Introduction

1. Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti

Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti

Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti was a women’s rights activist and political leader who fought tirelessly for the rights of women in Nigeria. She was the first woman to drive a car in Nigeria and founded the Abeokuta Women’s Union, which played a crucial role in the fight against colonialism. Funmilayo was also the mother of Fela Kuti, the famous Afrobeat musician. Her activism inspired generations of Nigerians to stand up for their rights.

2. Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie is a renowned Nigerian author whose works have gained international recognition. Her novel “Half of a Yellow Sun” won the Orange Prize for Fiction, and her TED Talk on feminism, “We should all be feminists,” has been viewed millions of times. Adichie’s writing explores themes of identity, race, and gender.

3. Dora Akunyili

Dora Akunyili

Dora Akunyili was a pharmacist and government official who served as the Director-General of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC). She led a successful campaign against counterfeit drugs in Nigeria, earning her international recognition and accolades for her work. She was also a minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

4. Flora Nwapa

Flora Nwapa

Flora Nwapa was a pioneer of African women’s literature and the first Nigerian woman to publish a novel. Her book “Efuru” is considered a classic of African literature and explores the life of a Nigerian woman in a traditional society. Nwapa’s writing broke barriers and challenged societal norms.

5. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala

Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala

Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala is an economist and international development expert who served as the Minister of Finance in Nigeria. She also held various positions at the World Bank, including Managing Director. Okonjo-Iweala has been a vocal advocate for anti-corruption efforts and economic reform in Nigeria. She is currently the Director-General of World Trade Organization (WTO).

6. Hajiya Gambo Sawaba

Hajiya Gambo Sawaba

Hajiya Gambo Sawaba was a prominent women’s rights activist and politician who fought for gender equality and social justice in Nigeria. She was a founding member of the Northern Elements Progressive Union (NEPU) and played a key role in the struggle for Nigerian independence.

7. Buchi Emecheta

Buchi Emecheta

Buchi Emecheta was a prolific Nigerian author who wrote about the experiences of African women in a rapidly changing society. Her work has made a significant impact on African literature and feminist scholarship. Her novels, such as “The Joys of Motherhood” and “Second-Class Citizen,” are widely regarded as important contributions to African literature and feminist discourse.

8. Grace Alele-Williams

Grace Alele-Williams

Grace Alele-Williams was the first female Vice-Chancellor of a Nigerian university, the University of Benin. She was a trailblazer in the field of education and a strong advocate for the rights of women to access higher education. Alele-Williams’s leadership paved the way for more women to pursue academic careers.

9. Onyeka Onwenu

Onyeka Onwenu

Onyeka Onwenu is a multi-talented Nigerian singer, actress, and human rights activist. She is known for her powerful vocals and socially conscious lyrics that address issues such as gender equality and political corruption. Onwenu’s music has transcended generations and continues to inspire audiences worldwide.

10. Stella Adadevoh

Stella Adadevoh

Stella Adadevoh was a Nigerian physician who played a crucial role in containing the spread of the Ebola virus in Nigeria in 2014. Despite immense pressure, she made the difficult decision to isolate the index case, preventing a potential epidemic. Adadevoh’s actions saved countless lives and earned her widespread praise. She died trying to rescue Nigerians from the deadly disease.

Also read: Best Presidents Nigeria Never Had

11. Amina J. Mohammed

Amina J. Mohammed

Amina J. Mohammed is a Nigerian diplomat and politician who currently serves as the Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations. She has been a strong advocate for sustainable development and women’s empowerment, playing a key role in shaping the UN’s 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

12. Florence Ita-Giwa

Florence Ita-Giwa

Florence Ita-Giwa is a prominent Nigerian politician and women’s rights activist who has championed the cause of marginalized groups in society. She has served as a Senator and Special Adviser to the President on National Assembly Matters. Ita-Giwa’s advocacy work has had a lasting impact on Nigerian politics.

13. Agbani Darego

Agbani Darego

Agbani Darego is a name synonymous with grace, beauty, and pioneering spirit in the world of fashion. As the first African woman to win the prestigious Miss World pageant in 2001, she catapulted to international fame and set a new standard for diversity and representation in the industry.

From humble beginnings in Nigeria, Agbani Darego’s rise to stardom is nothing short of remarkable. Born in Abonnema, Rivers State, Nigeria, she defied the odds and challenged traditional beauty standards to become a trailblazer in the fashion industry. At the young age of 18, Agbani made history by winning the Miss Nigeria beauty pageant, paving the way for her groundbreaking victory at Miss World the following year. Agbani Darego’s influence extends far beyond the realm of beauty pageants. As a successful model, she has graced countless runways and magazine covers, earning acclaim for her striking looks and undeniable talent.

14. Mary Onyali-Omagbemi

Mary Onyali-Omagbemi

Mary Onyali-Omagbemi is a former Nigerian sprinter who represented her country in five Olympic Games. She won multiple medals in international competitions and remains one of Nigeria’s most decorated athletes. Onyali-Omagbemi has been a role model for aspiring athletes and a vocal advocate for sports development in Nigeria.

15. Folorunsho Alakija

Folorunso Alakija

Known as businesswoman, philanthropist, Folorunsho Alakija is one of the wealthiest women in Africa and a successful businesswoman. She has used her wealth to support various charitable causes and empower women through entrepreneurship.

16. Abiodun Duro Ladipo

Abiodun Duro Ladipo

Known as actress, playwright, cultural icon, Abiodun Duro Ladipo was a renowned actress and playwright who revolutionized Yoruba theater with her innovative storytelling and powerful performances. She is considered a cultural icon in Nigerian theater history.

17. Moremi Ajasoro

Moremi Ajasoro

Known as legendary figure, symbol of bravery, Moremi Ajasoro is a legendary Yoruba queen who is celebrated for her bravery and sacrifice in saving her people from oppression. Her story continues to inspire generations of Nigerians.

18. Hajiya Laila Dongoyaro

Hajiya Laila Dongoyaro

Known as women’s rights activist, politician, Hajiya Laila Dongoyaro was a dedicated advocate for women’s rights and social welfare in Nigeria. She fought for gender equality, education, and healthcare access for women and children.

19. Mariam Babangida

Mariam Babangida

A a former First Lady of Nigeria, women’s rights activist, Mariam Babangida was the wife of a Nigerian military leader and a prominent advocate for women’s empowerment and social welfare. She founded the Better Life Program for Rural Women, which aimed to improve the lives of women in rural areas.

20. Betty Irabor

Betty Irabor

Betty Irabor is a Nigerian media personality, author, and mental health advocate who is known for her influential work in the field of journalism and publishing. She is the founder and editor-in-chief of Genevieve magazine, a popular lifestyle publication that focuses on empowering women and promoting positive narratives. Betty Irabor’s fearless approach to addressing mental health issues and advocating for self-care and well-being has made her a trailblazer in the media industry.

Conclusion

The 20 most influential Nigerian women of all time mentioned in this article have made significant contributions to various sectors and have left a lasting impact on society. Their qualities of courage, leadership, dedication, and innovation have set them apart and have inspired generations of Nigerian women to strive for excellence. These women have blazed a trail for others to follow and their legacy will continue to inspire future generation.

Do you think there are others that there are others worth celebrating that are not included in this article, kindly share your though in the comment box below. Thanks..