Pius Nsabe
It was no doubt a gathering of heroines on the night of Thursday, June 19, 2025, when no less than 16 Amazons and their entourage converged on the NICON Luxury Hotel in Abuja, to be honoured by HerStory International, an initiative of May Publishing Limited which celebrates women who have carved a niche for themselves in various walks of life.
The Journal Nigeria was on hand to capture the moments these Amazons were handed their plaques.
Meet the quintessential women whose contributions to societal development remain invaluable. The list is in no particular order:
Lola Andy (Mrs. Lois Andrew) is an entrepreneur. She’s the founder of Deeutensils, a leading luxury kitchenware brand with six branches in Abuja. She founded Dee Scent Global in 2024, offering premium fragrances. Widely recognized for her impact, She has built a respected brand in Nigeria’s home and lifestyle industry.
Lola Andy
Oluwafunke Amobi is a veteran HR and banking professional with over 30 years of experience across major sectors in Nigeria. She is currently the Deputy Head of Operations at Stanbic IBTC Bank and has previously held key leadership roles in HR within the Standard Bank Group and MTN Nigeria. Her work is widely recognized for driving strategic people management and business transformation.
Hadiza Mahmud Muhammad is the Founder & CEO of Green Vilas Restaurant Ltd. She is a university-trained culinary expert with over two decades of experience. Beyond the restaurant, Green Vilas also specializes in bespoke catering for corporate events, weddings, and social gatherings. Hajiya Hadiza is an alumna of the prestigious Women and Power Program of the Harvard Kennedy School of Government, further underscoring her commitment to leadership and excellence in her field.
Hadiza Mahmud Muhammad
Rahama Sadau is an actress, filmmaker, and singer who rose to fame in 2013 through Kannywood. She is one of the few Nigerians to feature in Nollywood, Kannywood, and Bollywood, acting in Hausa, English, and Hindi films. She has won several awards and founded two production companies—Sadau Pictures and DeeDee Films—with works that have trended on Netflix. Rahama launched a charity foundation, Ray of Hope, and was named a “Peace Ambassador” by the Association of Northern Nigerian Students. She currently serves on the Technical Committee of the Investment in Digital and Creative Enterprise Programme, appointed by the Office of the Vice President.
Rahama Sadau
. Bridget A. Yakubu is an Associate Professor of English at the National Open University of Nigeria. She is also Head of the university’s Course Material Development Unit. She had previously served as Head of the Department of English, and Director of the Lokoja Study Centre. She has had over two decades of research experience in the areas of gender studies, autobiography, film, and oral folklore. She is the Founding Editor of Herstory International, and continues to play a leading role in mainstreaming women’s narratives.
Dr. Bridget A. Yakubu (Middle)
Adenike Oladosu is an ecofeminist and climate justice leader. She has represented Nigeria at the UN Youth Summit and UNFCCC, received multiple global awards—including the Ambassador of Conscience by Amnesty International—and founded the I Lead Climate Action Initiative. A UNICEF Climate Champion and international fellow, she uses her platform, womenandcrisis.com, to advocate environmental justice, gender equity, and global climate action.
Hajia Suruurah Ogunfemi is an author, certified Family Life Engineer, and NLP Behavioural Therapist dedicated to promoting intentional living and emotional wellness. She is the founder of Guided Beginnings and convener of the Guided Tribe, platforms through which she empowers individuals and families with tools for personal growth, healing, and purposeful relationships.
Hajia Suruurah Ogunfemi
Prof. Gloria O. Anetor is a renowned Professor of Public Health Education at the National Open University (NOUN) and Director of its Centre of Excellence in Migration and Global Studies. A first-class graduate of the University of Ibadan and holder of a Public Health degree from the University of New England, USA, she was formerly Assistant Director of Nursing at University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan. She pioneered NOUN’s Public Health Department and MPH programme. She has published widely, and is a fellow/member of several global health and education bodies, including FRSPH (UK), FSEPH (Nig.), and MIHPE (UK).
Prof. Gloria O. Anetor (Right)
Dr. Oluwashola M. Okpodu is an international development advisor and policy advocate with nearly 30 years of impact across Africa. She has consulted for global organizations including UNICEF, UNESCO, UK FCDO, and the Federal Government. As founder of School Hunters and Diary of a Trauma Survivor, she uses communication to drive education, healing, and social reform.
Dr. Oluwashola M. Okpodu
Mimi Whyte Femi , popularly known as The Skin Boss, is the CEO of Skin Therapy Beauty and Spa. A certified aesthetician and Economics graduate, she built a global skincare brand from her personal battle with acne and is known for empowering women through training and outreach.
Mimi Whyte Femi
Happiness Chibueze, CEO, Happiness Computers, began her business journey in 2008 with just two staff and has grown it into a global electronics company with multiple outlets in Abuja and Lagos. Now also into phone production with the Hot-waves brand, she is known for her philanthropy, work with Human Rights Radio, and dedication to spreading the gospel. Widely respected in Nigeria and beyond, she continues to impact lives through business and service.
Happiness Chibueze
Hajiya Asma’u MSA Aliyu, business woman, exemplary wife, mother and family builder. Her husband, Major General MSA Aliyu was GOC 3 Division of the Nigeria Army and was at the forefront in the fight against Boko Haram when he had a fatal accident. The Theatre Commander of the war against insurgency in the northeast died in that accident. Gen. Aliyu was completely paralyzed. His wife stayed at his side through it all, and supported him through the recovery process that has spanned several years. She held the family together while pursuing her own businesses, and showed herself a true pillar of shared values. She is an inspiring example of a Woman of Valour.
Hajiya Asma’u MSA Aliyu
Ifeoluwa Onifade is the founder of Aviator Schools and a seasoned Flight Dispatcher and Remote Pilot with expertise in ground instruction and aviation training. She has trained and mentored professionals across flight operations, aviation security, and helicopter landing.
Dr. Adaeze Oreh is a Consultant Family Physician and Public Policy Specialist with over 20 years’ experience in Nigeria’s health sector. A 2023 Kofi Annan Fellow, she has authored 450+ policy briefs and is passionate about health systems, maternal and child health, and mental health. She currently serves as Commissioner for Health in Rivers State, overseeing healthcare for over 9 million people.
Dr. Adaeze Oreh (Middle)
Beatrice Eyong is the UN Women Country Representative to Nigeria and ECOWAS with over 35 years of experience in international development. In her role, she has led impactful initiatives such as promoting biogas technology to boost economic opportunities for women in rural communities. A strong advocate for gender equality and political inclusion, she has championed legal reforms to support affirmative action in Nigeria. Her dedication has earned her numerous accolades, including recognition as a Peace Ambassador to Nigeria.
Mrs Patience Ekeoba (Rep. of Mrs Beatrice Eyong)
Dr. Vanessa Phala is the Country/Regional Director of the International Labour Organization for Nigeria, Ghana, Liberia, and Sierra Leone. She advocates decent work and labor law reforms, notably calling for the passage of Nigeria’s Labour Standards Bill to align with international conventions.
Dr. Vanessa Phala (White outfit)
The Journal is saying a big Congratulations to all the awardees.
