Across Africa, women leaders, institutions, and young changemakers continue to advance justice, democracy, and gender equality. Today’s spotlight highlights Josephine Anenih, the justice-driven work of Women’s Aid Collective, and the rising political leadership of Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.
Woman of Impact
Josephine Anenih — Nigeria
“Women must not only participate in politics; they must influence decisions that shape society.” — Josephine Anenih
Josephine Anenih has long been a powerful voice for women’s political participation and leadership in Nigeria. A veteran politician and gender advocate, she served as Nigeria’s Minister of Women Affairs and played a central role in advancing policies that promote women’s representation in governance.
As former National President of the National Council of Women Societies, Anenih championed initiatives aimed at strengthening women’s economic empowerment and civic engagement. Her advocacy has consistently emphasised the need for women to move beyond symbolic representation to meaningful influence in national decision-making.
Through decades of service in public life, she has mentored many emerging female leaders and helped shape the national conversation around gender equality in politics, reinforcing the importance of women’s voices in Nigeria’s democratic development.
Organisation of Impact
Women’s Aid Collective — Nigeria
“Women’s rights are human rights, and access to justice must be available to every woman.” — WACOL
The Women’s Aid Collective is one of Nigeria’s most respected organisations working to advance women’s rights and access to justice. Founded by renowned human rights lawyer Joy Ngozi Ezeilo, WACOL has spent decades providing legal aid, advocacy, and protection services for women and girls facing gender-based violence and discrimination.
Through legal representation, public education campaigns, and community outreach programmes, WACOL has empowered thousands of survivors to seek justice. The organisation has also played a key role in promoting stronger legal protections for women, including advocacy supporting the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act.
By strengthening legal awareness and accountability within Nigeria’s justice system, WACOL continues to champion a society where women can live free from violence, discrimination, and injustice.
Young Woman of Impact
Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan — Nigeria
“Leadership is about courage — the courage to speak, to challenge injustice, and to stand for the people.” — Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan
Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan has emerged as one of Nigeria’s most visible young political leaders advocating for transparency, development, and gender inclusion. Known for her bold activism and reform-driven politics, she gained national recognition through her advocacy for economic development and infrastructure reforms in Nigeria’s mining and steel sector.
Her entry into electoral politics symbolised a new wave of youth-driven leadership challenging entrenched political systems. As a senator representing Kogi Central, she has continued to advocate for accountable governance, economic development, and increased opportunities for women and young people in public life.
Akpoti-Uduaghan’s political journey has inspired many young African women to see politics as a platform for transformation, demonstrating that courage, persistence, and advocacy can open doors for a new generation of female leaders.
