Celebrating African women’s leadership and influence, the ARISE News Channel on Sunday recognised 100 trailblazers at the Africa Women of Impact Awards 2026, highlighting achievements across governance, business, healthcare, technology, philanthropy, and creative industries. The event spotlighted women reshaping societies and breaking barriers across Africa.
The awards took place at Eko Hotel & Suites, Lagos, with cocktails beginning at 7:00 PM, followed by the main programme at 8:00 PM. Honourees came from Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa, Zimbabwe, Ethiopia, Mauritius, Sudan, Côte d’Ivoire, and Niger. Notable guests included Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Ooni of Ife Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Minister of Finance Wale Edun, and Professor Benedict Oramah, among others.
In her opening remarks, Eka Obaigbena said the awards were intended:
“To honour the undeniable force of African women, recognising their work, brilliance, sacrifice and the quiet yet determined ways they continue to reshape societies.”
She added,
“Long before their stories were formally recorded or celebrated, African women were already holding community meetings and steering progress across the continent.”
Among the honourees recognised as Women of Impact were:
- Olufunke Aboyade (SAN) – Lawyer
- Iman Abuzeid (Dr) – Physician / CEO
- Yemi Adamolekun – Activist
- Funke Adekoya – Lawyer
- Bosede Afolabi (Professor) – Obstetrician & Academic
- Funke Agbor (SAN) – Lawyer
- Toyin Ajayi (Dr) – Physician / CEO
- Tosin Akinluyi – Managing Director
- Deola Art-Alade – Entrepreneur
- Kemi Adetiba – Nigerian Filmmaker and Director
Other prominent awardees included South African anti-apartheid activist Sophie Williams De Bruyn, CEO Chioma Stan Ekeh, Founder Adesuwa Rhodes Okunbor, and Dr. Ehimwema Eke Aluko, paediatrician and co-founder of Premier Specialists’ Medical Centre.
Many honourees used their acceptance speeches to reflect on societal roles and inspire progress. Yemi Adamolekun urged:
“I do challenge us to think about the kind of country that we want to live in, the one we want to leave our children, and the one we want the world to celebrate in the coming days.”
Dr. Eke Aluko highlighted the importance of nurturing the next generation:
“If we look after our children, we secure our future.”
Adesuwa Rhodes Okunbor emphasised financial support for women entrepreneurs:
“The best support to give women is to back them with capital. Because when women have access to capital and leadership, the entire society is transformed.”
Dr. Kemi DaSilva Ibru dedicated her award to women and girls facing abuse:
“This award this evening is not for me. I stand in the gap for the countless women and girls at risk… We see you, we hear you, and we are here for you.”
The event featured vibrant performances, including a surprise appearance by Tiwa Savage, while Asa closed the evening with a memorable performance, opening with Preacher Man in a silver straight outfit, prompting guests to sing along.
The awards also celebrated achievers in traditionally male-dominated sectors, including Mrs. Oritsemeyiwa Eyesan, CEO of NUPRC, and Chizoma Okoli, Deputy Managing Director of Access Bank Plc. Leaders in creative culture and technology, such as Deola Art-Alade and Engr. Abisoye Coker-Odusote, reinforced Africa’s growing cultural and technological footprint.
Other honourees included healthcare innovators, philanthropists, and social impact leaders. Dr. Ola Brown reflected on her recognition:
“This recognition has made me even more determined to do more. I’d also like to say thank you to my husband… He is the biggest support I have in my life.”
Dr. Diop Bienta, Senior Envoy to the African Union Commissioner, shared:
“I came here carrying 30 years of experience of women, who knocked on doors that were never designed to open for them… This award belongs to them, all of them.”
By convening 100 exceptional women under one roof, the ARISE News Africa Women of Impact Awards 2026 reaffirmed that African women are central architects of progress, shaping the future across sectors and generations. The night celebrated achievement, resilience, leadership, and the transformative power of women working together to impact society.
Ademide Adebayo
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