As the world celebrates International Women’s Day 2025 under the theme “Invest in Women. Accelerate Action,” Nigerian women have taken centre stage, showcasing their resilience, creativity, and excellence. The Honourable Minister of Art, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy, Barrister Hannatu Musa Musawa, has paid glowing tributes to trailblazing Nigerian women who continue to break barriers and inspire generations.
In her address, the Minister highlighted the achievements of Nigerian icons recognised at the 2025 Forbes Women Africa Awards. Among them was Afrobeats superstar Tiwa Savage, who received the prestigious Media Icon Award for her outstanding contributions to the global music industry and her role as a cultural ambassador. The Minister described Tiwa as a “music legend” who has consistently proven to be on the A-list of women in entertainment, inspiring countless others with her achievements.
Also celebrated were Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Director-General of the World Trade Organization, who received the Lifetime Achievement Award, and Arunma Oteh, Chairperson of the Royal African Society, honoured as the Forbes Woman Africa Changemaker of the Decade. Other awardees included Nissi Ogulu, recipient of the Youth Icon Award, Hephzibah Akinwale, winner of the Next Generation Award, and Eniola Shokunbi, recognised as the Young Achiever of the Year.
The Minister emphasised the importance of investing in women to accelerate progress toward a more equitable society. She called for the removal of systemic barriers and biases that hinder women’s full participation in all aspects of life. “These exceptional individuals have demonstrated the excellence that African women are known for,” she said. “We are committed to supporting and empowering women in the arts, culture, and creative sectors, and we look forward to seeing more Nigerian women excel in their fields.”
As Nigeria joins the global community in celebrating International Women’s Day, the achievements of these remarkable women serve as a powerful reminder of the potential within every woman to create lasting change and redefine success.
