In 2024, Nigeria made significant advancements towards gender equality in governance, with women excelling in multiple sectors.
These pioneering women are not only instrumental in policymaking but also bolstering the campaign for the 35% affirmative action advocated by the Nigerian Women Trust Fund (NWTF).
Photos: @funkeakindele, @NOIweala, @SenRemiTinubu
Source: Twitter
Supported by various advocacy organizations, the NWTF has intensified its efforts to address the ongoing underrepresentation of women in governance, where they currently hold less than 15% of pivotal political positions—far below the targeted 35%. This stark inequality remains a core focus of advocacy initiatives.
The judiciary plays a crucial role in this dialogue. A landmark ruling by the Federal High Court in 2022 validated the 35% affirmative action for women in public appointments, invigorating ongoing campaigns for its implementation. However, the federal government’s sluggish response has prompted civil society groups to sustain pressure through policy discussions and public outreach.
Despite the challenges, countless women have demonstrated the transformative potential of inclusive governance, exhibiting resilience, leadership, and innovation in their respective fields.
1. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala
As the Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO), Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala is a prominent advocate for equitable trade policies addressing Africa’s economic challenges. Her influential contributions to global health and climate resilience have garnered widespread acclaim, leading to her re-election for a second term.
“I am deeply honored by the trust and support of the WTO General Council and its 166 Members. It is a privilege to continue serving as Director-General for a second four-year term,” she stated.
She holds board positions in several prestigious organizations, including Danone, Standard Chartered Bank, Twitter, and the Rockefeller Foundation.
2. First Lady Oluremi Tinubu
First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu’s political journey signifies the empowerment of women in governance and acts as a catalyst for advocating the 35% affirmative action in Nigeria.
Having served three terms as a senator for Lagos Central, she has continuously fought for gender equality, social welfare, and education. Her legislative work includes sponsoring bills focused on women’s empowerment and poverty alleviation, underscoring her commitment to inclusivity.
In her role as First Lady, Mrs. Tinubu has amplified her influence, spotlighting the imperative for increased female representation in decision-making roles. Her active participation in women-led initiatives resonates with the global push for gender parity in politics and supports the 35% affirmative action policy.
By breaking barriers and motivating women to pursue leadership, Oluremi Tinubu exemplifies the positive effects of inclusive governance and the urgent need for fair representation in Nigeria’s political arena.
3. Prof. Nnenna Oti
As the INEC Returning Officer for Abia state’s governorship election, Prof. Nnenna Oti demonstrated unwavering integrity by ensuring that all votes were accounted for despite facing intimidation.
“The pastor and the mother in me will not permit me to do anything that will adversely affect the future of our children,” she asserted during a time of uncertainty in Abia State.
Her resolute stance for truth has made her a hero in the South East, legitimizing democratic processes amidst corruption, violence, and gender intimidation. As a distinguished soil scientist and Fellow of the Soil Science Society of Nigeria, she has become a beacon for democracy and female empowerment.
4. Victoria Abiola Ajayi
Victoria Abiola Ajayi, the Group CEO/MD of TVC Communications, is a chartered accountant, author, and advocate for women in leadership. She founded the Women Inclusive Boardroom Africa (WIBA), a social enterprise aimed at promoting gender equality and preparing women for executive roles.
WIBA focuses on equipping mid to senior-level women with the skills necessary for leadership positions, thus creating a pipeline of qualified women ready to assume governance responsibilities.
5. Funke Akindele
Funke Akindele’s 2023 political journey as the deputy governorship candidate for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Lagos was a watershed moment, reigniting critical conversations about women’s representation in governance.
Although her party did not clinch victory, Akindele’s courageous foray into the male-dominated political landscape demonstrated the significance of representation. Her campaign highlighted the pressing need for more female leaders, in line with the push for 35% affirmative action.
Widely recognized as Nigeria’s most successful female filmmaker, Akindele continues to shatter records within the entertainment sector, with her 2023 film, A Tribe Called Judah, grossing N1 billion, establishing her as the highest-grossing director in Nigerian box office history.
6. Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim
As Nigeria’s first female minister of state for police affairs, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim has encouraged women to recognize their value within society. Her commitment led to her subsequent appointment as minister of women affairs.
Bringing over twenty years of experience, she has made substantial contributions to policy formulation and investment strategies in Nasarawa state, enhancing healthcare, education, and revenue outcomes.
7. Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe
Nneka Onyeali-Ikpe stands as a significant force in Nigeria’s banking sector, serving as the Group Managing Director and CEO of Fidelity Bank Plc. Her recent acquisition of 10 million shares, valued at N157.9 million, further cements her influence within the financial industry.
8. Dupe Olusola
Dupe Olusola, the Managing Director and CEO of Transcorp Hotels Plc., has been pivotal in guiding the company’s strategic vision. With a rich history spanning various sectors, she has previously held leadership roles at UBA and Teragro Commodities, facilitating a landmark partnership with Coca-Cola.
9. Adaeze Oreh
Commissioner for Health in Rivers State, Adaeze Oreh is a Consultant Family Physician and health policy expert. She oversees a complex network of healthcare facilities serving over nine million people and is staunchly committed to enhancing healthcare systems, advocating for accessible and affordable services.
10. Fatima Waziri-Azi
Professor Fatima Waziri-Azi, the director-general of NAPTIP, is a noted academic and human rights activist. Her career, which encompasses law, governance, and advocacy, has seen her serve as a Senior Special Assistant to the President on the Rule of Law while also contributing to anti-corruption measures.
11. Temilade Openiyi (Tems)
Singer Temilade Openiyi, known as Tems, has gained international recognition, with her single Love Me JeJe being named one of Rolling Stone’s top songs of the year. She made history as the first African artist to win the Billboard Music Award for Best Global Act, showcasing the growing prominence of African music globally.
12. Tobi Amusan
Nigerian hurdler Tobi Amusan shone brightly in 2024, solidifying her position as a leading athlete worldwide. During the Paris 2024 Olympics, she secured her place in the women’s 100m hurdles semifinals, recording a remarkable 12.48 seconds.
Amusan’s determination and preparation were evident as she aimed for a podium finish. Earlier in the year, she defended her world champion title in the 100m hurdles at the World Athletics Championships in Budapest, achieving a time of 12.33 seconds, further emphasizing her dominance in the sport.
These twelve iconic female leaders in Nigeria in 2024 exemplify the transformative power of women across various domains. Their ability to inspire change, advocate for equity, and shatter barriers reflects a broader movement towards inclusive leadership in the nation.
These trailblazers have made lasting impacts in their respective fields, serving as symbols of resilience and innovation for future generations. Their unwavering commitment challenges stereotypes and affirms that women can thrive in traditionally male-dominated spaces, altering societal narratives.
As Nigeria continues to progress, the extraordinary contributions of these women underscore the country’s untapped potential, echoing calls for increased investment in women’s empowerment and support for aspiring leaders.
Why More Women in Governance is Crucial for Nigeria
There is a pressing need for deliberate efforts to empower women politically, as highlighted by Barr. Juliet Isi Ikhayere, a House of Reps candidate. She points out societal and cultural barriers as significant obstacles to women’s political representation.
Former Kaduna senator Shehu Sani has emphasized that the Nigerian government has yet to implement the law that reserves 35% of public offices for women, indicating a need for continued advocacy and reform.
