By Elizabeth Uwaifo
Anniversaries are moments to pause, reflect, and celebrate the passage of time. For me, Nigeria Magazine at 15 is more than an editorial milestone — it is a testament to resilience, vision, and the power of shared narratives.
I still recall my earliest interaction with Esosa Aihie at the embryonic stages of the Nigeria Magazine. At a conference at Oxford University in September 2010, Esosa and I reminisced about Nigeria, shared examples of Nigerians doing amazing things and relished our hopes for Nigeria. Esosa Aihie and Kede Aihie went on to birth Nigeria Magazine.
What began as a platform to highlight the stories of Nigerians across the world has, over the years, become a family of thinkers, achievers, and bridge-builders. Nigeria Magazine has evolved from print to digital, from local to global and from solely a publication of Nigerian stories to an interactive community of Nigerian patriots.
Beyond its pages, Nigeria Magazine has cultivated a vibrant and interactive WhatsApp community under the leadership of Kede and Esosa. This dynamic space brings readers, contributors, and supporters together in real time, fostering lively discussions, sharing insights, celebrating achievements, and strengthening the sense of belonging among Nigerians both at home and in the diaspora. The group exemplifies the magazine’s commitment to engagement, connectivity, and community building, turning readers into active participants and collaborators in the magazine’s ongoing story.
As a recipient of a Nigeria Magazine award and proud member of the Nigeria Magazine community, I have seen firsthand how the magazine elevates voices, celebrates excellence, and fosters meaningful dialogue on Nigeria’s progress. I applaud Nigeria Magazine for staying relevant and fresh across 15 years.
Credit for this amazing evolution of Nigeria Magazine goes to the Co-Founders – the visionary and committed champions of Nigeria – Kede Aihie and Esosa Aihie.
Kede Aihie – Under the leadership of Kede Aihie, Nigeria Magazine has distinguished itself as more than a publication – it has become a platform for empowerment, community, and positive change. For 15 years, Aihie has championed narratives that celebrate Nigeria’s resilience and potential, countering stereotypes with stories of achievement and progress. Through thought-provoking editorials, inspiring books such as Rising Above Challenges, and landmark events including the International Women’s Day Awards and the “Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress” initiative, he has bridged the gap between Nigeria and its diaspora, fostered dialogue, and created spaces that honour integrity, inclusivity, and leadership. His vision has turned Nigeria Magazine into a beacon that uplifts, connects, and inspires – a legacy of impact that continues to grow.
Esosa Aihie – As CoFounder and Editor of Nigeria Magazine, Esosa Aihie, brings a dynamic editorial vision that shapes both the content and impact of the publication. She has championed women-centred initiatives, including the acclaimed “The Nigeria Magazine Awards” for leading women creating platforms that celebrate achievement, inspire leadership, and foster community across Nigeria and its diaspora. Through her strategic curation of stories, events, and networking opportunities, Esosa ensures the magazine not only informs and entertains but also empowers and connects readers, reflecting her commitment to authenticity, inclusivity, and lasting social impact.
Nigeria Magazine has grown to be more than a publication – it is a mirror reflecting our aspirations as a people. Through its pages, we have witnessed accounts of triumph and resilience, from culture to commerce, from governance to grassroots. For me personally, the recognition I received was not only an honour, but also a reminder of the responsibility we all share: to contribute to the growth and positive image of Nigeria wherever we are.
At 15, Nigeria Magazine stands tall as a chronicle of the past and a torch for the future. As we celebrate this milestone, I extend my gratitude to the Co-Founders as well as the contributors, and fellow members of the Nigeria Magazine community whose efforts keep the flame alive. May the next 15 years be even more impactful – telling stories that inspire, challenge, and unite us in the pursuit of a greater Nigeria.
Elizabeth Uwaifo
Managing Partner
Radix Legal and Consulting
www.radixlc.com
Email – euwaifo@radixlc.com
Elizabeth Uwaifo is an English qualified solicitor and the Managing Partner of Radix legal and Consulting Ltd.. She has over 30 years’ experience advising banks, financial institutions and corporates on a wide variety of finance, corporate and commercial arrangements. She is also a member of the Advisory Board of the University of East London Centre for Fintech
Elizabeth has an outstanding reputation as a derivatives and structured finance lawyer and her clients include leading development and commercial banks. She regularly uses her expertise to support investment transactions in Africa.
Prior to her present position she was Partner at Sidley Austin LLP and Vice President at Union Bank of Switzerland.
