International Women’s Day is a global celebration of women’s achievements and contributions to society. This year, we turn the spotlight on the remarkable women nominated for the 2025 Women Who Lead Awards. These women are reshaping industries, driving change, and serving as powerful role models in their communities. From business to technology, education, healthcare, and beyond, these women are leading with passion, expertise, and unwavering dedication. Here are the extraordinary nominees for the 2025 awards:
Trailblazers in Finance
Rolake Akinkugbe-Filani – Managing Director, EnergyInc Advisors, a leader in Africa’s energy, infrastructure, and financial sectors.
Arunma Oteh – Economist and senior business executive with a track record of financial leadership.
Tariye Gbadegesin – CEO of Climate Investment Funds, driving sustainable finance initiatives.
Hajia Saude Abubakar – An influential figure in finance, making strides in economic development.
Tokunboh Ishmael – Impact and ESG investor, advocating gender-conscious and inclusive investment strategies.
Leaders in Entertainment
Mary Martin – Renowned fashion and textile designer, shaping the fashion industry.
Adesuwa Onyenokwe – Nigerian TV personality, recognized for her influence in media and entertainment.
Pioneers in Business
Adese Okojie – A leading Black woman in human resources, championing workplace inclusivity.
Oluyemisi Obe – Founder & CEO of Prothrive Astute Heights Ltd, an innovative business leader.
Owen Omogiafo – President and Group Managing Director of Transcorp, driving business growth and development.
Dr. Zina Arinze – International speaker, leadership coach, lawyer, and author.
Princess Dr. Rosemary Osula Mku-Atu, JP – Founder of the Rosula Foundation, committed to philanthropy and economic empowerment.
Brenda Okorogba – Founder of Momentswithbren Consulting, transforming lives and businesses globally.
Jumoke Oduwole – Federal Minister of Industry, Trade, and Investment, spearheading economic reforms.
Hannah Awonuga – Group Head of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) and Partner at Knight Frank.
Helen Fadipe MBE – President of the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI), leading urban planning initiatives.
Zubaida Umar – Director General of the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), driving national emergency response strategies.
Titilope Olubisi Ejimagwa – Top network marketer and venture capitalist with diverse business interests.
Champions in Oil & Gas
Dr. Lami Ahmed – MD/CEO of Chrisanbeth Investments Limited and Taches Nigeria Limited, leading innovations in the oil and gas sector.
Influencers in Healthcare and Leadership
Charlene Makai – Founder & Executive Director of EmpowerHer4Africa, championing women’s healthcare.
Maria Olukoya – Founder/CEO of Ashford Black and Minority Ethnic (BME) Association, advocating mental health.
Nyasha Gwatidzo – Founder and CEO of Banya Family Placement Agency, dedicated to family healthcare.
Dr. Kikie Gardner – Digital NHS GP, enhancing healthcare accessibility.
Late Dr. Dora Akunyili OFR – Former Director-General of NAFDAC, a trailblazer in Nigeria’s healthcare industry.
Revolutionising Information Technology
Paulette Watson MBE – Founder and Managing Director of Academy Achievers, an IT innovator.
Funke Opeke – Telecoms pioneer, transforming Nigeria’s digital landscape.
Jennifer Okundaye – Deputy Director/Business Partner, Digital Data & Technology, Home Office.
Tobi Ajala – Award-winning technology entrepreneur and strategist.
Stephanie Ohumu – Chief Analytics Officer at Point Sigma; Founder of You and AI Consulting.
Education Advocates
Dr. Joan Osa Oviawe – Former Edo State Commissioner for Education, transforming Nigeria’s education sector.
Dr. Chisa Onyejekwe – Associate Director of Law at Bristol Law School, University of the West of England.
Umasoye Franca Igwe – Linguist and cultural advocate, revolutionizing language preservation and digital learning.
Pioneers in Legal Practice
Nneka Akudolu KC – Leading criminal practitioner and member of 2 Hare Court.
Abimbola Johnson – Barrister and Chair of the Independent Scrutiny and Oversight Board (ISOB), championing justice and equity.
Philanthropy and Humanitarian Efforts
Pastor Grace Adeniseun Abebi Aruwajoye – Founder of Grace Gregg Compassionate Home Orphanage.
Dr. Tolulola Olajibike Bayode – Founder of Dorian Home, dedicated to humanitarian causes.
Aviation Trailblazers
Alice Ojochide Onyema – Vice Chairman of Air Peace, driving Nigeria’s aviation growth.
Oluwatoyin Olajide – Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Air Peace, a leader in the airline industry.
Ejiro Eghagha – Executive Director, Finance & Admin, Air Peace, shaping aviation finance.
Impactful Leaders in Sports
Omorede O.E. Osifo – APC Deputy National Treasurer and former Edo State Commissioner for Youth & Sports, fostering sports development.
These women represent the best of Nigeria’s future. Their leadership and contributions are shaping the nation’s economic, social, and cultural landscape. On this International Women’s Day, we celebrate them and all women around the world who are leading, empowering, and inspiring the next generation of change-makers.
Let’s continue to support women’s progress and amplify their voices for a brighter, more equitable future.
