Money holds power, but how it is earned tells a greater story. Some build empires from oil, while others carve a name in media, fashion, or banking. The richest women in Nigeria have taken different paths, yet they share one thing—an unshakable drive to succeed.
Folorunsho Alakija, once a secretary, now controls billions. Mo Abudu turned storytelling into an empire. Linda Ikeji built her fortune from a blog many dismissed as a hobby. These women, along with others, have rewritten the rules of business and wealth. Their stories inspire millions, proving that wealth is not handed down—it is created.
This article highlights the richest women in Nigeria, their industries, and how they built their fortunes. Some inherited businesses but expanded them into thriving enterprises. Others started with nothing and climbed to the top. Every name on this list has left a mark that will not fade.
What Defines the Richest Women in Nigeria?
Wealth is more than money in the bank. Influence, investments, and business success set these women apart. The rankings consider net worth, business achievements, and impact across industries.
Oil magnates, banking executives, and media giants feature on this list. Many of these women lead companies that employ thousands. Their ventures shape economies and create opportunities for countless others.
Some names stand out for their global reach, while others thrive within Africa. Regardless of industry, they have all built legacies through determination, intelligence, and strategy.
The Richest Women in Nigeria
Here are the first ten richest women in Nigeria and how they earned their place among the financial elite.
1. Folorunsho Alakija – The Oil Tycoon Among the Richest Women in Nigeria
Folorunsho Alakija did not start in oil. She worked as a secretary before moving into fashion, where she built Supreme Stitches. While designing clothes for high-profile clients, she made connections that led her into the oil industry.
Her company, Famfa Oil, secured a lucrative oil exploration licence in the 1990s. When major corporations wanted a stake in her oil block, she refused to sell. Instead, she fought to retain her rights, winning a legal battle that ensured her fortune.
With vast investments in oil, real estate, and philanthropy, she stands as one of the richest women in Nigeria.
2. Hajia Bola Shagaya – A Strategic Investor Among the Richest Women in Nigeria
Bola Shagaya started in banking but saw greater opportunities in oil. She founded Bolmus Group International, a business empire with interests in oil, banking, real estate, and photography.
Her real estate portfolio spans luxury properties in Africa and Europe. Over the years, she has built relationships with key figures in business and government, allowing her to expand her reach.
Her ability to identify profitable ventures and take bold risks has cemented her place among the richest women in Nigeria.
3. Daisy Danjuma – A Political and Business Leader Among the Richest Women in Nigeria
Daisy Danjuma gained national recognition as a senator but built her wealth through investments. Married to Theophilus Danjuma, a billionaire in oil and gas, she played a key role in growing their family’s financial empire.
She serves as Vice Chairman of SAPETRO, an oil exploration company. Her influence extends beyond business, as she has championed policies that empower women in leadership.
Her investments, leadership roles, and political career place her among the richest women in Nigeria.
4. Fifi Ejindu – The Architect Who Became One of the Richest Women in Nigeria
Fifi Ejindu combined creativity with business to build a fortune. A trained architect, she founded Starcrest Group, a company involved in oil and gas, real estate, and construction.
Her luxurious real estate developments cater to high-net-worth individuals across Africa. She also invests in art and culture, promoting African heritage globally.
Her diverse business interests have secured her a place among the richest women in Nigeria.
5. Stella Oduah – A Businesswoman and Politician Among the Richest Women in Nigeria
Stella Oduah made her mark in aviation and politics. She founded Sea Petroleum and Gas Company Limited (SPG) before serving as Minister of Aviation.
Her influence in business and government helped her secure profitable deals in oil and real estate. Despite facing controversies, she remains a powerful figure in business and politics.
Her wealth and investments confirm her status as one of the richest women in Nigeria.
6. Mo Abudu – The Media Visionary Among the Richest Women in Nigeria
Mo Abudu turned storytelling into a billion-naira empire. She founded EbonyLife Media, producing films and television content that reshaped African entertainment.
Her company has secured partnerships with major global studios, bringing African stories to the world. With ventures in television, film production, and streaming, she has built a powerful media empire.
Her success in entertainment makes her one of the richest women in Nigeria.
7. Linda Ikeji – A Digital Entrepreneur Among the Richest Women in Nigeria
Linda Ikeji started blogging when few believed in digital media. What began as a personal blog grew into one of Africa’s most-visited websites, generating massive advertising revenue.
She expanded into online television and other media ventures, building a multi-million-naira business. Her success has inspired many young entrepreneurs to pursue digital media careers.
Her fortune places her firmly among the richest women in Nigeria.
8. Bimbo Alase – The Retail Giant Among the Richest Women in Nigeria
Bimbo Alase built her fortune in luxury furniture. She founded Leatherworld, one of the largest furniture companies catering to high-end clients.
Her ability to create a brand known for quality and exclusivity set her apart in the industry. With multiple retail outlets and a strong reputation, she continues to dominate the market.
Her success in retail secures her a place among the richest women in Nigeria.
9. Adenike Ogunlesi – The Fashion Mogul Among the Richest Women in Nigeria
Adenike Ogunlesi turned a simple idea into a thriving business. She founded Ruff ‘n’ Tumble, a leading children’s clothing brand known for its quality and creativity.
From a small tailoring business, she expanded into a nationwide fashion brand with multiple outlets. Her ability to build a successful business in retail places her among the richest women in Nigeria.
10. Sola David-Borha – A Banking Executive Among the Richest Women in Nigeria
Sola David-Borha built her career in banking, rising to become the CEO of Stanbic IBTC Holdings. Under her leadership, the company expanded, increasing its influence in Africa’s financial sector.
She later joined Standard Bank Group, where she played a key role in investment strategies across the continent. Her decades of experience and financial expertise have secured her wealth and influence.
Her success in banking makes her one of the richest women in Nigeria.
11. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala – The Economist Who Shaped Global Finance
Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala made history as the first female Director-General of the World Trade Organisation. Before that, she served as Nigeria’s Minister of Finance, playing a key role in debt relief negotiations.
Her influence in global economic policies, along with advisory roles in top financial institutions, has brought her both wealth and international recognition.
12. Ibukun Awosika – A Leader in Banking and Manufacturing
Ibukun Awosika became the first female Chairperson of First Bank, one of Africa’s oldest financial institutions. Her success extends beyond banking—she is also the founder of The Chair Centre Group, a manufacturing company.
Her investments in finance, real estate, and leadership training have secured her a strong financial position.
13. Nike Davies-Okundaye – A Cultural Entrepreneur with a Global Brand
Nike Davies-Okundaye built an empire through art. She revived traditional textile production and turned it into a profitable business. Today, her brand is known worldwide, with art galleries in major cities.
Her ability to blend tradition with modern commerce has made her one of the most respected figures in the art industry.
14. Toyin Saraki – Wealth, Philanthropy, and Healthcare Investments
Toyin Saraki, wife of former Senate President Bukola Saraki, has built her wealth through healthcare investments and philanthropy. She leads the Wellbeing Foundation, which focuses on maternal and child health.
Beyond charity, she holds stakes in various businesses, particularly in real estate and healthcare services.
15. Zainab Ashadu – The Entrepreneur Behind a Luxury Handbag Brand
Zainab Ashadu transformed leather craftsmanship into a premium fashion brand. Her company, Zashadu, produces high-end handbags that sell in luxury markets worldwide.
Her brand’s international reach and commitment to ethical production have positioned her among Nigeria’s successful businesswomen.
16. Tara Fela-Durotoye – A Beauty Industry Pioneer
Tara Fela-Durotoye started House of Tara with a simple idea—to create quality beauty products for African women. Today, her brand is a leading force in the cosmetics industry, with a nationwide presence.
Her impact goes beyond business, as she has trained thousands of aspiring entrepreneurs in the beauty sector.
17. Betty Irabor – Media and Publishing Success
Betty Irabor turned her passion for storytelling into a successful media company. She founded Genevieve Magazine, one of the longest-running lifestyle publications in Nigeria.
Through publishing, brand partnerships, and speaking engagements, she has built a strong financial portfolio.
18. Uju Ifejika – A Top Executive in the Oil Industry
Uju Ifejika stands among the most successful women in oil and gas. As CEO of Brittania-U, an exploration and production company, she has built a career in a male-dominated sector.
Her leadership has secured major contracts and expanded the company’s reach, making her one of the wealthiest businesswomen in the country.
19. Amaka Ndoma-Egba – A Key Investor in Real Estate and Law
Amaka Ndoma-Egba combines legal expertise with smart investments. She owns several properties across Nigeria and has built a strong presence in commercial real estate.
Her legal background has also helped her structure high-value business deals.
20. Yemisi Edun – A Finance Expert Leading One of the Country’s Largest Banks
Yemisi Edun made history as the first female Managing Director of First City Monument Bank (FCMB). She has spent decades in banking, specialising in risk management and financial strategy.
Her leadership in one of the country’s top financial institutions has secured her place among successful business executives.
Key Takeaways on the Richest Women in Nigeria
Success does not follow one path. Each of these women built wealth through vision, strategy, and resilience. Some started businesses from the ground up, while others expanded existing ventures into global brands. Here are the key lessons from their journeys:
1. Opportunities Exist in Every Industry
The richest women in Nigeria have found success in oil, banking, fashion, media, and real estate. No sector is off-limits for those willing to learn, take risks, and innovate.
2. Relationships and Networks Matter
Many of these women built strong connections that helped them secure opportunities. Whether in business or politics, strategic relationships play a crucial role in long-term success.
3. Hard Work and Consistency Build Wealth
Quick riches are rare. From Folorunsho Alakija to Linda Ikeji, each woman spent years perfecting her craft, growing her business, and making strategic decisions.
4. Investing Wisely Secures the Future
Real estate, banking, and oil remain some of the most profitable sectors. Many on this list reinvest their profits into assets that continue to grow in value.
5. Impact Creates Lasting Influence
Beyond making money, these women support communities through philanthropy, job creation, and mentorship. True wealth comes from leaving a legacy that benefits others.
Conclusion
Wealth is not built overnight. The richest women in Nigeria have spent years shaping industries, breaking barriers, and creating opportunities. Some overcame obstacles, while others took bold steps to expand businesses beyond expectations. Their journeys prove that financial success comes from persistence, strategy, and smart decision-making.
Each woman on this list has changed the way business is done, inspiring the next generation of entrepreneurs and professionals. Whether in oil, finance, media, or fashion, they continue to influence economies and create lasting legacies.
Success leaves clues. What lessons from these women can you apply in your own career or business? Share your thoughts in the comments.
Looking for business insights, strategies, and resources? Entrepreneurs.ng can help you make smart financial decisions:
- Register your business today with Entrepreneurs.ng’s Business Registration Services.
- Tell Your Brand Story on Entrepreneurs.ng, let’s showcase your brand to our global audience.
- Need help with your marketing strategy? Get a Comprehensive Marketing and Sales Plan here.
- Sign up for our Entrepreneurs Success Blueprint Programme to learn how to start and scale your business in just 30 days.
- Book our one-on-one consulting and speak to an expert about structuring and growing your business.
- Visit our shop for business plan templates and other valuable resources to guide you.
- Get our Employee-Employer Super Bundle NDA templates to legally protect your business and workforce.
- Join over 20,000 entrepreneurs by signing up for our newsletter and receiving valuable business insights.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Richest Women in Nigeria
1. Who is the richest woman in Nigeria?
Folorunsho Alakija remains the richest woman in Nigeria, with a fortune built from oil, real estate, and fashion. She is the Vice Chairperson of Famfa Oil, one of the most lucrative indigenous oil companies.
2. How do the richest women in Nigeria make their money?
Their wealth comes from industries such as oil and gas, banking, real estate, media, fashion, and manufacturing. Many started businesses, while others expanded family enterprises into billion-naira ventures.
3. Are there self-made women on the list?
Yes. Women like Linda Ikeji, Mo Abudu, and Tara Fela-Durotoye built their businesses from scratch without inherited wealth. Their success came from innovation, consistency, and seizing opportunities in growing industries.
4. What can young entrepreneurs learn from these women?
Key lessons include hard work, strategic networking, smart investments, and resilience. Many of these women faced setbacks but stayed focused on their goals.
5. How do these women give back to society?
Philanthropy plays a major role in their success stories. They fund education, healthcare, entrepreneurship programs, and mentorship to support future leaders.
6. Can anyone become wealthy by following their examples?
Building wealth takes time, but their journeys show that success is possible with the right skills, determination, and business strategies. Learning from them can help aspiring entrepreneurs make informed decisions.
