Two distinguished Nigerian women, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala and Mo Abudu, have been named among Forbes’ 100 World’s Most Powerful Women for 2025, reaffirming their global influence and groundbreaking achievements.
Okonjo-Iweala, ranked 92nd, continues to make history as the first woman and first African to serve as Director-General of the World Trade Organisation (WTO). With more than three decades of experience in international development, she has held two terms as Nigeria’s Finance Minister and briefly served as Foreign Minister. Her leadership at the WTO has been widely recognised for advancing trade as a catalyst for sustainable development and poverty reduction.
Media entrepreneur Mo Abudu, listed at 98th, has cemented her place as a trailblazer in global entertainment through EbonyLife Media. Her network, EbonyLife TV, broadcasts across more than 49 countries and has secured groundbreaking partnerships with global studios such as Sony Pictures, AMC Networks, and Netflix. Abudu’s innovative storytelling and business acumen have positioned her as one of the most influential figures in international media.
Their inclusion on the Forbes list—alongside global leaders like Ursula von der Leyen, Christine Lagarde, and newcomer Kim Kardashian—highlights the expanding role of women in shaping global policy, media, business, and culture.
