Reflecting on WIJAFRICA’s 2024 Nigeria’s 25 Most Powerful Women in Journalism

As the commemoration of 2025 Women’s Month winds up today, it was an opportune moment to reflect on the remarkable strides made by women in journalism in Nigeria. Chiemelie Ezeobi writes that the Women in Journalism Africa’s (WIJAFRICA), selection of the 25 Most Powerful Women in Journalism in 2024, remains a significant milestone in celebrating excellence, resilience, and mentorship within Nigeria’s media landscape 

At the heart of Women in Journalism Africa’s (WIJAFRICA) mission is the recognition of trailblazing women who continue to shape the industry and inspire the next generation. The 2024 list, unveiled during the organisation’s 10th anniversary celebration in Lagos on October 1, 2024, was particularly noteworthy for honouring female journalists, just as it spotlighted emerging voices. 

Founder and coordinator of WIJAFRICA, Yomi Owope, underscored the importance of this initiative, tracing its origins to his time at Pan-Atlantic University’s School of Media and Communication. “We set up a think tank on how to impact media, and when I met my project supervisor, he asked me to find a niche. It took a lot of time and many people putting in their ideas, but that was how the initiative was born,” he explained.

The ceremony, hosted by renowned broadcaster Olive Emodi, was a gathering of industry veterans, editors, and media executives, all united in celebrating women’s impact in journalism while paying tribute to seven veteran journalists- Lady Maiden Ibru, Ruth Osime, Eugenia Abu, Bimbo Oloyede, and Aisha Falode, for their unwavering dedication to mentorship.

Doing Good Journalism 

Reflecting on the theme “Doing Good Journalism”, Prof Ikechukwu Obiaya, Dean of the School of Media and Communication (SMC), Pan Atlantic University (PAU), who emphasised that technological advancements have transformed journalism, making information more accessible but also increasing bias and distortions, stressed the need to uphold truth. 

Veteran journalist Eugenia Abu, who also echoed this, noted that while the digital age has blurred the lines between content creators and consumers, ethical journalism remains essential, the growing influence of women in the field and the need to uphold journalistic integrity despite the push for speed, must be upheld. 

Meanwhile, beyond recognition, WIJAFRICA took a step further in fostering the future of journalism by announcing scholarships for young female journalists to study at the SMC, PAU, reflecting its commitment to equipping the next generation with the skills and opportunities to thrive.Behold 25 Most Powerful Women in Journalism for 2024

No 1- Stella Din Jacob: The Leader of Nigeria’s Largest Newsroom

With more than 30 years of experience,Stella Din Jacob, Director of News and Editor-in-Chief at TVC Communications, leads the largest newsroom in Nigeria. Overseeing news coverage across all 36 states, her leadership during the most extensive election coverage in the nation’s history was lauded across the industry.

No 2- Toun Okewale Sonaiya: Amplifying Women’s Voices

Toun Okewale Sonaiya, founder of WFM, Nigeria’s first women-focused radio station, has been a champion for gender equality. Her station, operating in Lagos and Abuja, addresses critical issues such as gender balance in politics and corporate boardrooms, while also advocating for women’s rights, particularly against gender-based violence.

No 3- Kadaria Ahmed: Voice of Northern Nigeria

Kadaria Ahmed, CEO of Radio Now, is known for her fearless journalism and dedication to giving a voice to the voiceless, especially in Northern Nigeria. Through her platform, she highlights security, education, and politics, particularly in conflict-affected regions.

No 4- Maupe Ogun Yusuf: The Respected TV Anchor

Maupe Ogun Yusuf,  a prominent anchor and interviewer with Channels TV, has risen to become one of Nigeria’s most powerful women in journalism. Her interviews are known for their depth and ability to challenge societal and political issues. 

No 5- Azeezat Olaoluwa: The Fearless BBC Journalist

Azeezat Olaoluwa has distinguished herself as a fearless reporter with the BBC. Her work includes groundbreaking reports from Nigeria’s North East, including coverage of the Chibok girls’ abduction anniversary and the Maiduguri floods.

No 6 – Chiemelie Ezeobi: Shaping Security Journalism

Chiemelie Ezeobi is a Nigerian investigative journalist renowned for her in-depth reporting on defence, security, and conflict issues. She serves as the Group Features Editor at THISDAY Newspaper, a leading national daily in Nigeria. Ezeobi’s dedication to journalism has earned her multiple accolades locally and globally. 

No 7- Tessy Ogomu: Advocacy Through Journalism

Tessy Ogomu has built a reputation around her dedication to social justice and human rights journalism in the Punch Newspapers, focusing on challenges faced by marginalised communities, particularly women and children. 

No 8 – Amarachi Ubani: Bridging Global and Local News

Amarachi Ubani, an anchor on Channels TV, is renowned for her international affairs reporting. She skillfully brings global news to Nigerian audiences, making complex international issues accessible and relevant to the local context.

No 9- Sharon Ijasan: The Voice of Vulnerable Communities

Sharon Ijasan, a senior correspondent at TVC News, is known for her courageous reporting on issues affecting vulnerable populations, particularly women and children. Through her investigative work, she continues to shine a light on overlooked societal issues, advocating for change.

 No 10- Siju Alabi: Inspirational Media Leader

Siju Alabi has made her mark in religious and inspirational broadcasting, using her platform to share stories of hope and positivity. Her faith-based journalism has inspired many, earning her a place as one of Nigeria’s top women in media.

No 11- Doja Allen: Strategic Media Executive

Doja Allen is recognised for her visionary leadership in media. She has played a crucial role in shaping broadcasting and content creation in Nigeria, steering some of the country’s leading media organisations toward inclusive and innovative programming. She is the MD/CEO City1051Fm. 

No 12- The “Your View” TVC Team: Amplifying Women’s Voices

The Your View team on TVC News—Morayo Afolabi Brown, Tope Mark Odigie, Nymat Akashat, Mariam Longe, and Obiajulu Ugboh—collectively hold this spot. Their daily talk show tackles important societal, political, and cultural issues from a uniquely female perspective, making it one of Nigeria’s most popular platforms for women’s voices.

No 13-  Stephanie Busari: A Digital Journalism Pioneer

Stephanie Busari is the digital bureau head for CNN Africa and has been a driving force in digital storytelling. She played a critical role in breaking major stories, including the kidnapping of the Chibok girls, which garnered international attention. Her work continues to set the standard for digital journalism in Africa.

No 14- Konye Nwabogor: Fashion and Lifestyle Journalist

Konye Nwabogor is one of Nigeria’s leading fashion and lifestyle journalists. Her work as Editor of THISDAY Style highlights the intersection of culture and fashion, influencing the way Nigerian fashion is understood and appreciated both locally and internationally.

No 15- Kikelomo Atanda Owo: Transformative Media Leadership

Kikelomo Atanda Owo is recognised for her leadership in creating inclusive spaces in the media for women and youth. Through her platforms, she amplifies underrepresented voices, driving change in Nigerian media.

No 16- Ayo Mairo Ese: Advocacy Challenging Societal Norms 

Ayo Mairo Ese uses her platform on Arise TV, where she is Co-anchor of The Morning Show, to challenge societal norms and advocate for women’s empowerment. Her shows address critical issues facing women, helping to push for societal reforms.

No 17- Jasiri Group on News Central: The New Generation

The Jasiri team on News Central—Tolulope Adeleru Balogun, Omotunde David, Blessings Mosugu, and Katherine Obiang—represents a fresh wave of journalism. Their innovative and insightful coverage of pan-African issues has made them rising stars in the media landscape.

No 18-  Neya Kalu: Shaping African Narrative through Media

Neya Kalu, Publisher of The Sun Newspaper, is a media entrepreneur focusing on youth-oriented content and African storytelling. She is part of a new generation of women leaders who are using media to shape Africa’s narrative.

No 19- Nancy Iloh: Business and Financial Journalism Pioneer

Nancy Iloh has made her mark as a leading business journalist. She simplifies complex financial issues for her audience, ensuring that critical economic policies are accessible to the general public. She is a Broadcast journalist and host of Moneyline with Nancy.

No 20- Esther Omopariola: Covering Business and Economics

Esther Omopariola is an authoritative voice in business journalism, providing in-depth coverage of economic challenges facing Nigeria. Her work as business news anchor at TVC News, helps the public understand pressing financial matters. 

No 21- Kemi Ajumobi: Women’s Empowerment Advocate

Kemi Ajumobi, Associate Editor at BusinessDay Newspaper, has dedicated her career to promoting women in leadership roles across industries. Her journalistic work showcases the achievements of women, advocating for gender equality and empowerment.

 No 22- Ini John Mekwa: Humanitarian Storyteller

Ini John Mekwa is celebrated for her focus on human interest stories, particularly those involving marginalised communities. Her storytelling sheds light on critical social issues and pushes for necessary policy reforms.

No 23- Veronica Dan Ikpoyi: A Broadcaster with a Purpose

Veronica Dan Ikpoyi has used her platform to advocate for social justice and equality. Her work as a broadcaster challenges norms and encourages systemic change in Nigeria. She is a news anchor on TVC communications. 

No 24-  Ireti Bakare Yusuf: Feminist Advocate and Media Strategist

Ireti Bakare Yusuf is a vocal advocate for feminism and gender equality, using her media platform to challenge societal stereotypes. She continues to push for greater representation of women in leadership positions. She is radio and television broadcaster as well as host of Borderlines on Nigeria Info Fm. 

 No 25 – Funke Fayemi: Shaping the Narrative

Funke Fayemi has dedicated her career to influencing how women are portrayed in the media. Her leadership and journalistic work ensure that the stories of women in Nigeria are told with dignity and respect.

Honourary Mentions 

Victoria Ajayi, the Group Managing Director of TVC Communications; Madam Funke Moore, former General Manager of Lagos Television; Dr. Adeola Ekine, Chairperson of Nigerian Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Lagos Chapter; Mrs. Ifeyinwa Omowole, former president, of Nigerian Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Lagos Chapter; Jemi Ekunkunbor, Editor, Vanguard Allure; and Onah Nwachukwu Editor, The Will Downtown received honorary mentions. 

Others include Olive Emodi, Host the Breakfast Show, on News Central; Tewa Onasanya, Publisher Exquisite Magazine and founder Exquisite Woman of the Year; Azuka Ogujiuba, Founder, Media Room Hub; Nkem Onwudiwe, Fmounder, Her Network; and Debbie Larry Izamoje, COO Brilla FM.

Undoubtedly, last year’s WIJAFRICA Top 25 honorees represent some of best of women in Nigerian journalism as they continue to break barriers, mentor the next generation, and shape the media landscape in ways that foster a more inclusive, equitable society. According to Owope, their contributions to the field not only uplift women’s voices but also create a lasting impact on journalism in Nigeria and beyond.

Thus, as the media industry continues to evolve, WIJAFRICA’s annual selection serves as a reminder of the invaluable contributions of women in journalism. By amplifying their voices and honouring their achievements, the initiative reinforces the importance of integrity, diversity, and mentorship in shaping the future of Nigerian media.