These 15 Women are Redefining Media in Nigeria

Across traditional and digital platforms, audio storytelling, print journalism, and executive leadership, women have been pivotal in amplifying voices, and setting new standards for creativity and excellence. Yet, their contributions often go unrecognized in an industry that thrives on their brilliance.

This Women In Media campaign created by Culture Custodian is a spotlight on the women who have not only carved out space for themselves but have also defined what’s possible. Whether it’s the digital media pioneers breaking stories and starting conversations, the audio creators who keep a smile on our faces and capture the realities of young Nigerians, the print journalists chronicling history in real-time, or the media executives making high-stakes decisions that shape the industry’s future, their impact is undeniable.

We acknowledge their resilience, creativity, and influence in honoring their work. Meet the women who are more than contributors, the architects of the culture:

Kadaria Ahmed

Throughout her illustrious career, Kadaria Ahmed has been rightly celebrated for her contributions to advancing journalism in Nigeria’s complex media landscape. Yet, in light of her identity as a woman—navigating and challenging the deeply entrenched patriarchal structures within the industry—her work takes on even greater significance.

Born in 1967, Ahmed pursued an ambitious academic path, earning a Bachelor’s degree from Bayero University, Kano, and later securing a Chevening Scholarship that led to a Master’s in Television from Goldsmiths, University of London.

Her journalism career began at the BBC in London, where she served as a senior producer, overseeing the production of acclaimed programs such as Focus on Africa and Network Africa. Through these platforms, she helped bring global attention to an Africa that was rapidly asserting itself in a changing world. Following her tenure at the BBC, she returned to Nigeria and took on an editorial role at Next—a bold and disruptive publication that garnered critical acclaim and sparked cultural reckonings before its closure in 2011.

Today, Ahmed is the CEO of RadioNow 93.5 FM, which she founded in 2020. Her achievements are too numerous to capture in a single blurb, but they include moderating the 2011 presidential election debate and 2019 town hall meetings for presidential candidates, as well as winning the Promasidor Quill Awards.

Feyikemi Akin-Bankole

If success in today’s fast-paced world depends on both excellence and pliability—the ability to seamlessly shift between roles—then Feyikemi Akin-Bankole embodies the modern, successful woman. A graduate of Business Administration and Management from the University of Warwick, she currently serves as an Associate Communications Manager at Spotify.

While her current role suggests stability, her career trajectory tells a story of remarkable adaptability. She has worked as a Market Editor at CNBC Africa and Head of Music at Bounce Networks. Additionally, she has served as an editor and brand consultant for The Culture Custodian. Beyond her corporate career, she co-hosts the F&S Podcast, further proving her ability to navigate multiple creative and professional spaces with ease.

Adetoun Samiat Alamutu

If Adetoun Samiat’s defining trait could be distilled into a single statement, it would be her preternatural eye for quality. It is this meticulous—some might say obsessive—commitment to excellence that drives her storytelling efforts at The Culture Custodian. In her role, she seamlessly navigates between shaping raw newsroom drafts into compelling narratives, scripting podcasts, and conceptualizing media offerings. Yet, beyond her official responsibilities, her most enduring legacy at the publication may be her ability to refine and nurture the talents under her guidance, helping them evolve into their best creative selves.

Samiat holds both a Bachelor’s and a Master’s degree in English from the University of Lagos and the University of Ilorin. Before joining The Culture Custodian, she worked as an editor at NewNews, a news catch-up newsletter, from 2019 to 2020, and as an independent editor on the Beyond Borders project by Trulyco in 2020. Over the years, she has also taken on a range of freelance projects, spanning editorial assignments to corporate writing.

Motunrayo Alaka

Motunrayo Alaka is a distinguished Nigerian communication strategist, writer, gender advocate, and pastor. She holds a Master’s degree in Diplomacy and Strategic Studies from the University of Lagos and a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science from Ekiti State University.

With over 14 years of experience in journalism and media strategy, Alaka has played a pivotal role in advancing investigative journalism in Nigeria. She began her journey with the Wole Soyinka Centre for Investigative Journalism (WSCIJ) as the pioneer Programme Manager of the Wole Soyinka Investigative Reporting Award from 2005 to 2006. Her dedication led to her appointment as the Centre Coordinator in December 2008, where she expanded the organization’s initiatives from two to over ten programs. In 2019, she was named Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of WSCIJ, further solidifying her impact on ethical journalism and press freedom.

Beyond her leadership at WSCIJ, Alaka serves as a board member of the Centre for Collaborative Investigative Journalism and actively participates in global networks such as the Global Investigative Journalism Network. Her contributions have earned her prestigious fellowships, including the Stanford Draper Hills Fellowship in 2018 and the John S. Knight Journalism Fellowship at Stanford University for the 2019–2020 cohort.

Ọrẹ Ogunbiyi

Ọrẹ Ogunbiyi is a Nigerian-British author, journalist, and advocate for diversity and inclusion. She co-authored Taking Up Space: The Black Girl’s Manifesto for Change with Chelsea Kwakye, a groundbreaking book that addresses the challenges Black women face in predominantly white academic institutions. The book explores issues such as access, unrepresentative curricula, and discrimination, and is currently being developed into a television series by the BBC in collaboration with Sid Gentle Productions.

During her time at Jesus College, Cambridge, Ọrẹ spearheaded initiatives such as the Benin Bronze Repatriation Campaign and the #BlackMenofCambridgeUniversity campaign while serving as President of the African-Caribbean Society. She holds a BA in Human, Social, and Political Sciences from Cambridge and an MS in Journalism from Columbia University.

Professionally, she has worked as a Special Assistant and Speechwriter to the Vice President of Nigeria and currently co-hosts The Intelligence, a daily podcast by The Economist. Through her writing, journalism, and advocacy, Ọrẹ continues to challenge systemic barriers, promote inclusivity, and inspire underrepresented communities.

Toun Okewale Sonaiya

Toun Okewale Sonaiya is a Nigerian radio broadcaster and media entrepreneur, widely recognized for her dedication to amplifying women’s voices and advancing gender equity. As the co-founder and Chief Executive Officer of Women Radio 91.7 FM, she launched Nigeria’s first and only radio station dedicated to women and their families, marking a groundbreaking milestone in African media.

With over three decades of broadcasting experience spanning Nigeria and the United Kingdom, she has held key roles at Ogun State Broadcasting Corporation, Ray Power, and Choice FM. A visionary leader, Toun has been instrumental in promoting women’s political participation, advocating against gender-based violence, and championing economic empowerment through Women Radio.

Under her leadership, Women Radio has expanded its reach, securing additional radio licenses across Nigeria’s geopolitical zones, organizing the annual Voice of Women (VOW) Conference & Awards, and collaborating with international media outlets like the BBC on impactful documentaries. Her relentless push for inclusivity and representation has solidified her reputation as one of Nigeria’s most influential women in journalism, earning her a place in the Nigerian Hall of Fame.

A true trailblazer, Toun continues to inspire and empower women, reshaping the media landscape and advocating for a more equitable society.

Adesuwa Giwa-Osagie

Adesuwa Giwa-Osagie grew up in a politically engaged environment, surrounded by lawyers and public figures, which shaped her deep interest in politics and Nigerian history. Even as a child, her parents—a Benin father and a Yoruba mother—sought her opinions on current affairs, nurturing the curiosity that would later define her career. Today, she is a TV host, lawyer, podcaster, historian, and media personality, known for making major political and historical conversations accessible and relatable.

She earned a degree in History and Political Science from Duke University in North Carolina before attending BPP Law School in the UK between 2016 and 2018. Upon returning to Nigeria, she took her bar exams and immersed herself in the country’s dynamic but complex political landscape. As a lawyer, she gained experience at esteemed law firms like Aluko & Oyebode and Ajumogobia & Okeke.

Encouraged by friends, Adesuwa created and now co-hosts The Dirty Lie Podcast alongside longtime friend Temitayo Ayorinde. Aimed at young audiences, the show unpacks key global historical events in an engaging and thought-provoking manner. As The Dirty Lie continues to grow into one of Nigeria’s leading history podcasts, Adesuwa has rightfully carved out her space in a niche often perceived as male-dominated.

Kemi Smallz

Kemi Smallz is a Nigerian on-air personality, voiceover artist, actress, and emcee. She currently hosts The Night Cruise, a weeknight show airing from 9 PM to midnight on Cool 96.9 FM. As a versatile voiceover artist, she has lent her voice to brands such as Just Write Supermarket, Mega Plaza, Hubmart Park & Shop, Spar, Eleanor, and D’Prince Supermarket.

Her journey in radio began at just 14 when she became a child presenter for Tales Africa, Kiddies Island, and Generation Next in 2004. A graduate of the University of Lagos, Kemi gained national recognition in 2013 after securing a top-three spot in the MTV VJ Search, standing out among 3,000 contestants.

At City 105.1 FM, she expanded her expertise as a content developer for GoldmyneTV, hosted the Nightlife Radio Show, and contributed to Men’s Corner. Her career has been marked by numerous accolades, including the Student Choice OAP of the Year Award at the 2016 ANUCA, the MAYAA Radio Personality of the Year Award, and the POPA Awards in 2020. That same year, the Nigerian Institute of Journalism recognized her contributions to the media. In 2016, she was named Female On-Air Personality of the Year at the City People Music Awards and Outstanding Radio Program Presenter at the Nigerian Broadcasters Merit Awards.

Now a key voice at Cool FM, Kemi is ranked alongside industry heavyweights like Daddy Freeze, Dotun, Taymi B, and Manny, solidifying her status as one of Nigeria’s top radio personalities.

Melody Hassan

Melody Hassan is a prominent Nigerian on-air personality (OAP), media entrepreneur, and advocate, recognized for her influence in radio, music curation, and social commentary. Through her work as a broadcaster, podcaster, and A&R specialist, she has made a lasting impact on Nigeria’s entertainment industry.

She currently hosts City Café on City 105.1 FM, a midday show where she engages audiences with insightful discussions on entertainment, lifestyle, and social issues while spotlighting emerging music talents.

Beyond radio, Melody co-hosts the Zero Conditions Podcast alongside Motolani Alake, a respected music journalist and critic, and Excel Joab. The podcast explores pop culture, social dynamics, relationships, and music with a mix of humor, sharp analysis, and candid storytelling. Its engaging discussions have earned it a dedicated following among young Nigerians.

More than just an entertainment enthusiast, Melody is an outspoken advocate for social justice, particularly on issues affecting women. She actively uses her platform to address gender-based violence, women’s representation in media, and the challenges of navigating male-dominated industries.

Aisha Salaudeen

Aisha Salaudeen is a Nigerian multimedia journalist, producer, and writer known for uncovering untold stories and advocating for women’s rights.

Her journey into media began in 2013 as a volunteer presenter at the University of Bradford’s radio station. Upon returning to Nigeria in 2017, she transitioned from accounting to journalism, freelancing for esteemed outlets like Al Jazeera and the Financial Times. In 2018, she joined Stears Business, where she covered business and cultural stories, including a groundbreaking investigative piece on the challenges unmarried Nigerian women face when trying to secure rental housing—exposing deep-seated societal biases and systemic obstacles.

In 2019, Aisha became a digital features producer at CNN’s Lagos bureau, scripting and producing sponsored television programs that spotlighted diverse African stories. Her work ranged from profiling young tech innovators to tackling critical issues such as gender inequality and sexual violence. Among her standout features was a profile on photographer Nelly Ating, who documented the lives of individuals affected by conflict in northeastern Nigeria, bringing global attention to their struggles.

She has since moved on from CNN and now leads the media team at Paystack, Africa’s foremost fintech startup, continuing her mission to tell impactful African stories.

Jola Ayeye

Jola Ayeye stands at the helm of a cultural juggernaut in African media. As a multimedia professional creating across various formats and platforms, she has carved out a distinct voice and cemented her influence in the industry.

In 2017, she co-created I Said What I Said alongside FK Abudu—a podcast that has grown into one of Africa’s most popular and enduring shows. What began as a platform rooted in the deliciously informal art of Gbéborùn (gossip) has evolved into something far more profound, sparking candid conversations on culture, society, and everyday life.

Beyond entertainment, Ayeye has remained a steadfast advocate for women’s rights and justice, using both her podcast and personal platforms to amplify critical conversations. Her journey is a testament to the power of collaboration and community-building, proving that meaningful impact is rarely the work of solitary genius but rather the result of sustained collective effort.

Busola Tejumola 

Dr. Busola Tejumola is the Executive Head of Content & West Africa Channels at MultiChoice Nigeria, embodying strategic vision, educational excellence, and a deep commitment to storytelling.

Understanding the value of a global perspective, she pursued advanced studies abroad, earning a Master’s in Management Information Systems from the University of Surrey, UK, followed by a PhD in Management Information Systems from Brunel University, UK. Her doctoral research on User Adoption and Change Management honed her analytical and critical thinking skills—tools that have shaped her leadership style. This fusion of technical expertise and strategic insight has been instrumental in keeping MultiChoice at the forefront of media innovation.

Dr. Tejumola’s journey with MultiChoice Nigeria began in 2014 when she joined as Head of Strategy and Insights, leveraging data-driven approaches to analyze audience behavior, optimize content offerings, and refine strategic decisions. By 2017, she had risen to General Manager of Production, overseeing key content initiatives and spearheading the revival of flagship productions such as Big Brother Naija and the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA). These productions not only solidified MultiChoice’s brand leadership but also shaped entertainment trends and pop culture across Africa.

Uche Pedro

One woman’s vision has reshaped how Nigerian stories reach the world. Uche Pedro’s journey from a university student to a digital media leader in Africa exemplifies the power of seeing opportunity where others see absence. As the founder of BellaNaija, she has built a cultural powerhouse that celebrates African excellence, amplifies authentic voices, and challenges stereotypes through vibrant, nuanced storytelling.

Pedro’s path began with a strong educational foundation. After completing her early education in Nigeria, she earned an Honors Business Administration degree from Ivey Business School in Canada, graduating with distinction in 2006. Her commitment to continuous learning later led her to the Harvard Kennedy School, where she earned a master’s in public administration in 2020. These academic experiences sharpened her business acumen and deepened her understanding of leadership, innovation, and civic engagement—principles that have defined her career.

Before launching her entrepreneurial journey, Pedro gained valuable corporate experience working with global brands like Shell Canada and Cadbury in the UK and Nigeria. These roles exposed her to international business strategies and consumer insights, refining her ability to analyze markets and build scalable business models. Yet, her passion for showcasing African culture remained at the core of her ambitions.

Chinasa Anukam 

Chinasa Anukam is an American-born Nigerian host, stand-up comedian, presenter, screenwriter, and content creator. She spent her formative years in Abuja, attending Loyola Jesuit College, a Catholic-owned institution. Moving to the UK, she pursued a law degree at the University of Bristol—an experience that ultimately became the launch pad for her stand-up comedy career.

The vision for Is The Seat Taken?, Chinasa’s successful YouTube series, emerged from her desire to create content that humanizes celebrities beyond their professional personas while offering Nigerians a much-needed escape from daily socioeconomic pressures. The show features unscripted, date-style conversations with Nigerian creatives she admires or finds interesting. Kicking off with Falz as her first guest, Is The Seat Taken? has since hosted a star-studded lineup, including footballer Alex Iwobi, music executive Don Jazzy, comedian Layi Wasabi, actor Efa Iwara, and artists like Tems, Shallipopi, Fireboy DML, Odumodublvck, and Joeboy.

With its widespread popularity and global recognition, the show cements Chinasa’s place among the dynamic female voices keeping Nigeria’s media space vibrant, entertaining, and rich with quality content.

Simi Badiru

Simi Badiru is a Nigerian music executive, creative strategist, and co-host of the popular podcast F&S Uncensored. With a career that seamlessly blends creative management and editorial work, she has cemented her place as a force in Nigeria’s entertainment industry.

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In October 2018, Simi co-founded F&S Uncensored with Feyikemi Akin-Bankole. The weekly podcast explores Nigerian pop culture, music, and personal experiences, offering candid commentary on trending topics and their impact on everyday Nigerians. Its authenticity and engaging discussions have earned F&S Uncensored a dedicated following and recognition as one of Africa’s most popular podcasts by Spotify.

Beyond podcasting, Simi has built a dynamic career across music and media. She has curated music for Apple, provided editorial services for Culture Custodian and served as an Account Executive at LSFPR, a Nigerian-owned public relations agency. In her current role as Head of Artist Services & Relationships at TRACE Anglophone West Africa, she focuses on identifying and amplifying emerging African talent on a global scale.

Her impact on the Nigerian music industry was recognized in TurnTable’s 30 Under 30 Power Players in Nigerian Music for 2024, a testament to her contributions to music curation, podcasting, and artist relations.