity and sensory-friendly living in Nigeria, designing products for individuals with autism and sensory processing challenges while advocating inclusive environments and mental wellness.

 

35.  Damilola Olokesusi – Co-founder & CEO, Shuttlers

With her Shuttlers, Damilola addresses urban transport challenges, offering tech-enabled bus services that improve commuting efficiency, reduce stress, and enhance mobility, safety, and productivity in Nigerian cities.

 

36.  Angela Essien – Co-founder, Schoolable

Through her School able, Essien expands education financing access, enabling parents to pay school fees in installments, helping families keep children in school despite economic challenges.

Corporate & Business Leaders

37. Miriam Olusanya – CEO, Guaranty Trust Bank

Olusanya leads one of Nigeria’s most influential banks, promoting digital banking, financial inclusion, and SME financing, supporting businesses and broadening access to banking services nationwide.

38.  Adaora Umeoji – Group CEO, Zenith Bank

Umeoji, the first female Group Managing Director of Zenith Bank, champions corporate finance, trade, economic growth, and promotes women’s leadership in banking.

 

39. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe – CEO, Fidelity Bank

Onyealikpe strengthens SME financing and entrepreneurship support, focusing on small businesses, women entrepreneurs, and export-driven companies to boost economic diversification.

 

40. Yemisi Edun – CEO, First City Monument Bank

Yemisi Edun promotes digital banking and inclusive financial services, expanding lending to SMEs and supporting youth entrepreneurship and small business growth.

41. Funke Opeke – Founder & CEO, MainOne

Transformed Nigeria’s internet infrastructure with the MainOne submarine cable, improving broadband connectivity, reducing costs, and supporting tech startups and digital innovation.

 

Social Impact Leaders

42. Biola Alabi – Media entrepreneur & investor

Influences Nigeria’s creative and media industries, supporting film, television, and digital media ventures, creating opportunities for young creatives and content innovators.

 

43. Abisoye Ajayi-Akinfolarin – Founder, Pearls Africa Youth Foundation

Akinfolarin empowers girls with tech education, coding, and digital skills, bridging the gender gap in technology and preparing young women for future digital careers.

44. Fatima Umaru Shinkafi – Executive Secretary, Solid Minerals Development Fund

She is boosting Nigeria’s mining sector by attracting investment, funding projects, and supporting exploration and processing across the country.

 

45. Zouera Youssoufou – CEO, Aliko Dangote Foundation

She leads Africa’s largest private foundation, driving health, education, nutrition, and economic empowerment programmes in Nigeria and across Africa. She also helps shape foundational learning and philanthropic coalitions and sits on boards that expand women’s economic opportunities and social investments.

46. Akpevwe Ogboru – Assistant Comptroller, Nigeria Customs Service

Akpevwe Ogboru made history in 2025 by completing a 72‑day solo motorcycle journey from Nigeria to Belgium and back, travelling through 22 countries to promote women’s empowerment, inclusivity, and the girl‑child. Ogboru’s feat the first of its kind by a female Nigeria Customs officer has inspired many and put Nigeria on the global map for courage and determination.

 

47. Hilda Baci – Nigerian Chef and Restaurateur

Hilda Baci recently set a new Guinness World Record by cooking the largest serving of jollof rice ever (about 8,780 kg) at the World Jollof Festival in Lagos, showcasing Nigeria’s culinary culture on the world stage. Previously, she also broke the record for the longest individual cooking marathon, bringing global attention to Nigerian food and inspiring many young chefs.

48. Rita Idehai – Founder & CEO, Ecobarter

She is tackling Nigeria’s waste and climate challenges by turning trash into value using technology and community programs to incentivise recycling, build circular economy solutions, and empower marginalised groups with income‑earning opportunities through sustainable waste management.

49. Jumoke Oduwole – Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment

She leads efforts to revitalise Nigeria’s trade, industry and investment climate, improving the business environment with major reforms, boosting investor confidence, and positioning Nigeria as a regional marketplace with growing intra‑African trade and economic activity.

 

50. Omolola Oloworaran – Director‑General, National Pension Commission

She is transforming Nigeria’s pension system by improving pension payments and industry reforms — increasing monthly pension payouts, clearing pension arrears, recovering billions from defaulting employers, and expanding access to non‑interest pension options. Her leadership also launched Pension Revolution 2.0 and healthcare support for retirees, boosting confidence and efficiency in the pension sector.

Celebrating Nigerian Women in 2026

In a nation where women remain central to social cohesion, economic growth, and cultural identity, the stories of these 50 Nigerian women remind us that empowerment is both a right and a responsibility. On this International Women’s Day 2026, as the global community rallies around the “Give To Gain” theme, affirming that empowerment and opportunity create shared prosperity, Nigeria’s women stand tall as innovators, leaders, and changemakers.

As we commemorate these extraordinary achievements, the path ahead calls for sustained investment in women’s education, health, safety, and economic inclusion. For when women gain, society gains, stronger, fairer, and more prosperous.