IWD: Trailblazing Nigerian Women You Should Know

By Ejiofor Toochi

As we celebrate International Women’s Day (IWD) 2025, it is important to recognize the Nigerian women breaking barriers and paving ways across various fields. This year’s theme, “Accelerate Action,” emphasizes the need to advance gender equality, ensuring that more women have the opportunity to lead.

The women highlighted below have paved the way for future generations through their groundbreaking achievements in various fields. Here is a list of trailblazing Nigerian women you should know:

Odunayo Eweniyi (Technology & Entrepreneurship)

In the male-dominated tech industry, Odunayo Eweniyi has carved a space for herself as a leader in financial technology. She is the co-founder and COO of PiggyVest, Nigeria’s largest digital savings and micro-investment platform. Her contributions earned her a spot on Forbes Africa’s 30 Under 30 Technology list in 2019. Beyond fintech, she co-founded the Feminist Coalition, an organization focused on women’s financial independence and leadership. Through innovation and advocacy, she is shaping a more inclusive tech and finance landscape in Nigeria.

Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie (Literature & Feminism)

Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie is one of the most influential African writers, known for works such as Half of a Yellow Sun, Americanah, and Purple Hibiscus. She has received numerous awards, including being named among TIME Magazine’s 100 Most Influential People in the World and Fortune Magazine’s World’s 50 Greatest Leaders. Adichie is not only a literary icon but also a leading feminist voice, advocating for gender equality on global platforms. Her work continues to shape conversations around identity, culture, and feminism.

Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala (Economics & Global Leadership)

Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala made history as the first woman and African leader of the World Trade Organization (WTO) in 2021. Before that, she served twice as Nigeria’s Finance Minister and briefly as Foreign Minister, becoming the first woman to hold both positions. Beyond Nigeria, her leadership extends globally. She was the first female Managing Director of Operations at the World Bank. Recognized among the Top 100 Most Powerful Women in the World, Dr. Okonjo-Iweala continues to advocate for economic empowerment and equitable global trade policies.

Ibukun Awosika (Business & Leadership)

A powerhouse in entrepreneurship and corporate leadership, Ibukun Awosika shattered barriers as the first female Chairperson of the First Bank of Nigeria in 2015. She is also the founder of The Chair Centre Group, a leading furniture manufacturing company in Nigeria. Beyond business, she is a mentor, pastor, and author, passionate about leadership and business education. She has received numerous accolades, including the Forbes Woman Africa Chairperson Award at the Africa Forbes Woman Awards in 2020. Through her initiatives, she continues to inspire and guide young entrepreneurs.

Mo Abudu (Media & Entertainment)

Mo Abudu is a media mogul and a trailblazer in African storytelling. She founded EbonyLife Media, a platform dedicated to telling African stories through films and TV series that have gained international recognition. She also launched EbonyLife Place, Nigeria’s first luxury entertainment resort, comprising restaurants, event spaces, a boutique hotel, and luxury cinemas. She has produced hit films like The Wedding Party and secured major partnership deals with Sony Pictures Television, AMC Networks, and Netflix. Recognized by Forbes as one of the most powerful women in global media, Abudu continues to redefine African storytelling.

Tara Fela-Durotoye

Tara Fela-Durotoye revolutionized Nigeria’s beauty industry by founding the House of Tara at 20. She established the country’s first makeup school, trained thousands of makeup artists, and built a cosmetics brand. Her influence extends beyond business. She was named a Young Global Leader by the World Economic Forum and listed in Forbes’ 20 Young Power African Women. A mentor and advocate for women entrepreneurs, she continues to inspire the next generation of beauty professionals.

These women have broken barriers, challenged norms, and paved the way for future generations. As we mark International Women’s Day 2025, let’s celebrate their achievements and continue advocating for gender equality.