Advertisement

As the preparations for the third edition of the Frontier Discourse Annual Public Lecture and Awards continue, Pacesetter Frontier Magazine has provided a brief profile of the nominees in the different categories for the Frontier Discourse Awards.

The nominees were painstakingly drawn from different walks of life. The purpose of the publication of their brief profiles is to help voters and the public understand the reason(s) behind their nominations, while guiding them in determining whom to vote for.

Advertisement

The voting which will last for ten days is expected to commence in the early hours of October 5, 2023. The voting platform which is entirely FREE will be made public.

LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

-H.E OGBONNAYA ONU: Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu, a distinguished political figure, has made significant contributions to Nigeria’s political landscape. He was governor of Abia State from January 1992 to November 1993 and the first Chairman of the Conference of Nigerian elected Governors. In 1999, he carried the Presidential flag for the All People’s Party. Later, he played a crucial role in merging his party with the Alliance for Democracy, ultimately leading to the formation of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2013. Appointed twice as Minister of Science and Technology by President Muhammadu Buhari, Dr. Onu demonstrated his commitment to leveraging science and technology for nation-building. His political career is marked by strategic decisions that have shaped the country’s political landscape. Beyond politics, Dr. Onu is a prolific author, inventor, and recipient of numerous awards. He’s not only a political leader but also a multifaceted personality who continues to inspire and influence the political arena in Nigeria. His dedication to advancing the nation’s interests through politics remains a source of inspiration for aspiring leaders.

Advertisement

-SEN DR. SAM EGWU: Sam Ominyi Egwu, a prominent Nigerian politician and member of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), has made significant contributions to both his state and the nation. Serving as the Governor of Ebonyi State from 1999 to 2007, he is renowned for his commitment to educational development. His impact on education extended to serving as a senior lecturer at Enugu State University of Science and Technology and as the Commissioner for Education in Ebonyi State. During his tenure as governor, he played a pivotal role in advancing the education sector. In 2008, Dr. Egwu assumed the position of Minister of Education under President Umaru Yar’Adua but faced challenges, including strikes by academic unions. He later was elected a Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

-SEN. SHEHU SANI: Shehu Sani is a multifaceted Nigerian figure known for his roles as a senator, author, playwright, and human rights activist. He serves as the President of the Civil Rights Congress of Nigeria (CRCN) and is the Chairman of Hand-in-Hand, Africa. His journey in activism began with a firm commitment to restoring democracy in Nigeria, leading to his arrest and imprisonment under past military regimes. He co-founded the Movement for Unity and Progress and worked alongside northern progressives to advocate for democratic causes, including the actualization of the annulled June 12 presidential election. Sani’s dedication to human rights led him to support the disadvantaged and clash with authorities. He played a pivotal role during religious riots in Kaduna, condemned violence, and distributed relief materials. He also organized and led protests against various issues, including the Iraq invasion of Kuwait and the Israeli war on Gaza. In addition to activism, Sani authored books on peace, organized peace rallies and initiatives, and established the Shehu Sani Annual Prize for Community Peace Advocates. He has a rich political history, contesting for Senate seats in different elections, eventually winning the Kaduna Central Senatorial District on the platform of the All Progressive Congress in 2015. He gained recognition for being the first Nigerian senator to publicly declare his assets. In 2018, he defected to the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP) from the ruling All Progressive Congress (APC). His life is marked by unwavering activism and a commitment to democratic values.

-PROF P.N.OKEKE: Pius Nwankwo Okeke is a distinguished Nigerian astronomer and educator recognized as the Father of Astronomy in Nigeria. Okeke as a professor spearheaded the Space Research Centre at the University of Nigeria, also serving as the Head of the Department of Physics and Astronomy and Dean of the Faculty of Physical Sciences. He furthered international collaborations with research institutions in Japan, South Africa, and the United States. Okeke’s impact on space science in Africa is remarkable, with the establishment of a 25-meter radio telescope in Nsukka, a significant contribution. He authored numerous textbooks on physics and astronomy and is responsible for producing a substantial portion of Nigeria’s astronomers. Okeke holds prestigious fellowships, including the Royal Astronomical Society and the Nigerian Academy of Science. He is renowned as the author of Senior Secondary Physics textbook, a textbook that simplified Physics for secondary school students, being a delight for all. In 2007, he received the UN/NASA award for advancing Astronomy in Africa, solidifying his status as a trailblazer in African space research.

BUSINESS PERSON OF THE YEAR AWARD

Advertisement

-CLETUS IBETO: Cletus Madubugwu Ibeto is a prominent Nigerian businessman based in Nnewi, known for his exceptional contributions to the Nigerian industrial landscape. He heads The Ibeto Group, a pioneering business enterprise in Nnewi, a city known for its entrepreneurial spirit. Ibeto’s journey began as a spare parts import dealer, and he gradually transitioned into manufacturing. By 1995, The Ibeto Group had grown to become one of the largest auto spare parts manufacturing companies in Nigeria. In 1996, he founded Ibeto Petrochemical Industries Ltd., engaging in oil lubricant blending and petroleum product production for local and international markets. The company boasts one of Nigeria’s largest liquid storage facilities for petroleum products. Notably, in 2018, Ibeto Cement Company Limited initiated a reverse merger with Century Petroleum Corporation, a U.S. publicly-traded petroleum company, signaling his ambition to enter global markets. He has received significant national honors, including the Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON) in 2008 and the Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON) in 2012, in recognition of his outstanding contributions to Nigerian manufacturing and business.

-UGOCHUKWU ARONU: Ugochukwu Aronu, the CEO and Co-founder of Xend Finance, embarked on a remarkable journey from a world where oil companies and banks were considered the fastest path to wealth to becoming a visionary tech entrepreneur. Raised in Eastern Nigeria with a strong emphasis on education and hard work, he honed his problem-solving skills through farming as a child. While initially drawn to computers for gaming, his fascination with technology deepened during his electrical engineering studies. A pivotal internship with KPMG exposed him to a global perspective beyond the oil and gas industry. Interactions with international peers and institutions like MIT opened his eyes to the possibilities of technology. Blockchain technology became his passion, leading to the creation of Xend Finance, a platform enabling users to save in stable currencies and earn high interest. Ugochukwu’s journey also birthed WiCrypt, a decentralized mobile internet sharing and monetization network, and Quivia Games, integrating crypto into the gaming world. His dedication, belief in hard work, and love for technology have made him a force in Africa’s tech landscape, organizing meetups, pioneering DeFi projects, and advocating for tech entrepreneurship. Ugochukwu Aronu is a testament to the transformative power of perseverance and innovation.

-KINSLEY EZEH: Kingsley is recognized internationally as a visionary and thorough leader with a passion for excellence, specifically within information technology. In 2008, Kingsley Eze capitalized on his over ten years of technology consultancy by launching Tenece Professional Services, turning it into an internationally recognized elite driving innovation technology-consulting firm that specialises in delivering world-class solutions and superior value to clients. For over a decade, Kingsley has successfully deployed the most sort-after solutions to the most significant industries and governments. Kingsley started his career as a financial analyst in Diamond bank before working with Accenture as a technology consultant. His innovative and leadership skills later saw him serve as the founding Managing Director/CEO of GPS Solution Limited and as the founding Managing Director/CEO of CFS West Africa, a global service management outfit that provides technology-enabled Integrated Service Quality Information Services (ISQIS) for customer-centric service organisations. Between 2005 and 2008, he was Head of E-Business, a strategic business unit, at NEXTZON Business Services Limited, Lagos. In that capacity, he led the most aggressive e-Government and Technology Strategy initiatives in Nigeria, providing technology-enabled transformation strategy and advice to state governments and their agencies in areas including land reform. Kingsley was earlier deployed to serve as the founding Managing Director/CEO of GPS Solution Limited, an IT Solutions and Services Company focused on providing cost-effective technology solutions for public organisations, including educational institutions.

Advertisement

YOUTH ICON OF THE YEAR AWARD

-NONSO NNAMANI: Nonso Nnamani is a remarkable individual with a diverse and accomplished background. His educational journey, encompassing Computer Engineering, an MBA, and prestigious training in the School of Politics, Policy, and Governance (SPPG), reflects his unwavering commitment to learning and personal growth. Proficient in web technologies, internet solutions, e-Government, and Business Analysis, Nonso excels in the technological sector. His dedication to public service shines through roles like the former coordinator of the South-east American Corner and involvement in initiatives such as the British Council Africa-Uk Belongings Project. Nonso’s political engagement as a former Student Union Government president, ANN State Party Chairman, and candidate in state and federal elections under the APGA platform highlights his commitment to governance. He has also served as a former board member of Enugu State Water Cooperation. His passion for community development led to the founding of GPE Business School, Fresh Walls Foundation, and active participation in the Power Shift Movement, nurturing Nigeria’s future leaders. Nonso’s thought leadership is captured in his book, “Power Shift: How our actions and Inactions shape the future of Nigeria,” underlining his dedication to positive change. With a trail of awards, including the ‘IgboWealth Award of Excellence,’ the ‘2022 Ambassadorial Award,’ and the ‘Award of Excellence in Entrepreneurship,’ Nonso Nnamani continues to make a profound impact across various spheres. In his personal life, he finds joy in his marriage to Debora and the gift of parenthood. Nonso Nnamani leaves an enduring legacy of leadership and transformation.

-MARK ONUOHA: Ambassador Mark Onuoha is a dedicated Youth Development Consultant with a rich background in youth activism, advocacy, and political engagement. His journey from university days, where he served as class representative, departmental senator, and later Students Union President, reflects his commitment to leadership. Transitioning from private to public service, Mark worked with MTN as a prominent distributor for devices and accessories in the South East zone and later contributed to Airtel Ng as a business development consultant. Mark’s devotion to youth advocacy and development led him to serve as a bridge between the Enugu State House of Assembly, Civil Society Organizations, and youth groups. He was subsequently elected as a Youth Ambassador and Speaker of the Enugu State Youth Assembly, representing the youth of Enugu State. His continued advocacy efforts and dedication earned him a role as Special Assistant to the Governor on business development under the administration of Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi. Mark’s impact extends nationally, as he serves as the National Speaker of the prestigious Youth Assembly of Nigeria, contributing significantly to the “Not too young to run bill” and the Enugu Youth Agenda Bill. As a dynamic youth leader, Mark collaborates with reputable organizations like NewNigeria Movement, Nigeria’s People Assembly, and Connected Development/Follow The Money. He has received prestigious awards, including the National Heritage Icon Award, for his advocacy in youth inclusion and policy-making. Mark Onuoha is presently the pioneering Chairman of the Enugu Young Professionals Forum and the CEO of ClientSat Ltd, showcasing his dedication to nation-building and youth empowerment.

-SAMSON ITODO: Samson Itodo is a seasoned community organizer and development practitioner with a remarkable 13-year journey dedicated to elections, parliamentary strengthening, constitution building, youth development, and community organizing. Notably, Samson spearheaded the movement for the reduction of age limits for public office candidacy in Nigeria, a milestone achievement. Under his leadership, Yiaga Africa has risen as a prominent civic organization, championing political inclusion, electoral integrity, and public accountability across Africa through citizen engagement, data, technology, and policy advocacy. His impact reaches far, with democracy and citizen engagement projects spanning Gambia, Ghana, Sierra Leone, and Ethiopia. Samson’s dedication also led him to serve as a lead consultant for International IDEA, focusing on mitigating electoral and political violence in several African nations. Additionally, he contributed his expertise as a Research Facilitator for the United States Institute for Peace (USIP) on Transparency and Accountability movements in Nigeria. A testament to his influence, Samson participated in the National Assembly’s institutional reforms committee, shaping Nigeria’s National Assembly’s strategic framework. Presently, he plays a pivotal role as a member of the steering committee for Nigeria’s Medium-Term Development Plan (2021 – 2025) and Nigeria’s Agenda 2050. He co-chairs the Focal Group for the Nigerian Youth Investment Fund, established by the Nigerian government to support youth enterprise and innovation. His exceptional work has earned international and local recognition, including being named a Goalkeeper by the Gates Foundation and honored as a Rising Democracy Leader in Africa by the National Democratic Institute (NDI). Samson is a fellow of the esteemed Archbishop Desmond Tutu Leadership program, the Nelson Mandela School of Public Governance at the University of Cape Town, and has participated in international leadership programs.

-RAYMOND OKPANI: Raymond Okpani is a distinguished social entrepreneur, personal brand strategist, international speaker, and author who is on a mission to unlock the untapped potential within every young person. With over a decade of experience spanning the private, non-governmental, and public sectors, he has made a significant impact on individuals, NGOs, and corporate organizations, helping them achieve peak performance, brand visibility, and profitability. As the founder of Youthspark Pan Africa, Raymond has established a thriving platform dedicated to the leadership development of young people across the continent. With a presence in over 18 countries, his organization has orchestrated international conferences in Ghana, Kenya, and Rwanda, bringing together emerging leaders, entrepreneurs, and career professionals committed to fostering leadership and entrepreneurial growth in Africa. Raymond’s work extends beyond borders, as he resides in Nicosia, Cyprus, and is set to launch the 2023 Youthspark Pan Africa Conference in Kigali, Rwanda. His passion for youth development, leadership, and personal growth shines through his books. He is a true advocate for the belief that there is immense talent and capacity within every young person, waiting to be harnessed and unleashed for the betterment of Africa and the world.

-MERCY ENEH: Mercy Eneh is a User Experience and Product Designer. She is a Media Expert with over 5 years of experience in Photography and Visual design. She is the founder and CEO of The Female Media Network (TEFEM), a platform for impacting ladies in society and equipping them to take advantages of opportunities available in the technology space. Under her leadership, TEFEM Network has empowered over 4,200 direct beneficiaries with digital skills and connected over 50% of them to opportunities where their skills are being monetized. She is the host of one of the largest online communities-Bloomers Community where over 1000 entrepreneurs, technocrats and business experts have benefitted from the sessions. As a fast rising leader with lots of achievements in little time, she was a panelist at the Ideation cup. She is a brand influencer and this has gained her the title “Media Lady”. She’s the author of the book “I’m a Brand”. She has volunteered at over 80 community development organizations across Nigeria and is part of various social impact and community development organisations like Tedx Ikegnebu, Bedrock community, Owerri business week, Smfest, Google developers group, Friends of Figma, and Women in tech. She is a product designer at Block May ICT Solutions Ltd, Start Innovation Hub Nigeria and Chief Operations Officer at Crealllo.

MEDIA PERSONALITY OF THE YEAR AWARD (BROADCAST)

-HONEY CHIAMAKA OJUKWU: Honey Chiamaka Ojukwu, widely known as the Lioness of New School Radio, is a highly acclaimed broadcaster, event and red carpet host, business and entertainment influencer, and writer. Her illustrious career in broadcasting has spanned multiple cities and radio stations across Nigeria. Honey Ojukwu embarked on her broadcasting journey in 2014, and over the years, she has made her mark in the industry. She has worked with renowned radio stations, including Gouniradio and HitFM Calabar. Her career led her to Enugu, where she joined Urban Radio 94.5fm as the lead anchor of “UrbanFuse”. She currently graces the airwaves as the host of the drive-time show, “The RoadShow,” on COOLFM 95.9 fm Port Harcourt, Rivers State. She also hosts the “SundayChilloutZone”. Honey Chiamaka Ojukwu’s remarkable contributions to broadcasting and her dedication to philanthropy and supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) have earned her numerous awards and recognitions. Her impactful work continues to resonate with audiences both locally and internationally.

-BUKOLA COKER: Bukola Coker, is a prominent media personality and esteemed Nigerian journalist known for her impactful career. She currently holds the role of news anchor at Channels TV. Her broadcasting journey began early, as an undergraduate at Lagos Television in 2001, and she continued to hone her skills as a reporter and TV presenter at TVC News starting in 2006. There, she hosted the notable political TV show “Fireworks” and “Journalist Hangout.” In recognition of her exceptional work, Bukola received the City People Awards for Excellence as TV Presenter of the year in 2017. She further solidified her reputation with a commendation award for her report on Depression and Suicide at the 14th Wole Soyinka Award for Investigative Reporting. In 2020, she clinched the 15th Wole Soyinka Award for Investigative Reporting in the Television Category for her impactful report on sexual abuse and the challenges within the justice system. Her commitment to journalism also led her to participate in training focused on identifying and reporting sexual and gender-based violence issues (SGBV), organized by The Wole Soyinka Centre for Investigative Journalism (WSCIJ) in 2021. Bukola Coker’s career continues to shine brightly in the world of journalism.

-NIFEMI OGUNTOYE: Nifemi Oguntoye is a seasoned broadcast journalist with a twelve-year career spanning both radio and television. As the anchor of TVC’s flagship News at seven and ten every weekday, he brings a wealth of experience to provide comprehensive coverage of the day’s news. Beyond journalism, Nifemi is a versatile professional, excelling as a Master of Ceremonies and Voice-over Artist. His talents have made him the top choice for NGOs, government agencies, multinational companies, and more, where he skillfully communicates essential messages and engages audiences at corporate events. Nifemi’s influence extends to the digital realm as well. He hosts the “Thinking Reimagined Podcast,” a platform that fosters intergenerational and international conversations aimed at changing mindsets for a better global society. His passion for public speaking, dedication to broadcast excellence, and commitment to balanced, accurate, and relevant journalism showcase his enduring commitment to the craft and his contribution to informed, engaging media content.

-ALEX OGBODO: Alexander Kenechukwu Ogbodo is a passionate multimedia broadcast solutions Journalist, with experience spanning more than two decades. He started his media career at Enugu State Broadcasting Service as a presenter, Newscaster, and Producer for television and Radio.  He left ESBS as Head of Operations of Sunrise 96.1fm in 2014 and continued his media sojourn at Godfrey Okoye University Radio 106 9fm, first as Head of News and later as Head of Presentation, helping the campus Radio emerge as the best campus Radio in Nigeria at the National Broadcasters Merits Awards NBMA 2016 through passionate and unwavering mentoring and training of student media enthusiasts. He is also a gifted sports presenter and commentator since 2005. Alex Ogbodo is a master interviewer on air and off the air and in July of 2019, he joined 92.5 Fm Enugu’s dream FM as the Head of News and lead Political Anchor of the station’s flagship program, Political Voices. In November of 2022, Alex was selected by the United States Embassy in a media Co-op program to cover the US midterm elections traversing Washington DC, Maryland and Georgia with live reports. He is a BBC trained media producer and a certified Solutions Journalist with indexed stories on the solutions journalism network. He is a Tedx Speaker and the Anchor of AfiaTv’s The Eastern Eye.

MEDIA PERSONALITY OF THE YEAR AWARD (PRINTS)

-DENNIS AGBO: Dennis Agbo is a seasoned journalist. He initially learned valuable skills in electoral work in northern Nigeria before enrolling at the University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN). There, he earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Dramatic Arts in 1995 and later a Postgraduate Degree in Theatre and Film Studies. His journalism career kicked off in Lagos, with roles at ThisDay Newspapers, The Week Magazine, New Age Newspapers, The Guardian, and Vanguard Newspaper. He honed skills in Media Relations Management, Leadership within the NUJ, Editorial Consultancy, Media Marketing, Online Media Management, and Journalism Ethics. Dennis Agbo is not just a journalist but also a trained actor, director, scriptwriter, theater reporter, and critic. He served as a Special Adviser (Media) to the Chairman, House of Representatives Committee on Agricultural Colleges and Institutions in Abuja. Throughout his journey, Dennis has received numerous awards and commendations for his contributions to journalism and the arts. His interests include research, teaching, writing, reading, and traveling.

-LAWRENCE NJOKU: Lawrence Njoku, a graduate of Mass Communication is the Southeast Bureau Chief of Guardian Newspaper. Currently the Chairman, Correspondents’ Chapel, Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Enugu State Council, with vast experience in Journalism practice that span over 20 years. He has won many awards including Best Political Reporter by the Correspondents’ Chapel in 2012; Best Education Reporter in Southeast by DEVCOMS in 2012; 1st Runner Up, Golden Pen Reporter Award of the year 2015 by the Nigerian Breweries among others.

-PETRUS OBI:

HUMANITARIAN SERVICE OF THE YEAR AWARD

-WOMEN AID COLLECTIVE (WACOL): The Women’s Aid Collective (WACOL) is a distinguished nonprofit organization with a strong commitment to fostering the educational, social, economic, and political development of women and young people. Established in 1997, WACOL envisions a democratic society free from violence and abuse, where human rights, especially those of women and young people, are both legally recognized and practiced. Their mission encompasses a wide range of services, including training, research, advocacy, shelter, free legal and financial aid, intra-familial and community conflict resolution, and information and library services. This organization’s impact extends beyond Nigeria, as they work throughout the nation and across the West African sub-region and beyond. WACOL’s efforts in promoting human rights, gender equality, and combating violence against women and girls (VAWG)/SGBV have gained international recognition. They hold observer status with the African Union and the African Commission on Human Rights, along with NGO Special Consultative Status with the United Nations. WACOL’s dedication to combating SGBV includes research, advocacy, legal assistance, and support for victims/survivors, particularly in cases of human trafficking. They have played a crucial role in the passage of laws aimed at protecting women, girls, and individuals with disabilities from violence, including the Violence Against Persons Prohibition Law of Enugu State and the Violence Against Persons Prohibition Act, 2015 at the national level. As a trailblazing organization, WACOL continues to empower women and challenge cultural norms that hinder equal opportunities. Their advocacy efforts, like the Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Bill, demonstrateS their unwavering commitment to creating a society where women and girls can thrive free from violence and discrimination.

-GEANCO FOUNDATION: GEANCO is a remarkable nonprofit organization dedicated to saving and transforming the lives of the impoverished and vulnerable in Africa, with a special focus on Nigeria. With unwavering commitment, they have led impactful surgical missions and operate maternal and infant health programs that are making a profound difference. Their surgical missions have performed over 200 life-changing procedures, including hip and knee replacements and bone fracture repairs, providing mobility and relief to those in need. They have also introduced sustainable medical practices, such as the SIGN Fracture Care System, and trained local Nigerian surgeons to repair serious bone fractures effectively. They perform minimally-invasive surgeries, such as gallbladder, hernia, and appendix surgeries, benefiting underserved patients and empowering local medical professionals. Maternal and infant health is at the core of their mission. They provide vital prenatal care and anemia treatment to over 400 vulnerable pregnant women monthly. Their innovative, noninvasive screening methods have already reached 35,000 women and children, addressing a critical issue in Nigeria, where anemia affects 75% of children. They have established modern solar-powered maternal and family clinics, offering safe deliveries, vaccinations, and essential services in neglected areas and urban slums. They also believe in nurturing the minds of Nigeria’s youth, donating computers, libraries, science labs, and sports facilities to partner schools. Their commitment extends to empowering young female victims of terrorism and gender inequality with life-changing scholarships.

-LAGOS FOOD BANK INITIATIVE: Lagos Food Bank has made an indelible mark on communities across Nigeria, reaching 160 localities and positively impacting the lives of over 2.4 million beneficiaries. This incredible journey is powered by a massive force of 2.4 million registered volunteers, driven by a shared vision of ensuring access to sufficient and nutritious food for all. With eight active programs and the invaluable support of 150 NGO partners and 500 corporate allies, they have expended $1,000,000 on initiatives that combat hunger, malnutrition, and poverty. Through innovative solutions, they have championed sustainable food security, including: Livestock and Crop Farming and Front-Line Food Banking. The front-line model tackles hunger through school feeding, community nutrition interventions, urban farming, job placement programs, and direct assistance to walk-in beneficiaries. Their mission revolves around being Nigeria’s leading domestic hunger relief organization. They are also on a dual mission to address immediate nutritional needs and, more importantly, to foster long-term empowerment and equitable access to food resources. The stark reality of multidimensional poverty in Nigeria, with a large percentage of the population unable to afford basic necessities, fuels their determination. They strive to bridge this gap by promoting food security and sustainable livelihoods, with a particular focus on women and youth. Lagos Food Bank’s innovative Job Placement Programme seeks to tackle underlying causes of hunger, such as poverty and unemployment, by helping our beneficiaries secure employment and self-sufficiency.

WOMAN OF THE TIME AWARD

-ENE OBI: Ene Obi is an activist and the immediate past Country Director of ActionAid Nigeria. Ene was among those who struggled for democracy in her youth and she was imprisoned, detained, and kidnapped by the then military. She has since worked with the labour movement, led a feminist movement, and worked across the federal structure in Nigeria. Since 2018, with her role in ActionAid, Ene has worked with local women leaders to challenge power relations, increased the number of women participating in decision-making processes and spaces, and to end violence against women and girls.

-TARA FELA-DUROTOYE: Tara Fela Durotoye is a beauty entrepreneur and lawyer.  She is the founder and CEO of House of Tara International and creator of the Tara Orekelewa Beauty range, Inspired Perfume and the H.I.P Beauty range. She established the first makeup school in Nigeria, launched the first bridal directory in 1999 and set up international standard makeup studios. She’s a pioneer in the bridal makeup profession in Nigeria. In 2007, Tara Fela-Durotoye was awarded the Africa SMME Award and the Entrepreneur award in South Africa and in 2013, Forbes listed her as one 20 Young Power Women In Africa. In 2020, the magazine Forbes listed her among “Africa’s 50 Most Powerful Women. She is a member of the France/Nigeria Investment club which was incorporated in 2018 by the French President Emmanuel Macron.

-PROF NNENNA OTI: Prof Nnenna Oti is is a professor and the first female substantive Vice-Chancellor of Federal University of Technology Owerri (FUTO). On 13 April 2021, Nnenna Oti defeated Ikechukwu Dozie, six other candidates and was elected as the first female Vice-Chancellor of Federal University of Technology Owerri. Prof Oti is a three-time head of department of soil science and technology in the school of agricultural and agriculture technology at Federal University of Technology Owerri. She is a professor of soil science, environmental conservation and an immediate past Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Academic. She is a past chairman of Gender Policy Unit and the immediate past dean of post-graduate school in her second tenure. She has served as a consultant to various government agencies including TETFund and Anambra Imo River Basin Development Authority. Oti was the returning officer in the 2023 Abia state governorship election and was hailed for the key role she played in ensuring that the election outcome was not compromised despite alleged attempts and pressure from political actors of different political parties in the state.

-PROF MOJISOLA ADEYEYE: Prof Moji Adeyeye is a pharmacist and professor. On 3 November 2017, she was appointed the Director-General of National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) by the President of The Federal Republic of Nigeria, Muhammadu Buhari. She was a Professor of Pharmaceutics and Manufacturing for 21 years at Duquesne University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA. Through Duquesne University, she was able to develop an anti-retroviral (HIV/AIDS) pediatric fixed-dose combination and received intellectual property on the formulations in the UK and South Africa. She was the founding Chair of Biopharmaceutical Sciences and a Professor of Pharmaceutics, Manufacturing Science and Drug Product Evaluation at the College of Pharmacy, Roosevelt University in Schaumburg, Illinois, for seven years. She is the founder and President of Elim Pediatric Pharmaceuticals Rolling Meadows, Illinois. She is also the first African woman fellow of the 2008 American Association of Pharmaceutical Scientists Fellow and a Senior Fulbright Scholar and Specialist. She is also a Fellow of the Nigerian Academy of Science and Nigeria Academy of Pharmacy.