Nigerian women have been making significant strides on the global stage, leveraging their expertise and leadership to occupy key positions in international organisations. Their achievements underscore Nigeria’s rich talent pool and the increasing prominence of African voices in global governance. Here are five notable Nigerian women who have earned recognition in international roles:
- Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala
Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala made history in March 2021 as the first African and first female Director-General of the World Trade Organisation (WTO). With an illustrious career spanning over three decades, including stints at the World Bank as Managing Director and two terms as Nigeria’s Minister of Finance, she has championed trade reforms, economic development, and poverty alleviation globally. Her leadership at the WTO focuses on facilitating equitable trade and addressing critical global challenges like supply chain disruptions and vaccine equity.
- Amina J. Mohammed
Amina Mohammed serves as the Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations, a role she has held since 2017. A former Minister of Environment in Nigeria, she played a pivotal role in the development of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). At the UN, she drives the implementation of the SDGs, advocating for sustainability, gender equality, and social inclusion. Her work exemplifies the power of collaboration and innovation in addressing global issues.
- Yemi Adamolekun
Yemi Adamolekun is a prominent civil society leader and Executive Director of Enough is Enough (EiE) Nigeria, an organisation advocating for accountable governance. Beyond her national contributions, she serves on international boards such as the Open Government Partnership and has been a voice for transparency and civic engagement in global platforms. Her international engagements reflect her commitment to strengthening democracy and governance.
These women exemplify the talent, resilience, and leadership that Nigeria continues to contribute to the global arena. Their achievements not only inspire a generation of young Africans but also contribute to the nation’s capacity to influence global conversations in trade, governance, health, and sports.