Nigeria has emerged as the best-represented country in New African Magazine’s 2025 “100 Most Influential Africans” list, with 21 Nigerians recognized in the fields of business, culture, sports, technology, media and social influence.
The annual list honors Africans whose actions, leadership and creativity have shaped policy, markets, culture and public discourse over the past year.
Business, Finance and Economic Leadership
Aliko Dangote
Dangote, Africa’s richest man and chairman of the Dangote Group, remains a defining force in Africa’s industrialization, with the Dangote refinery continuing to reshape energy and manufacturing dynamics across West Africa.
Olayemi Cardoso
The Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria is known for leading financial reforms and market-driven policies during one of Nigeria’s most difficult economic periods.
Benedict Orama
As President and Chairman of Afreximbank, Mr. Orama has played a central role in expanding trade finance, industrial support and intra-African commerce under the AfCFTA framework.
Samaira Zubair
The African Finance Corporation CEO is credited with mobilizing capital for infrastructure and industrial projects critical to Africa’s long-term development.
Tunde Olanrewaju
Mr. Olanrewaju, a senior partner at McKinsey & Company, is known for shaping corporate strategy, digital transformation and leadership thinking across Africa.
arts, culture and entertainment
Funke Akindele
One of Nollywood’s most commercially successful figures, Akindele continues to redefine African storytelling through his record-breaking film and television work.
Kemi Adetiba
The creator of King of Boys continues to be one of Africa’s most influential creative directors, blending political themes with mainstream entertainment.
Thames (Temilade Opunii)
The Grammy Award-winning singer has cemented Nigeria’s place in global pop culture, collaborating with international stars while maintaining her unique African sound.
Cynthia Erivo
The Nigerian-British actress and singer is known for her global influence in film, theater and music, elevating African prominence on the world stage.
Nathaniel Bassey
A leading gospel artist, Bassey’s music ministry has grown into a continental faith movement with strong digital and youth engagement.
Ariyon Bakare
The Nigerian-British actor has a growing profile in international film and television, and is known for his contribution to increasing African cultural visibility.
nene cal
The Turner Prize-winning sculptor is known for reshaping global conversations about disability, art, and inclusion through her work. Dangote and Cardoso top New African Magazine’s 2025 list of 100 Most Influential Africans as 21 Nigerians
Media, ideas and social influence
chudae jidongwo
A prominent media entrepreneur, Jideonwo is known for shaping public conversations around leadership, vulnerability, and African identity through interviews and storytelling platforms.
Shola Brunson
Known for his youth-focused social entrepreneurship, Branson’s work spans education, advocacy, and community development.
Asisat Oshoala
Oshoala, Africa’s most decorated female footballer, was honored for her achievements on the pitch and for championing the development of women’s sport.
Technology, innovation and global leadership
Tomiwa Aladekomo
A technology entrepreneur and digital economy advocate, Aladekomo is known for championing innovation-led growth and youth participation in technology.
Akuna Cook
A Nigerian-American business leader, she is known for her influence in global business leadership and inclusion advocacy.
Ade Famoti
Mr. Famoti is recognized for his growing influence in brand strategy, business leadership and cross-sector initiatives.
Oladele Oyekunle
Oyekunle is recognized for his professional leadership and policy-related influence in shaping institutional and development conversations.
