Welcome to this post about 15 Most Influential Women In Nigeria You Should Know, via Afrokonnect. Nigerian women are breaking barriers and setting records. When a woman masters the art of managing a home, she’s well-equipped to tackle the complexities of running a business and even a country.
Nigeria is fortunate to have a plethora of courageous women who are driving economic, political, and social growth. These women have successfully navigated male-dominated industries, leaving an indelible mark on history. Their selfless contributions have earned them widespread recognition, both nationally and internationally.
15 Most Influential Women In Nigeria in 2025
15. Uche Pedro
Uche Pedro is a force to be reckoned with. As the founder and CEO of BellaNaija, she’s been recognized as one of Forbes’ “30 Most Promising Young Entrepreneurs In Africa” in 2014. Under her leadership, her platform has become Africa’s premier lifestyle, entertainment, and fashion website, boasting over 1 million unique visitors and 9 million page views monthly.
14. Omotola Jalade Ekeinde
Omotola Jalade Ekeinde, affectionately known as “Omo Sexy,” is a multifaceted personality – actress, singer, activist, and philanthropist. With a career spanning over two decades, she’s appeared in over 300 movies, selling millions of video copies. Her influence extends beyond Nollywood, as evidenced by her inclusion in Time Magazine’s 2013 list of the 100 most influential people in the world, alongside notable figures like Michelle Obama and Beyoncé.
13. Oby Ezekwesili
Oby Ezekwesili is a powerhouse of intelligence, strength, and leadership. As a major voice in the Bring Back Our Girls campaign, she’s demonstrated unwavering commitment to justice and equality. Her impressive resume includes serving as Federal Minister of Solid Minerals and Education, as well as co-founding Transparency International. Her expertise in economic policy has earned her a reputation as a trailblazer in Africa’s development.
12. Nse Ikpe-Etim
Nigerian actress Nse Ikpe-Etim is well-known for her ability to perform a variety of characters and her versatility. She was born in Lagos State, Nigeria, on October 21, 1974, and grew up in Akwa Ibom State. Because her father worked at the Central Bank of Nigeria, she had her early education at various locations throughout Nigeria.
Studying Theatre Arts at the University of Calabar was the beginning of Nse’s acting career. In 2003, she made her Nollywood debut in the film “Venom of Justice.” But her performance in “Reloaded” was what got her nominated for the 2009 Africa Movie Academy Awards’ Best Actress in a Leading Role.
Some of her notable movies include:
- Tinsel (2008): A soap opera that marked her entry into mainstream Nollywood.
- Mr. and Mrs. (2012): A romantic comedy that solidified her status as a leading lady.
- Fifty (2015): An ensemble drama that explored themes of female friendships and ambitions.
- The Gift of a Woman (2019): A social drama that addressed domestic violence.
- King of Boys the Return of the King (2021): A political thriller where she played a conflicted wife.
Nse has received numerous awards and nominations for her performances, including the Africa Magic Viewers Choice Award for Best Actress in a Drama.
11. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala
Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala is a renowned Nigerian economist and international development expert. She made history by becoming the first woman and first African to lead the World Trade Organization as Director-General. Okonjo-Iweala has had a distinguished career in public service, serving as Nigeria’s Minister of Finance and Foreign Minister. She was also a managing director at the World Bank.
Her leadership and expertise have been recognized globally, earning her numerous awards and honors. These two women are testaments to the power of hard work, determination, and passion. They continue to inspire generations of Nigerians and Africans around the world. RECOMMENDED: Richest Igbo Men and Women in Nigeria.
10. Mosunmola Abudu
Mosunmola Abudu, popularly known as Mo Abudu, is a popular entrepreneur, media personality, and human resources management consultant. As the founder of Ebony Life Television and Inspire Africa Foundation, she has revolutionized the Nigerian media landscape. Mo’s remarkable journey began in the UK, where she studied at the University of Westminster and later earned an MBA from the University of East London. Her early career in human resources management spanned over a decade, with stints at ExxonMobil and the British Embassy.
The chat show “Moments with Mo,” which Mo started in 2006, immediately became well-known for its perceptive discussions with prominent people. Among the popular television series and films that her production firm, Ebony Life Television, has produced are “The Debaters” and “Fifty.” Because of her accomplishments, Mo has received many honours, including Forbes’ “Africa’s Most Successful Woman” title.
9. Linda Ikeji
Linda Ikeji is a renowned Nigerian blogger, entrepreneur, and former model. Her eponymous blog, launched in 2006, has become one of the most popular and influential online platforms in Africa. Born on September 19, 1980, in Lagos, Nigeria, Linda grew up in a family of seven children. She studied English Language at the University of Lagos and began her blogging career while still in school. Linda’s blog, which initially focused on gossip and entertainment news, has expanded to cover a wide range of topics, including politics, lifestyle, and fashion. Her use of technology to create a niche for herself has inspired countless young bloggers and entrepreneurs. READ MORE about Linda Ikeji Biography, Net Worth and Career.
8. Kate Henshaw
Kate Henshaw is a veteran Nigerian actress, singer, and television personality. With a career spanning over two decades, she has established herself as one of Nollywood’s leading ladies. Born on July 19, 1971, in Calabar, Nigeria, Kate began her acting career in the early 1990s. Her breakout role in the 1993 movie “When the Sun Sets” earned her critical acclaim and recognition within the industry. Kate has since appeared in numerous films and television shows, including “Stronger Than Pain” and “The Facilitator.” Her versatility and range have earned her several awards and nominations, including the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actress.
7. Kafayat Shafau-Ameh (Kaffy)
Nigerian dancer, choreographer, and fitness fanatic Kafayat Shafau-Ameh is better known by her stage name, Kaffy. She is most famous for having held the “Longest Dance Party” Guinness World Record in 2006. Kaffy, who was born in Lagos, Nigeria, on June 30, 1980, started dancing at an early age. She had instruction in hip-hop, ballet, and modern dance, among other forms. Kaffy has received multiple honours for her love and commitment to her art, including the Nigeria Entertainment Award for Best Dancer. She has also collaborated with a number of well-known musicians, such as Tiwa Savage and P-Square.
6. Joke Silva
Joke Silva is a veteran Nigerian actress, director, and producer. With a career spanning over three decades, she has established herself as one of Nollywood’s most respected and influential figures. Born on September 29, 1961, in Lagos, Nigeria, Joke began her acting career in the early 1990s. Her breakout role in the 1993 movie “Owuro Lojo” earned her critical acclaim and recognition within the industry. Joke has since appeared in numerous films and television shows, including “The Village Headmaster” and “Tinsel.” Her versatility and range have earned her several awards and nominations, including the Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actress.
4. Genevieve Nnaji
Genevieve Nnaji is a household name in Nigeria, synonymous with excellence in acting and entertainment. As one of the highest-paid actresses in Nigeria, she has built a reputation for her impeccable diction, superb acting skills, and captivating on-screen presence.
Born on May 3, 1979, in Mbaise, Imo State, Nigeria, Genevieve began her acting career at the age of 19. Her breakout role in the 1998 movie “Most Wanted” earned her critical acclaim and recognition within the industry. Since then, Genevieve has acted in a number of films, such as “Ijé,” “Tango with Me,” and “Half of a Yellow Sun.” She has received multiple accolades and nominations for her performances, including the Best Actress Africa Movie Academy Award. Genevieve is a successful entrepreneur in addition to her performing career. She is the CEO of the St. Genevieve clothing line, which sells a variety of fashionable yet reasonably priced women’s apparel.
3. Funke Akindele
Funke Akindele is a talented Nigerian actress, filmmaker, and entrepreneur. With a career spanning over two decades, she has established herself as one of Nollywood’s most bankable stars. Born on August 24, 1976, in Ikorodu, Lagos State, Nigeria, Funke began her acting career in the early 2000s. Her breakout role in the 2001 movie “I Need to Know” earned her critical acclaim and recognition within the industry.
Since then, Funke has been in a number of films, such as “Jenifa,” “The Return of Jenifa,” and “Omo Ghetto: The Saga.” She has received multiple accolades and nominations for her performances, including the Best Actress Africa Movie Academy Award. Funke has a strong filmmaking career in addition to her acting career. Among her many productions and directorial credits are “Battle on Buka Street” and “Omo Ghetto: The Saga.” RECOMMENDED: Funke Akindele Biography, Net Worth and Career.
2. Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie is a well-known Nigerian author of short stories, essays, and novels. She is among Nigeria’s most well-known and highly regarded young Anglophone writers. Chimamanda, who was born in Enugu, Nigeria, on September 15, 1977, started writing at an early age. Her first book, “Purple Hibiscus,” was well received by critics when it was released in 2003.
Chimamanda has since published several novels, including “Half of a Yellow Sun” and “Americanah.” Her works have been translated into over 30 languages and have earned her numerous awards and honors, including the Orange Prize and a MacArthur Fellowship.
In addition to her writing career, Chimamanda is also a prominent feminist and activist. Her TEDx talk “We Should All Be Feminists” has been viewed millions of times and has become a rallying cry for feminism around the world. RECOMMENDED: Richest Women in and their Net Worth.
1. Agbani Darego
Agbani Darego is a Nigerian model and beauty queen who made history by becoming the first black African to win Miss World in 2001. Born on December 22, 1982, in Lagos, Nigeria, Agbani began her modeling career at a young age. She won several local beauty pageants before competing in the Miss World pageant. Agbani’s win at Miss World was a significant milestone for Nigeria and Africa. She has since become a prominent figure in the fashion industry, working with top designers and brands.
Agbani is not only a successful model but also a successful businesswoman. She has her own denim line, AD by Agbani Darego, and has participated in a number of commercial projects. Agbani has also been involved in humanitarian endeavours, such as promoting education and healthcare in Nigeria. She has motivated many young Africans to pursue professions in modelling and fashion.
Conclusion about 15 Most Influential Women In Nigeria in 2025
In conclusion, these 15 Nigerian women have demonstrated exceptional leadership, innovation, and resilience in their respective fields. From entertainment and fashion to politics and entrepreneurship, they have shattered glass ceilings and inspired a new generation of women to pursue their dreams. Their contributions have not only transformed Nigeria but have also made a significant impact on the global stage. As we celebrate their achievements, we honor the power of women to shape the future and create a better world for all.
Other Nigerian women (from history) who deserve a worthy mention include Kudirat Abiola, Lady Kofo Ademola, Toyin Adewale, Queen Amina of Zaria, Mrs. Grace Alele Williams, Diana Wiwa, Christina Anyanwu, Bolanle Awe, Lola Ayorinde, Buchi Emecheta, Dr. Bene Madunagu, Flora Nwapa, Chief Bisi Ogunleye, Dr. Elizabeth Dupe Ojo, Mrs. Bisoye Tejuosho, Madam Tinunbu, Hajara Usman, Rebecca Ikpe, Major General Aderonke Kale and Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti.
