Amid the overwhelming odds confronting the modern woman, certain individuals have risen above their circumstances, making remarkable strides in their careers. From healthcare to politics, these women have demonstrated exceptional leadership, inspiring a generation of younger females to defy environmental challenges and reach for greatness.
In 2024, we turned the spotlight on many such women who have contributed immensely to society. Particularly, we focused on their stories of survival. To wrap up the year, we present a list of our top-10 stories from our Prime Woman series.
- The trailblazing women who are officiating at the 2024 AFCON:The appointment of six women referees at the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Ivory Coast marked a significant breakthrough in football refereeing, as we explain in that edition that explores the backgrounds of these women.
- From uncertain beginnings to governor’s photographer: A young lady’s inspiring journey: Faced with uncertainty over a career path, a young graduate leans towards a former pastime, eventually learning the ropes to become the personal photographer of the Ondo State governor.
- The young filmmaker empowering representation in Nigeria’s Nollywood: Korede Azeez joins the growing band of female Nigerian filmmakers, such as Mo Abudu and Funke Akindele, making a mark for themselves in a male-dominated industry.
- This female advocate leads Nigeria’s mental health revolution: With roughly 50 million Nigerians reported to be battling mental disorders, Sa’adatu Adamu’s initiative offers counselling, psychotherapy and social reintegration services to many battling psychological issues.
- Neya Kalu: The mogul at the nexus of commerce, media and philanthropy: From beauty to journalism, Neya Kalu embodies a passion for enterprise that speaks volumes about her ambitions to empower Nigerian women.
- Star Zahra: A journey through text and textile arts:What have textiles and poetry got in common? Zahra, a vibrant Nigerian storyteller whose work extols the values of African tradition, offers a clue.
- A woman’s journey to building Nigeria’s leading business frontier: From selling baby’s products in one of Lagos’ markets, Kemi Fajana, together with her husband, launched a company with 12 branches across Lagos and Ogun States.
- Titilayo Bisiriyu: A woman’s quest to redefine Nigerian shoemaking: Titilayo Bisiriyu’s life changed dramatically at age 13 when she lost her father, leading her mother to support the family through local trading. A humiliating moment with her patched shoes at her place of work sparked her interest in shoemaking.
- How one mother’s struggle sparked a revolution in neonatal care across West Africa: In 2015, Virtue Olaitan Oboro found herself in a challenging situation as her son struggled with neonatal jaundice, leading her and her husband on a mission to save one million babies across West Africa.
- Healing Jos: How one woman’s mission is educating and empowering displaced children: Influenced by her parents’ dedication to helping others, Prayer Nwagboso developed a strong sense of social responsibility in crisis-prone Plateau State.
In 2024, a spotlight was cast on remarkable women who overcame challenges and made significant impacts across diverse fields, from sports to business and mental health. These women not only achieved personal success but also inspired others by breaking barriers and leading important initiatives. Highlights include the appointment of six women referees at the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations, marking a breakthrough in football refereeing.
Motunrayo Oyedele's journey from uncertain beginnings to becoming a governor's photographer exemplifies persistence, while Korede Azeez advances representation in Nollywood's male-dominated industry. Sa’adatu Adamu's mental health revolution supports millions of Nigerians, and Neya Kalu excels in commerce and philanthropy, empowering women through her ventures. Additionally, women like Kemi Fajana, star Zahra, and Titilayo Bisiriyu redefined business frontiers in retail, arts, and shoemaking, respectively.
Further stories include one mother's initiative to improve neonatal care across West Africa and Prayer Nwagboso's dedication to educating displaced children in crisis zones, showcasing the collective strength and resolve of women who are shaping a better future for themselves and their communities.
