Celebrating African women’s leadership and transformative influence, the Arise News Channel on Sunday recognised 100 trailblasing women at the Africa Women of Impact Awards 2026, spotlighting achievements across governance, business, healthcare, technology, philanthropy, and the creative industries.
The event honoured women reshaping societies and breaking barriers across the continent.
Held at Eko Hotel & Suites, Lagos, the ceremony began with cocktails at 7:00 PM, followed by the main programme at 8:00 PM.
Honourees hailed from Nigeria, Kenya, South Africa, Zimbabwe, Ethiopia, Mauritius, Sudan, Côte d’Ivoire, and Niger.
Notable guests included Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Ooni of Ife Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Minister of Finance Wale Edun, and Professor Benedict Oramah, among others.
In her opening remarks, Eka Obaigbena said the awards were intended “to honour the undeniable force of African women, recognising their work, brilliance, sacrifice and the quiet yet determined ways they continue to reshape societies.”
She added, “Long before their stories were formally recorded or celebrated, African women were already holding community meetings and steering progress across the continent.”
Among the Nigerian honourees were Olufunke Aboyade (SAN), Dr. Iman Abuzeid, Yemi Adamolekun, Funke Adekoya, Professor Bosede Afolabi, Funke Agbor (SAN), Dr. Toyin Ajayi, Tosin Akinluyi, Deola Art-Alade, and filmmaker Kemi Adetiba.
Other prominent awardees included South African anti-apartheid activist Sophie Williams De Bruyn, Chioma Stan Ekeh, Adesuwa Rhodes Okunbor, and Dr. Ehimwema Eke Aluko, paediatrician and co-founder of Premier Specialists’ Medical Centre.
Many honourees used their acceptance speeches to reflect on societal responsibilities.
Activist Yemi Adamolekun urged, “I do challenge us to think about the kind of country that we want to live in, the one we want to leave our children, and the one we want the world to celebrate in the coming days.”
Dr. Eke Aluko highlighted the importance of nurturing future generations: “If we look after our children, we secure our future.”
Adesuwa Rhodes Okunbor emphasised financial support for women entrepreneurs, saying, “The best support to give women is to back them with capital.
”Because when women have access to capital and leadership, the entire society is transformed.”
Dr. Kemi DaSilva Ibru dedicated her award to women and girls facing abuse: “This award this evening is not for me.
”I stand in the gap for the countless women and girls at risk… We see you, we hear you, and we are here for you.”
The awards night featured vibrant performances, including a surprise appearance by Tiwa Savage, while Asa closed the evening with a memorable performance, opening with Preacher Man in a silver outfit that had guests singing along.
The ceremony also highlighted achievers in traditionally male-dominated sectors, such as Mrs.
Oritsemeyiwa Eyesan, CEO of NUPRC, and Chizoma Okoli, Deputy Managing Director of Access Bank Plc. Leaders in creative culture and technology, including Deola Art-Alade and Engr. Abisoye Coker-Odusote, underscored Africa’s growing cultural and technological footprint.
Healthcare innovators, philanthropists, and social impact leaders were also recognised, with Dr. Ola Brown reflecting, “This recognition has made me even more determined to do more. I’d also like to say thank you to my husband.
He is the biggest support I have in my life.” Dr. Diop Bienta, Senior Envoy to the African Union Commissioner, added, “I came here carrying 30 years of experience of women, who knocked on doors that were never designed to open for them.
”This award belongs to them, all of them.”
By bringing together 100 exceptional women under one roof, the Aruse News Africa Women of Impact Awards 2026 reaffirmed that African women are central architects of progress, shaping the future across sectors and generations.
The night celebrated achievement, resilience, leadership, and the transformative power of women working collectively to impact society.
