Two prominent Nigerian women, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala and Mo Abudu, have been recognized in Forbes’ 100 Most Powerful Women for 2025, underscoring their trailblazing achievements and influence across their respective fields.

Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, ranked 92nd, made history as the first woman and African to serve as Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO). With over 30 years of experience in international development, Okonjo-Iweala has had a significant impact through her roles as Nigeria’s Finance Minister (twice) and briefly as Foreign Minister. Her leadership continues to promote trade as a tool for sustainable development and poverty reduction globally.

Mo Abudu, ranked 98th, is a media mogul and founder of EbonyLife Media, a company that has revolutionized African entertainment and storytelling. Under her leadership, EbonyLife TV has expanded to 49 countries, and she has forged groundbreaking partnerships with major global companies, including Sony Pictures, AMC Networks, and Netflix. Abudu is widely regarded as one of the most influential women in the global media industry.

Their inclusion in this prestigious list, alongside global powerhouses like Ursula von der Leyen, Christine Lagarde, and new entrants such as Kim Kardashian, highlights the growing influence of women leaders in shaping industries and narratives worldwide.