Forbes, the renowned US business magazine, has unveiled its prestigious list of the ‘world’s 100 most powerful women in 2023,’ featuring Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Director-General of the World Trade Organisation (WTO), and Mo Abudu, the prominent media entrepreneur.
Utilizing a comprehensive approach that encompassed four key metrics — money, media, impact, and spheres of influence — Forbes compiled the impressive lineup, acknowledging women who not only wield financial power but also make substantial global impacts.
Ranked 87th and 98th respectively, Okonjo-Iweala and Abudu secured their spots among influential figures such as Beyoncé, Rihanna, Taylor Swift, Oprah Winfrey, and Kamala Harris.
The 2023 list spotlights women from diverse domains, spanning business (37), technology (9), finance (19), media & entertainment (12), politics & policy (18), and philanthropy (5).
Nigeria’s presence on Forbes’ list is not novel. In 2020, Okonjo-Iweala was recognized as Forbes’ ‘African woman of the year.’ Moreover, she’s been a consistent inclusion on Forbes’ ‘most powerful women’ roster in 2021 and 2022.
A seasoned economist and international development expert, Okonjo-Iweala’s illustrious career spans over 30 years, including significant tenures at the World Bank and as Nigeria’s Finance Minister, where she advocated for inclusive economic planning, particularly considering women’s unique perspectives.
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In March 2021, Okonjo-Iweala achieved a historic milestone as the first woman and African to serve as the WTO’s Director-General. Her tenure at the WTO has been marked by advocacy for impactful policies, notably fisheries subsidies in developing countries that significantly affect women’s lives.
Mo Abudu, a rising figure in the media industry, made her debut on the list in 2022, securing the 99th position. Renowned as a media mogul and philanthropist, Abudu’s trailblazing initiatives at Ebony Life Media have revolutionized Nollywood, producing hit movies like ‘The Wedding Party,’ ‘The Royal Hibiscus Hotel,’ ‘Chief Daddy,’ ‘Your Excellency,’ and ‘Òlòtūré.’
Forbes’ methodology in selecting these influential women underscores the significance of their financial clout, media presence, societal impact, and overall global influence. The recognition highlights the extraordinary contributions of these women shaping the global landscape across various sectors.
