Nigerian Icons of 2023: Top 100 Personalities of the Year

  As we bid farewell to 2023, a year filled with challenges and triumphs, let’s take a moment to celebrate the remarkable achievements of some of Nigeria’s brightest personalities across various fields. From the world of sports to entertainment, activism, and innovation, these top 100 personalities have left an indelible mark both at home and on the global stage.

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Political Figures

1. Peter Obi: A Youthful Force in Politics

Former Anambra State Governor and Labour Party’s presidential candidate, Peter Obi, secured a spot as one of the most searched individuals on Google between January and March 2023. Despite finishing third in the presidential race, his influence remains strong, particularly among the youth and urban population.

2. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala: A Global Economic Powerhouse

Heading the World Trade Organization as Director-General, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala stands as a global economic force. As the first woman and African to lead the WTO, she tackles significant challenges such as economic inequality, climate change, and trade wars, leaving an undeniable impact on the world stage.

3. Akinwumi Adesina: Driving Africa’s Economic Future

As the President of the African Development Bank, Dr. Akinwumi Adesina has steered the institution towards remarkable growth. His “High Five Agenda” focuses on crucial areas such as energy, infrastructure, industrialization, food security, and gender equality, to improve millions of lives across the continent.

4. Amina J. Mohammed: Championing Sustainable Development

Amina J. Mohammed, Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations, has been a consistent champion of sustainable development and global progress since 2017. From advising Nigerian presidents on poverty and development to shaping the UN’s 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, her career reflects dedication and vision.

5. Sanusi Lamido Sanusi: Fearless Advocate for Transparency

Despite facing exile due to his outspokenness, the legacy of former Central Bank Governor Sanusi Lamido Sanusi endures. A fearless advocate for transparency, he reshaped Nigeria’s financial and religious landscapes, leaving an indelible mark on the nation’s history.

6. Datti Baba-Ahmed

Datti Baba-Ahmed, the Labour Party’s vice presidential candidate in the 2023 presidential election, emerged as a prominent advocate for change. He passionately called for an end to corruption and violence, emphasizing the need to “stop the stealing and start the keeping” and “stop the killing and start the healing.”

7. Obi Ezekwesili: A Multifaceted Contributor to Nigeria’s Progress

Dr. Obiageli “Oby” Ezekwesili’s contributions to Nigeria are multifaceted. As a co-founder of Transparency International, she played a pivotal role in promoting global government transparency. Her ongoing efforts involve speaking out against corruption and advocating for good governance, holding leaders accountable.

8. Pat Utomi: A Living Legend Shaping Leadership Discussions

Professor Pat Utomi, a distinguished scholar in political economy, has left an indelible mark on various sectors. His founding of the Centre for Value in Leadership and the African Democratic Congress showcases his commitment to growth economics, comparative development, and international leadership discussions. His recognition as one of Nigeria’s top ten Living Legends underscores his enduring influence.

9. Alex Otti

Alex Otti emerged as a beacon of hope for the people of Abia state. His early actions, particularly in cleaning up the Aba and Umuahia areas, suggested a positive direction for the region. Otti’s efforts aimed at providing genuine leadership and fostering positive change.

10. Aisha Yesufu: The Voice for Free and Fair Elections

In 2023, Aisha Yesufu emerged as a vocal advocate for electoral participation. Utilizing her social media platform, she passionately called for free and fair elections during Nigeria’s February 2023 elections.

Business Success

11. Herbert Wigwe

Herbert Wigwe is currently CEO of Access Corporation, the parent organization of Access Bank. In this capacity, he superintends over what is Nigeria’s largest private financial institution. While he’s had a relatively quiet year at the helm, it’s his other involvements that have placed him on this list. He’s recently founded Wigwe University, a $500 million project which he hopes will transform the face of higher education in the country. The setup, which has been tagged ‘Nigeria’s first ivy-league university, is set to open in 2024.

12. Tony Elumelu

As a businessperson, Tony Elumelu probably needs no introduction. He’s chairman at Heirs Holdings, Transcorp, and United Bank for Africa (UBA)—all very significant organizations. The Tony Elumelu Foundation, which he established in 2010, is committed to creating 10,000 entrepreneurs across Africa and is staking $100 million on this initiative. It is this engagement of his that places him on our list.

13. Oliver Alawuba

UBA was recently recognized as ‘African Bank of the Year’ at the 2023 Bankers Awards, organized by Banker Magazine (a publication of the Times of London). The bank also clinched eight other awards at the event. If these accolades hint at an improving business, it’s only fair to note its leadership’s role in making that happen. Oliver Alawuba, who has been UBA’s CEO since August 2022, has steered the bank towards greater success. In October 2023, the Chartered Institute of Bankers Nigeria (CIBN) conferred him with its highest honour for his services to the banking industry.

14. Karl Toriola

It’s thanks to the efforts of Karl Toriola and his team that MTN Nigeria has maintained its place as the most widely used telecoms network in the country. Mr. Toriola, who is the company’s CEO, should take at least some of the credit for the great year that it’s had with awards. MTN took home 6 awards at the ADVAN Africa Awards and 5 certificates of excellence at the SABRE Africa Awards, both held in 2023.

15. Adesola Adeduntan

An experienced commercial and investment banker, Dr Adesola Kazeem Adeduntan is the CEO of First Bank of Nigeria. Under his watch, the bank has maintained its place as one of Nigeria’s most trusted financial institutions. In 2023, partly due to a prolonged stock market rally, First Bank became a trillion naira company by market capitalization.

16. Maya Horgan Famodu

Maya Horgan Famodu is the founder of Ingressive Capital, a venture capital fund that’s investing in technology companies based in Africa. She’s also cofounder at Ingressive for Good (I4G), along with Sean Burrowes and Blessing Abeng. This year, I4G has empowered numerous Africans with tech skills, in line with its mission to create an army of competent technical talent on the continent. By partnering with other organizations, I4G has helped many young people with scholarships for its learning programs.

17-18. Ladi Delano and Jide Odunsi

Ladi Delano and Jide Odunsi are cofounders of Moove, a mobility FinTech which provides vehicle financing and other financial services to mobility entrepreneurs. Thus far, the startup has raised $325 million to support its growth and development within and beyond Africa. That amount includes $76 million which it raised in 2023—the highest for any Nigerian startup within the period.  Moove’s latest financing puts its valuation at $550 million, making it one of the most valuable tech ventures ever set up by Nigerians.

19-20. Anu Adasolum and Ademola Adesina

Sabi, a B2B digital marketplace that connects businesses with distributors and producers, raised $38 million in 2023 to deepen and expand its operations. This round suggests a valuation of $300 million for the startup. Anu Adasolum (its CEO) and Ademola Adesina (president) established Sabi in 2020 as a spinoff from Rensource (where Anu had worked as Chief Operating Officer and Ademola as CEO). Their efforts at building a platform linking businesses on various points of the trade value chain appear to be yielding positive results.

Sports Excellence

21. Victor Osimhen

Victor Osimhen emerged as a beacon of success in Naples, securing the Serie A title after a 33-year hiatus. Not only did he claim the top scorer title, but he also earned Serie A’s best player award, landed eighth at the FIFA The Best awards, and culminated the year by clinching the prestigious CAF Player of the Year award for 2023

22. Asisat Oshoala

Asisat Oshoala, the Super Sub, was the first African player to score in three different FIFA Women’s World Cups. Beyond her international success, she played a pivotal role in Barcelona’s triumph, securing the La Liga and UEFA Women’s Champions League titles. Oshoala’s stellar performances earned her a spot in the Top 20 FIFA The Best awards and the distinguished title of CAF’s Best Female Player for 2023.

23. Rena Wakama

Coach Rena Wakama etched her name in history by becoming the first female coach to lead a team to victory in the FIBA AfroBasket Women’s competition since its inception in 1966. Under her guidance, the D’Tigress secured their fourth consecutive title, showcasing Wakama’s exceptional coaching prowess.

24. Tobi Amusan

Oluwatobiloba Amusan, a track and field sensation, secured her third consecutive Diamond League trophy with a remarkable finishing time of 12.33 seconds. She outpaced competitors, including Puerto Rico’s Jasmine Camacho-Quin, who finished in 12.38 seconds.

25. Finidi George

Super Eagles Legend, Finidi George, led Enyimba International of Aba to their 9th Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) title, further solidifying his legacy in Nigerian football.

26. Chiamaka Nnadozie

Chiamaka Nnadozie, the talented goalkeeper for both the Super Falcons and Paris FC, stood tall at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup. Her crucial saves and adept goalkeeping skills played a pivotal role in Nigeria’s journey. Nnadozie’s excellence earned her the esteemed CAF Goalkeeper of the Year award.

27. Amy Okonkwo

Amy Okonkwo showcased her basketball prowess, contributing significantly to D’Tigress’s victory in securing their fourth consecutive FIBA Afrobasket title. Her outstanding performance earned her the MVP of the tournament, establishing her as a standout player.

28. Victor Boniface

Victor Okoh-Boniface emerged as one of the most exciting Nigerian footballers in Europe in 2023. Since joining Bayer Leverkusen, the 22-year-old showcased his prowess by scoring 9 goals and providing 7 assists in just 15 games, leaving an undeniable mark on the field of play.

29. Michelle Alozie

Super Falcons star, Michelle Alozie, not only gained attention for her looks but also for her exceptional skill on the field of play. The Houston Dash defender stood out for the Super Falcons in 2023, particularly at the FIFA Women’s World Cup, making her a social media sensation in Nigeria.

30. Onome Ebi

Onome Ebi, the football legend, set a remarkable record by becoming the first African footballer, both male and female, to play in six FIFA World Cup tournaments at the age of 40. Her longevity and achievements have solidified her status as a trailblazer in African football.

Musical Prowess

31. Burna Boy: Streaming Sensation

Burna Boy continued to dominate the music scene in 2023, earning the title of the Most Streamed African Artiste in Sub-Saharan Africa on Spotify. With four Grammy nominations for the 2024 awards, Burna Boy’s global impact was undeniable.

32. Tems: A Rising Star

Tems, born Temilade Openiyi, started the year on a high note as a Grammy award winner for her collaboration on Future’s “WAIT FOR U”. Her songwriting prowess was further recognized at the BMI Awards, where she secured the R&B/Hip-Hop Songwriter of the Year award.

33. Davido: Timeless Success

Davido’s latest album, “Timeless,” soared to new heights, earning a spot on the Billboard Top 50 Best Albums of 2023. His successful Timeless World Tour and three Grammy nominations capped off a stellar year.

34. Rema: Chart-Topping Phenom

Rema’s chart-topping hit ‘Calm Down’ dominated the airwaves, securing the number-one spot on the US Radio Songs chart for ten weeks.

35. Wizkid

On July 29, 2023, a staggering crowd of over 60,000 individuals reportedly gathered to witness the Grammy-winning artist during his inaugural stadium headline performance in the United Kingdom. This event marks a significant stop on Wizkid’s tour promoting his fifth album, ‘More Love, Less Ego,’ which was released in November 2022. The massive turnout attests to the artist’s widespread popularity and the anticipation surrounding his latest musical endeavour.

36. Ayra Star

At just 21 years old, Ayra Starr made a significant mark in the music industry. She clinched the Headies Award for Best Female Artiste in 2023, showcasing her talent and impact. This accomplishment was followed by a prestigious Grammy nomination in the Best African Music Performance category for her hit track, “RUSH.”

37. Tiwa Savage

Tiwa Savage, the Nigerian superstar musician, etched her name in history with a groundbreaking performance at the King Charles coronation. Taking centre stage during the star-studded concert on the East Lawn at Windsor Castle following the coronation of King Charles and Queen Camilla on Saturday, Tiwa Savage delivered an exceptional rendition of “Keys to the Kingdom.”

38. Kizz Daniel

In 2023, Kizz Daniel treated us to the hit single ‘My G’. This sensational track, delivered by the renowned music maestro, songwriter, and icon, quickly became a social media trend and even sparked a challenge.

39. Flavour

Certainly! If you’re a highlife music enthusiast, the captivating rhythms and melodies of ‘Levels’ by the Nigerian highlife maestro, Flavour, must have been a delightful experience for you.

40. Spyro

Spyro gave us two street anthems in 2023 – Who’s Your Guy remix and Only Fine Girl.

Nollywood

41. Tobi Bakare: Double Triumph at AMVCA and AMAA

Tobi Bakare enjoyed an outstanding year, securing the Best Actor Award at the AMVCA for his role in “Brotherhood.” His excellence extended to winning the Best Actor in a Leading Role at the African Movie Academy Awards.

42. Funke Akindele: The Multifaceted Star

In 2023, Funke Akindele wore dual hats as both an actor and a politician. Her series, “She Must Be Obeyed,” and the movie “A Tribe Called Judah” achieved significant success, raking in 60 million Naira in less than 48 hours.

43. Osas Ighodaro: Back-to-Back AMVCA Triumph

Osas Ighodaro, for the second year in a row, won the Best Actress in a Drama category at the AMVCA 2023 for her role in ‘Man of God’.

44. Samuel Perry – Broda Shaggi

Comedian Samuel Perry, popularly known as Broda Shaggi, has snagged the award for Best Actor in a Comedy. Shaggi won this award with his role in the movie ”Inside Life” at the AMVCA.

45. Bimbo Ademoye: Comedy Royalty

Bimbo Ademoye won the Best Actress in a Comedy for her role in the hit series “Selina” at the AMVCA.

46. Chidi Mokeme: The Return to Stardom

Chidi Mokeme marked his return to the big screen after an extended hiatus by starring in the movie ‘Shanty Town.’ He portrayed the character ‘Scar,’ a notorious street kingpin, delivering a compelling performance that captivated audiences.

47. Efe Irele: Supporting Brilliance

Efe Irele won the Best Supporting Actor in a Movie, TV, or Series for her role in ‘Four Four Forty-Four’ at the AMVCA.

48. Jade Osiberu: Best Movie West Africa Award

Film writer, director, and producer, Jade Osiberu’s ‘Brotherhood’ won the Best Movie West Africa award at the 2023 Africa Magic Viewers Choice Awards.

49. Kunle Afolayan: ‘Anikulapo’ Sweeps AMVCA

Kunle Afolayan’s movie ‘Anikulapo’ swooped 5 awards at this year’s AMVCA. The movie Anikulapo won 5 categories out of the 16 it was nominated for. it won in the categories; Best Indigenous Language’ (Yoruba), Best Overall Movie, Best Sound Editor (movie/TV series), Best Writer (Movie/TV series), and Best Sound Track (movie/TV series).

50. Editi Effiong: Netflix Triumph with ‘The Black Book’

The Black Book, directed by Editi Effiong made history by becoming the first Nigerian movie to reach the Top 3 globally on Netflix. FlixPatrol’s data even crowned it as the #1 film on Netflix worldwide within three days of its release.

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51. Nse Ikpe-Etim

Nse Ikpe Etim made history by winning the Best Actress in a Leading Role award at the AMVCA for her performance in ‘Four Four Forty-Four.’ Her achievement marked her as the first Nigerian actress to secure this award category in four years.

52. Kehinde Bankole: The Talented Trailblazer

Talented Nollywood actress, Kehinde Bankole, thrilled fans with the interpretation of her role in the movie, ‘Sista’. She showed why she’s regarded as one of the best in the industry.

Social Media Influencers

53. David Hundeyin: The Lone Voice for Truth

David Hundeyin’s fearless investigative journalism during the 2023 presidential election uncovered critical truths often avoided by mainstream media. His courageous exploration into untouched spheres revealed the core of corruption, making him a beacon of truth in Nigerian journalism. He published a book The Jungle: A Personal Journey with the Enfant Terrible of Nigerian Journalism in 2023.

54. Aproko Doctor: Digital Healthcare Revolution

Dr Chinonso Egemba, known as Aproko Doctor, emerged as a healthcare influencer, blending medical knowledge with humour. His impact transcended traditional boundaries, addressing sensitive topics and breaking cultural stigmas. Recognized as the ‘Force of Wellness’ at the Trendupp Awards, Aproko Doctor’s influence reached far and wide, amplifying crucial public health messages.

55. Tunde Onakoya: Chess for Change

Nigerian chess master and founder of Chess in Slums Africa, Tunde Onakoya, continued to make a difference in the lives of children across slums in Lagos state. His intervention programs brought the intellectually stimulating game of chess to marginalized communities, offering hope and empowerment.

56. Fisayo Soyombo: Unveiling Hidden Realities

Fisayo Soyombo, an undercover investigative journalist, exposed a baby factory in Anambra state, Southeast Nigeria, through a compelling documentary. His work led to the shutdown of the Arrows of God Orphanage, shedding light on hidden crimes and advocating for justice.

57. Brain Jotter: Social Media Comedy Maestro

Chukwuebuka Emmanuel Amuzie, popularly known as Brain Jotter, dominated Nigerian social media with his hilarious skits and comedy movies. His unique ability to capture the nuances of Nigerian life made him a household name, showcasing wit, originality, and relatable characters.

58. Don Jazzy: Musical Maven and Mentor

Don Jazzy, the Mavin Records boss, continued his legacy of nurturing musical talent. Artists under his mentorship, including Ayra Starr and Rema, achieved global recognition in 2023. Beyond music, his impact extended to social media, entrepreneurship, and philanthropy, earning him the Music Influencer of the Year award.

59. Mr. Macaroni: Comedy for Change

Debo Adedayo, aka Mr. Macaroni, utilized his comedic sketches to address social and political issues. Committed to positive societal transformation, he connected with a vast audience, advocating for increased youth participation in elections.

60. Hilda Baci: Guinness World Record Holder

Hilda Baci made headlines by breaking her own Guinness World Record for the Longest Cooking Marathon. Her five-year journey captivated the nation, showcasing not only culinary mastery but also resilience and determination. Hilda became an inspiration, motivating others to pursue their aspirations.

61. Sabinus: The Comedy Virtuoso

Sabinus, a standout social media comedian and skit maker, showcased his creative prowess, entertaining Nigerians with his comedic skills throughout 2023.

62. Tayo Aina: Storyteller Extraordinaire

Tayo Aina, an independent YouTuber and filmmaker, contributed to the digital landscape by creating captivating content showcasing the beauty of Africa in various aspects of life.

63. Ibquake

Sensational 22-year-old spoken word artist, Ibukun Ajagbe, with the stage name Ibquake, is a spoken word artist, mentor, and public speaker. She creates the quake effect when she speaks, one that causes a revival and makes an impact.

64. Layi Wasabi

Layi Wasabi is an interesting character who has carved a niche for himself in the skit-making space. His skits are conventional, however, his deliveries are eccentric and intelligent.

65. Ositapopcorn

Osita Obidike is an inspiring young Nigerian who goes about looking for the less privileged to assist. From the backwaters of Makoko to various slums in Lagos state, Osita goes in to help people he never knew.

66. Titoluwa Sam-Oladapo

Titoluwa Sam-Oladapo otherwise known as Tito The Writer is a preacher, public speaker, a Christian brand influencer, and a rising voice on social media. Tito’s style holds listeners spellbound until she’s done. She uses the gospel of God’s grace and the finished work to encourage Christians, especially young Christians.

67. Rufai Oseni

Rufai Oseni, a host on Arise TV, stands out as a global speaker, thought leader, and socio-political disruptor. Known for posing questions that many other journalists might shy away from, he brings a unique perspective to his role.

68. Nwanyi Ocha

Janine Udogu, also known as Nwanyi Ocha, proudly embraces her role as the wife of an Igbo man. Through her platform, she delves into the rich aspects of Igbo culture, language, and family life, sharing insights and experiences.

69. Sisi Yemmie

Yemisi Sophie Odusanya, popularly known as Sisi Yemmie, is a Nigerian food and lifestyle blogger who passionately shares her expertise in Nigerian nutrition, recipe development, and food photography on her platform. With a focus on real ingredients, she aims to offer her audience approachable and delightful recipes while showcasing her love for family and lifestyle.

70. Fisayo Fosudo

Fisayo Fosudo is a visual storyteller, finance, and technology video producer boasting over 500,000 subscribers. With a background in economic analysis, he primarily utilizes his platform for technology reviews, offering insights and engaging content to his audience.

71. Amarachi Ekekwe

Authors

73. Suyi Davies Okungbowa

Suyi is a cool writer. He tells stories that have magic and African tales mixed. Imagine a world where strange things can happen, and you meet characters from African stories. It’s like going on an adventure in your mind. He wrote Warrior of the Wind this year.

74. Ukamaka Olisakwe

Ukamaka tells stories about Nigeria. She talks about how people live here, the good times, and the tough times. Her stories help us understand what life is like for different people in Nigeria. Her iconic work this year is Don’t Answer When They Call Your Name.

75. Ayòbámi Adébáyò

Ayòbámi is a great storyteller. She writes about people’s feelings and families. It’s like reading about your own emotions and the people you care about. She also talks about the challenges that Nigeria, her home country, is facing. In 2023, she wrote the remarkable A Spell of Good Things.

76. Lola Akande

Lola’s stories are about how people get along with each other in Nigeria. She talks about what is considered normal and how things are changing. It’s like reading about the everyday lives of people and the changes happening in the country. In 2023, Akande created a masterpiece in The Truth About Sadia.

77. Abubakar Adam Ibrahim

Adam is a storyteller who talks about love and politics. He uses the rich culture of Nigeria to make his stories interesting. It’s like reading about people falling in love, dealing with politics, and how their lives change. His iconic work this year is When We Were Fireflies.

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78. Chika Unigwe

Chika’s stories often take us to Europe, where Nigerians live. She shows us that even though they are far from home, they still feel the same things about belonging and identity. It’s like a journey through the lives of Nigerians in a different part of the world. Unigwe blew our minds with The Middle Daughter this year.

79. Ike Anya

Ike is good at making stories that keep you on the edge of your seat. His stories are like puzzles that make you think. Imagine trying to solve a mystery while reading a book – that’s how exciting Ike’s stories are. His amazing 2023 non-fiction is Small by Small: Becoming a Doctor in 1990s Nigeria.

80. Emmanuel Iduma

Emmanuel is unique because he uses both writing and pictures to tell stories. His words and images make us think about who we are, where we are, and how we see the world. It’s like taking a visual journey through different perspectives. He brings history to life in I Am Still With You: A Reckoning with Silence, Inheritance, and History.

81. Adetoun Jegede

Amidst everything else she does, Adetoun is an amazing writer. Her poems make us feel and think about simple moments in life and the beauty of friendships. No wonder in 2023, she gifted the world with her iconic non-fiction, Building Forever Friendships.

82. Ridwan Olalere and Rian Cochran – LemFi—$33 Million

LemFi, a FinTech enabling immigrants to manage money in multiple currencies, secured $33 million in Series A funding. With participation from investors like Left Lane Capital, Y Combinator, and Global Founders Capital, LemFi plans to expand its services into the United States, Europe, and Asia.

83. Adegoke Olubisi, Dimeji Sofowora, and Tito Ovia – Helium Health—$30 Million

Helium Health, offering digital solutions to hospitals, raised $30 million in Series B funding led by AXA Investment Managers. The platform provides electronic records and management systems, along with healthcare facility credits.

84. Yinka Adewale and Pelumi Aboluwarin – Nomba—$30 Million

Formerly known as Kudi, Nomba rebranded its focus to agency banking and payments, securing $30 million in a pre-series B round led by Base 10 Partners. Nomba now serves over 300,000 businesses and processes $1 billion in monthly transactions.

85. Samuel Okwuada and Victor Benjamin – Remedial Health—$12 Million

Building a B2B e-commerce platform for pharmacies and hospitals in Africa, Remedial Health received $8 million in equity funding and $4 million in debt financing. The startup, backed by Y Combinator, Tencent, and Gaingels, expanded its client list to over 5,000 pharmacies and hospitals.

86. Dolapo Adejuyigbe and Mayowa Alli – Traction—$6 Million

Traction, a firm providing financial and growth support services to SMEs, secured $6 million in a seed round led by Ventures Platform and Multiply Partners. This funding boost aims to further empower SMEs.

87. Laurin Nabuko – FairMoney—$5.4 Million

FairMoney, renowned for its instant lending and digital banking services, raised $5.4 million through a Commercial Paper issuance. The funds will support short-term liquidity needs and enhance the company’s loan solutions.

88. Ope Adeoye – OnePipe—$4.8 Million

Ope Adeoye secured a $4.8 million credit line from TLG Capital in March, reinforcing OnePipe’s inventory finance solution. Founded in 2019, OnePipe had previously raised $3.5 million in its seed round two years ago.

89. Emmanuel Gbolade, Ayomide Awe, and Atinuke Idowu – Termii—$3.65 Million

Addressing communication and brand loyalty challenges for SMEs, their startup attracted a significant investment of $3.65 million for expansion. Ventures Platform led the funding round, with participation from notable investors like FinTech Collective, Launch Africa Ventures, Nama Ventures, Aidi Ventures, and Ralicap Ventures.

Honourable Mentions

90. Chimamanda Adichie

Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, the award-winning novelist, released a new book in 2023 titled “Mama’s Sleeping Scarf.” The narrative revolves around little Chino, who, despite spending the day without her mother, discovers solace in her mother’s sleeping scarf. Additionally, in the aftermath of Nigeria’s general elections, Adichie also expressed a critical view of the United States government, characterizing it as two-faced for its endorsement of various electoral irregularities in Nigeria, including the presidential, governorship, and national and state legislative elections.

91. Nnenna Oti

Nnenna Oti, the Vice Chancellor of the Federal University of Technology, Owerri, demonstrated unwavering commitment and impartiality in overseeing a just outcome in the Abia state gubernatorial election, showcasing her dedication to academic leadership.

92. Falz

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Other Achievers

93. Blessing Abeng

Nigerian entrepreneur Blessing Abeng, a co-founder of Disha, which was later acquired by Flutterwave, is also a key figure in the establishment of Ingressive for Good, a non-profit organization in the tech sector. Notably, in 2023, she earned recognition by being featured in Forbes’ 30 Under 30 list for Young Influential Africans.

94. Hansel Ndu

CEO and co-founder of Weevil company, Hansel Ndu, in the tech industry, is a dynamic entrepreneur driven by innovation and a strong commitment to technology and business. As the CEO, he leads a purpose-driven technology consulting firm specializing in data analytics and digital transformation for organizations. Notably, his achievements were acknowledged with inclusion in Forbes’ 30 Under 30 list for Young Influential Africans.

95. Germain Ndu

Germain, a solution-oriented professional, has a proven track record of delivering results. As the Co-founder and Chief Information Officer (CIO) at Weevil Company, a purpose-driven technology consulting firm in Nigeria, he is committed to providing organizations with solutions in data analytics and digital transformation. Notably, Germain has been recognized in the Forbes 30 Under 30 list.

96. Pere Jason

On Sunday, May 21, 2023, Bayelsa-born singer and songwriter Pere Jason Richman emerged as the winner of season 4 of the highly competitive global singing competition, The Voice Nigeria.

97. Victory Gbakara

Nigerian singer, Victory Gbakara emerged winner of the season eight edition of the Nigerian Idol.

98. Helen Williams: Wig Wizard

Helen Williams etched her name in the Guinness World Records by crafting the longest hand-made wig, measuring an impressive 351.28 meters.

99. Philip Solomon

Philip Solomon, a 17-year-old student at Oyemekun Grammar School in Akure, Ondo State, has achieved the Guinness World Record for the most skips on one foot in 30 seconds.

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This article was first published on 28th December 2023

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