The Connect Nigeria Top 100 Personalities of 2024 is a testament to the exceptional achievements of Nigerians shaping the world across various industries. From trailblazing business leaders to inspiring athletes, groundbreaking content creators, soulful gospel artists, and innovative fashion designers, these individuals exemplify excellence, resilience, and ingenuity.

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Honourable Mention

1. Peter Obi

Peter Obi is renowned for his relentless efforts to restore best practices in Nigeria, focusing on good governance and accountability.

Business

2. Tosin Eniolorunda

CEO of Moniepoint – Moniepoint made headlines in 2024, ranking 14th among Africa’s top 20 fastest-growing companies as per the UK-based Financial Times. Under Tosin’s leadership, Moniepoint continues to shape the fintech landscape, contributing significantly to financial inclusion in Nigeria.

3. Ayodeji Balogun

CEO of AFEX Commodities Exchange – AFEX, a leader in Nigeria’s commodities trading sector, earned a spot as the 15th fastest-growing company in Africa in 2024, according to Financial Times. Ayodeji Balogun’s visionary leadership has propelled AFEX into a dominant force in the region.

4. Uka Eje

CEO of Thrive Agric – Thrive Agric, under Uka’s guidance, distributed farm inputs to 100,000 farmers in Northern Nigeria and collaborated with Acorn Rabobank to provide carbon credits to 30,000 farmers. The company also ranked 18th on the Financial Times’ list of fastest-growing companies in Africa for 2024.

5. Eke Urum

   

CEO of Risevest – In a significant expansion move, Risevest acquired Kenyan FinTech company Hisa in September 2024, extending its footprint into East Africa. This acquisition is a testament to Eke Urum’s leadership in driving cross-border financial innovation.

6. Damisi Busari

CEO of Sendsprint – Damisi Busari spearheaded Sendsprint’s entry into the U.S. market with the acquisition of Noble Finance, a major global remittance service provider. This expansion cements Sendsprint’s position in the international financial ecosystem.

7. Femi Aluko

CEO of Chowdeck – Chowdeck, a leading food delivery platform, hit a milestone of ₦30 billion in deliveries in 2024, with over one million registered users. Under Femi Aluko’s leadership, the company has grown exponentially from just 319 users in its first month in 2021.

8. Ladi Delano

Co-CEO of Moove – Moove secured $100 million in its Series B funding round and announced plans to expand into the U.S. Ladi Delano’s co-leadership has been pivotal in scaling Moove’s vehicle financing solutions globally.

9. Jide Odunsi

Co-CEO of Moove – Jide Odunsi, alongside Ladi Delano, continues to lead Moove’s charge into new markets, including the U.S., with their innovative approach to vehicle financing for mobility entrepreneurs.

10. Obi Emetarom

CEO of Zone – Zone raised $8.5 million in funding and introduced a blockchain-powered POS payment gateway, further positioning itself as a key player in Africa’s financial technology ecosystem under Obi Emetarom’s leadership.

11. Maxwell Maduka

Cofounder and Chief Engineer, TerraHaptix – Maxwell Maduka co-founded TerraHaptix, which opened Africa’s largest drone factory in Abuja in 2024, with the capacity to produce 10,000 drones annually. This innovation is set to revolutionize various industries, from agriculture to security.

Sports

12. Ezinne Kalu

Ezinne Kalu played a pivotal role in Nigeria’s record-breaking performance at the 2024 Olympic Games in basketball, solidifying her status as a sports icon.

13. Ademola Lookman

Ademola Lookman stole the spotlight with a hat trick in the Europa League final and his stellar performance for Nigeria at the AFCON, making him one of Nigeria’s most celebrated footballers of 2024.

14. William Troost-Ekong

William Troost-Ekong emerged as the best player of AFCON 2024, an achievement that has cemented his legacy in Nigerian football.

15. Onyinyechi Mark

Onyinyechi Mark set a world record by lifting 150 kg in the women’s 61 kg para-powerlifting event, winning Nigeria’s first gold at the 2024 Paralympics.

16. Folashade Oluwafemiayo

Folashade Oluwafemiayo shattered her own world record by lifting 167 kg in the women’s 86 kg para-powerlifting event at the Paralympics, winning another gold for Nigeria.

17. Esther Nworgu

Esther Nworgu secured a silver medal for Nigeria in the women’s 41 kg para-powerlifting event, continuing Nigeria’s strong showing at the 2024 Paralympics.

18. Flora Ugwunwa

Flora Ugwunwa claimed silver in the women’s javelin F54 event, winning Nigeria’s fourth medal at the 2024 Paralympics.

19. Bose Omolayo

Bose Omolayo earned Nigeria’s sixth medal at the Paralympics with her silver finish in the women’s 79 kg para-powerlifting category.

20. Eniola Bolaji

Eniola Bolaji made history by winning Nigeria’s first medal at the 2024 Paralympics with a bronze in the women’s singles SL3 badminton event.

21. Isau Ogunkunle

Isau Ogunkunle clinched bronze in the para-table tennis event, securing Nigeria’s fifth medal at the Paralympics.

Content Creators

22. Poetic Sparkles

Based in Nottingham, UK, Poetic Sparkles has garnered over 320,000 Instagram followers with her compelling blend of photography and videography, showcasing her Nigerian heritage through a global lens.

23. Bello Galadanchi (Dan Bello)

Dan Bello, a filmmaker and journalist with a PhD in Comparative Education, is one of the most followed Hausa content creators. His satirical commentary on Nigeria’s socio-political issues has resonated with millions on TikTok and Instagram.

24. Opeyemi Famakin

As Nigeria’s top food critic, Opeyemi Famakin’s insightful reviews and passion for food have earned him the title of “Minister of Food Tourism,” making him a household name in Nigerian cuisine.

25. Jay On-air

Joseph Onaolapo, known as Jay On-air, is a prominent Nigerian radio host and content creator. His comedic skits and drive-time show have made him a beloved figure in Nigeria’s media scene.

26. Aproko Doctor

Aproko Doctor’s social media presence has made health education accessible to Nigerians. His engaging content on Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok addresses critical health issues in a humorous yet informative way.

27. Asherkine

Omotayo, better known by his online persona Asherkine, is a well-known Nigerian content creator. He has gained recognition for his unique approach to philanthropy, often compared to global figures like MrBeast. Asherkine is part of a new trend where creators turn charitable acts into attention-grabbing stunts, blending entertainment with generosity to engage audiences and generate significant online traction.

28. Nasboi

Nasboi, known for his comedic mimicry of Nigerian celebrities, has expanded his reach into music, becoming a multifaceted entertainer with a large social media following.

29. Izunna Dike

Nigerian food content creator Izunna Dike, based in Vancouver, has gained international appeal with his vibrant cooking tutorials, blending Nigerian and global cuisine.

30. Brainjotter

Chukwuebuka Amuzie, aka Brainjotter, is a top comedian whose relatable humour has earned him millions of followers on Instagram, making him a dominant figure in Nigeria’s comedy scene.

31. Mr. Macaroni

With his iconic characters like Daddy Wa, Mr Macaroni uses humour to address serious social issues, building a strong following and becoming a key voice in Nigerian entertainment.

Gospel Artists

32. Nathaniel Bassey

Nathaniel Bassey’s album Hallelujah Live has made waves in 2024, with tracks like “Ebenezer” and “Tobechukwu” leading worshippers into deep spiritual encounters.

33. Mercy Chinwo

Mercy Chinwo’s 2024 album Overwhelming Victory continues to inspire listeners with powerful anthems of faith.

34. Dunsin Oyekan

Dunsin Oyekan has released a new album that quickly became a staple in worship services across Nigeria. His hit single “Afore” topped the charts.

35. Sinach

Sinach’s song “The Name of Jesus” gained significant traction in 2024, resonating deeply with congregations and worshippers worldwide.

36. Victoria Orenze

Victoria Orenze’s unique sound and powerful lyrics have garnered her recognition as one of the top emerging gospel artists in Nigeria, especially with her recent release, “Shout.”

37. Tope Alabi

Tope Alabi continues to be a beacon of hope in gospel music, with her soulful tracks like “Agbara Nla” remaining favourites among her fans.

38. Tim Godfrey

Tim Godfrey’s energetic performances and new album have solidified his position as a leading gospel artist in Nigeria, inspiring many with his music.

39. Judikay

Judikay’s recent singles have made waves in the gospel scene, and her unique sound continues to attract a growing fan base.

40. Frank Edwards

Frank Edwards remains a prominent figure in gospel music, with his powerful vocals and engaging live performances.

41. GUC

GUC’s heartfelt worship songs have captured the hearts of many, making him a favourite in contemporary gospel music circles.

Fashion

42. Ugo Monye

In 2024, Ugo Monye showcased his latest collection at London Fashion Week, solidifying his influence in the global fashion arena. His brand, “Ugo Monye,” is celebrated for its blend of custom and ready-to-wear pieces that fuse traditional African aesthetics with contemporary design. Monye’s creations highlight the richness of African culture through innovative reinterpretations of classic garments, catering to modern tastes. His commitment to craftsmanship and detail positions his brand as a leader in an elegant, high-quality fashion, promoting Nigerian design on an international scale.

43. Dumebi Iyamah

Dumebi Iyamah, founder and creative director of Andrea Iyamah, is renowned for her bold and avant-garde designs that push the boundaries of traditional fashion. The brand has gained global acclaim, especially for its vibrant and innovative swimwear collections that combine striking colors, structured silhouettes, and cultural influences. In addition to swimwear, Andrea Iyamah offers ready-to-wear and custom designs that celebrate African heritage and storytelling, creating pieces imbued with artistry and emotional resonance for both local and international audiences.

44. Ohimai Atafo

Mai Atafo’s Spring/Summer Collection 2024, themed “Sartorial Reverie,” encapsulates a dreamlike blend of creativity and refined tailoring. This collection harmonizes bold, contemporary designs with traditional elegance, reimagining African fashion for a global audience. Each piece reflects artistic expression, emphasizing quality, sleek lines, and narrative depth.

45. Ejiro Amos Tafiri

At Miss Universe Nigeria 2024, Ejiro Amos Tafiri showcased designs that epitomized elegance infused with African style. Her collection featured graceful silhouettes celebrating African traditions while enhancing the beauty of pageant participants, transforming them into true royalty. The intricate details and craftsmanship in her designs highlighted the richness of African heritage.

46. Ituen Basi

Ituen Basi has made significant contributions to African fashion through her self-named brand. She is recognized for her innovative use of Ankara, a traditional West African fabric, transforming it into wearable art that resonates with modern aesthetics.

47. Lisa Folawiyo

In 2024, Lisa Folawiyo unveiled a stunning hand-embellished silk crop top and maxi skirt, showcasing over 500 hours of meticulous craftsmanship by her in-house team. This gorgeous collection exemplifies her dedication to luxury fashion, highlighting the intricate artistry that defines her brand. Folawiyo skillfully merges contemporary styles with traditional African fabrics, ensuring each piece is not only stylish but also rich in cultural significance.

48. Tania Omotayo

Ziva Lagos, founded by Tania Omotayo in 2016, is an emerging fashion brand that has quickly gained recognition in the vibrant Nigerian fashion scene. The brand focuses on ready-to-wear pieces that cater to African women by blending international trends with local fashion traditions.

49. Toluwani Wabara

Founded by Toluwani Wabara in 2014, Wanni Fuga is a Nigerian fashion brand known for creating stylish, ready-to-wear pieces for the modern woman that blend traditional African elements with global fashion trends. The brand has quickly become a favourite among fashion enthusiasts looking for statement attire.

50. Folake Coker

Tiffany Amber, founded in 1998 by Folake Akindele-Coker, is one of Africa’s most revered fashion brands. The brand has pioneered the globalization of African fashion, seamlessly merging traditional styles with contemporary designs that captivate the African fashion community.

51. Swanky Jerry

Swanky Jerry, a prominent celebrity stylist and fashion consultant in Nigeria, is renowned for his ability to blend contemporary trends with traditional styles. In 2024, he continues to play a significant role at major events, influencing the fashion choices of celebrities and ensuring they stand out. His distinct style and growing influence have earned him a dedicated following in the fashion community.

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Influencers

52. David Hundeyin

A prominent investigative journalist and social commentator, David Hundeyin is known for his fearless reporting and insightful analysis of Nigerian politics and society.

53. Fisayo Soyombo

An award-winning journalist and editor, Fisayo Soyombo is recognized for his impactful stories that expose corruption and advocate for social justice in Nigeria.

54. PIDOM

An anonymous whistleblower before his arrest, PIDOM uses his posts to hold the Nigerian government accountable, raising awareness on crucial societal issues.

55. Dr. Ify Aniebo RV

Dr. Ify Aniebo RV is a Nigerian molecular geneticist, health influencer, and entrepreneur who is passionate about finding a cure for malaria, one of Africa’s deadliest diseases. She is the founder of Afroscientric, an initiative that aims to bridge the gap in young African women getting into the science field. She is also a writer, a vlogger, a public speaker, and a health educator who uses humour and storytelling to share health tips and wellness advice on her social media platforms. She mostly uses Twitter for advocacy.

56. Aisha Yesufu

A prominent human rights activist, Aisha Yesufu is vocal about social justice, democracy, and accountability in Nigeria, inspiring many with her advocacy.

57. Kalu Aja

Known for his financial opinions on the Nigerian economy, Kalu Aja provides insights that help Nigerians navigate economic challenges and understand financial trends.

58. Tunde Onakoya

Renowned for holding the Guinness World Record for the longest marathon chess game, Tunde Onakoya is also recognized for his contributions to various social causes and initiatives.

59. Akintunde Sultan Bolaji

A software engineer and community-driven developer, Akintunde supports newbie developers in tech, fostering a vibrant community and helping them grow their skills.

60. Jimi Disu

A vocal commentator on government policies, Jimi Disu is known for his strong opinions on government rudderlessness and accountability in Nigeria.

61. Kate Henshaw

Kate Henshaw, an acclaimed Nollywood actress, is also a prominent fitness influencer recognized for her dedication to promoting a healthy lifestyle. Through her energetic workout routines and consistent focus on fitness, she leverages her platform to inspire others to embrace physical and mental well-being. Her social media presence motivates followers to prioritize health, sharing insights and routines that encourage a balanced and active lifestyle.

Change Makers

62. Kelechi Ndukwe

    

Kelechi Ndukwe, a Nigerian-American naval officer, has become the first Nigerian to reach the rank of Navy captain in the United States, marking a significant milestone in history.

63. Ziko Abara

Founded by Ziko Abara, Zedtron Volt has a 150-watt AC output and versatile USB Type-C ports, and it offers 2x charges for laptops, and 4x for smartphones, and can run a TV for up to 2 hours. Proudly made in Ebonyi State, Nigeria, this is a testament to innovative engineering.

64. Alex Onyia

Alex Onyia is the CEO of Educare, Africa’s top education technology platform for K-12 education. Serving over 1 million students and 300,000 parents, Educare is transforming the way education is delivered across the continent. The platform focuses on providing innovative learning solutions tailored to the needs of students, helping to bridge educational gaps in Africa.

65. Adewale Yusuf

Adewale Yusuf is a 3X founder with experience building tech startups across Africa. He specializes in media strategy, leadership, growth hacking, and business development. Through AltSchool Africa, he provides accessible education, helping individuals acquire the skills needed to grow their careers.

66. Nelly Agbogu

Nelly Agbogu is the founder of Naija Brand Chick and Nellies Healthy Food & Snack Company. Her entrepreneurial journey began from her struggle with weight and the hurtful experiences of body shaming. Now, she is dedicated to helping others achieve healthier lifestyles while growing her businesses.

67. Fola David

Nigerian doctor and hyperrealism artist Dr Fola David recently set a new Guinness World Record for creating the largest individual drawing. His artwork, titled “Unity in Diversity,” spans an impressive 1,000 square meters and highlights Nigeria’s cultural richness through depictions of its diverse tribes, attires, and languages.

68. Chidimma Adetshina

Chidimma Adetshina, a 23-year-old law student, was crowned Miss Universe Nigeria 2024, representing Taraba State. She overcame challenges, including a controversial withdrawal from Miss South Africa 2024, to become a fan favourite and secure the title. Adetshina represented Nigeria at Miss Universe 2024 in Mexico, finishing as the 1st runner-up, showcasing resilience and pride in her Nigerian roots.

69. Kemi Badenoch

Kemi Badenoch is the newly elected leader of the UK Conservative Party, becoming the first Black woman to lead a major British political party. She succeeded Rishi Sunak after the party’s historic election defeat and aims to rebuild its reputation and prepare for the next general election by 2029.

70. Pelumi Nubi

Pelumi Nubi is a trailblazing travel content creator who made history as the first Black woman to embark on a solo road trip from London to Nigeria. Her groundbreaking journey is a testament to resilience, courage, and an adventurous spirit.

Nollywood

71. Wale Ojo

Best Lead Actor for Breath of Life: Recognized for his outstanding performance, Ojo captivated audiences with his compelling portrayal in this AMVCA-winning role.

72. Kehinde Bankole

Best Lead Actress for Adire: Bankole shone in her leading role, earning her the Best Lead Actress award for her powerful performance.

73. Ademola Adedoyin

Best Supporting Actor for Breath of Life: Adedoyin’s portrayal in Breath of Life earned him a well-deserved Best Supporting Actor award.

74. Genovevah Umeh

Best Supporting Actress for Breath of Life: Umeh’s talent was celebrated with the Best Supporting Actress award for her role in this hit film.

75. Chimezie Imoh

Trailblazer Award for Breath of Life: Imoh received the Trailblazer Award, honouring his unique contributions to Breath of Life.

76. BB Sasore

Best Director for Breath of Life: Sasore’s direction earned Breath of Life critical acclaim and the AMVCA Best Director award.

77. Richard Mofe-Damijo

Industry Merit Award: Mofe-Damijo was celebrated for his lifetime achievements and contributions to African cinema.

78. Esther Idowu Philips

Industry Merit Award: Known for her enduring impact, Philips was honoured with the Industry Merit Award.

79. Funke Akindele

Her film A Tribe Called Judah made history as the highest-grossing Nollywood movie, crossing N1 billion in box office earnings.

80. Layi Wasabi

Best Digital Content for Medical Negligence and Copyright Infringement: Wasabi received this award for his engaging and insightful digital content.

Writers

81. Akwaeke Emezi

A versatile Nigerian author and video artist celebrated for novels like Freshwater, Pet, and The Death of Vivek Oji. Emezi explores themes of spirituality, gender, and LGBT experiences. A New York Times bestselling author and a 2018 National Book Foundation “5 Under 35” honouree, Emezi has been nominated for numerous awards, including the Women’s Prize for Fiction. They continue to impact literature with their latest novel, Little Rot (2024).

82. Abi Daré

Known for The Girl with the Louding Voice, Daré writes about a young Nigerian girl navigating poverty and limited education. This New York Times bestseller received global acclaim and translations into 19 languages. Her 2024 novel And So I Roar further solidifies her standing in literary circles.

83. Chigozie Obioma

Twice Booker Prize-shortlisted for The Fishermen and An Orchestra of Minorities, Obioma’s work reflects Nigeria’s history and culture. His third novel, The Road to the Country (2024), explores Nigeria’s civil war, enhancing his reputation as an influential Nigerian storyteller.  

84. Aiwanose Odafen

A feminist writer, Odafen’s novels Tomorrow I Become a Woman and We Were Girls Once (2024) explore women’s empowerment and societal challenges. Her debut earned recognition in notable African literary lists, cementing her influence in African literature.

85. Pemi Aguda

Known for her haunting short stories and the acclaimed latest work, Ghostroots, Aguda’s narratives often feature Nigerian folklore and supernatural themes. A recipient of two O’Henry Prizes, she’s a rising talent in Nigerian speculative fiction.

86. Oluwole Talabi

Oluwole Talabi is a Nigerian science fiction writer and editor known for combining themes like transhumanism with African cultural elements. Raised in Warri and later Benin, Talabi’s work spans anthologies, collections, notably Shigidi and the Brass Head of Obalufon. His stories have earned awards like the 2024 Nommo Award, Sidewise Award, and Hugo nominations. Recently, after winning across Nommo Award categories, he announced his decision to decline future nominations to open opportunities for emerging writers. He published Convergence Problems in 2024.  

87. Samuel Kolawole

Samuel Kolawole is a celebrated Nigerian author of the 2024 novel, The Road to the Salt Sea, with works featured in major literary magazines like AGNI and Harvard Review. He’s a widely recognized scholar, holding advanced degrees in Creative Writing from Rhodes University and Vermont College of Fine Arts. Kolawole has received several prestigious fellowships and awards, including the Graywolf Press Africa Prize finalist recognition, and teaches fiction writing as an Assistant Professor at Penn State University, extending his influence in African and international literary circles.

88. Damilare Kuku

She is a Nigerian author and screenwriter whose debut, Nearly All the Men in Lagos Are Mad, quickly became a bestseller. The book humorously explores Lagos’s dating dynamics through twelve engaging short stories. Kuku’s 2024 release, Only Big Bumbum Matters Tomorrow, dives into family issues with her signature wit and sharp social insights. Known for her contributions to Nollywood, her work often portrays contemporary Nigerian women’s perspectives, making her a unique voice in Nigerian literature and popular culture.

89. Chukwuebuka Ibeh

Ibeh is an emerging Nigerian author from Port Harcourt. His writings, lauded by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie for their nostalgic and observant quality, have appeared in McSweeney’s and New England Review. Currently pursuing his MFA at Washington University, his 2024 novel, Blessings, has gained global acceptance under Penguin Random House’s Viking imprint. Ibeh was named one of Electric Literature’s “Most Promising New Voices of Nigerian Fiction,” marking him as an influential new talent.

90. Uche Okonkwo

Uche Okonkwo holds an MFA in Fiction and is pursuing a Ph.D. in English, with numerous literary achievements to her name. Her debut, A Kind of Madness, published by Tin House in 2024, builds on her previously published works in A Public Space and Kenyon Review. Okonkwo has received prestigious grants, residencies, and awards, such as the George Bennett Fellowship and Steinbeck Fellowship, positioning her as a significant contemporary writer in Nigerian and international literary circles.

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People in Tech

91. Chimezie Emewulu

Chimezie Emewulu, CEO, Seamfix, led his startup to raise $4.5 million; the deal was announced in May.

92. Ope Onaboye

Ope Onaboye, CEO, Renda, helped raise $1.9 million for his order fulfillment startup.

93. Maxwell Obi

Maxwell Obi, CEO, Waza, raised $8 million for expansion and new trade finance solutions.

94. Chijioke Dozie

Chijioke Dozie, CEO, Carbon, led his company’s acquisition of Vella Finance, a FinTech startup.

95. Gbenga Odegbami

Gbenga Odegbami, CEO, Youverify, worked to secure $2.5 million in funding for his startup.

96. Jessica Anuna

Jessica Anuna, CEO, Klasha, raised $2 million, in a deal announced in October.

97. Emmanuel Idogah,

Emmanuel Idogah, CEO, Opay, facilitated the introduction of the Opay payment gateway on Alibaba, enabling Nigerians to purchase more products on the global ecommerce platform.

98. Oluwasoga Oni

Oluwasoga Oni, CEO, MDaaS, raised $3 million to expand the network of his company’s diagnostic clinics.

99. Femi Adeyemo

Femi Adeyemo, CEO, Arnergy, led his startup to raise $3 million, in a deal announced in February.

100. Riches Attai

Riches Attai, CEO, Winich Farms, secured $3 million in a pre-Series A funding round.

Conclusion

The Connect Nigeria Top 100 Personalities of 2024 highlights the incredible achievements of Nigerians who are not only making a mark but also inspiring the next generation to dream big and act boldly. Their contributions across diverse fields remind us of Nigeria’s boundless potential and the remarkable talent it nurtures.

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This article was first published on 18th December 2024 and updated on December 30th, 2024 at 1:32 pm

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