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5 Nigerians Who Have Achieved Success On A Global Scale

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globally successful Nigerians

Nigeria, popularly known as the ‘Giant of Africa’ is home to millions of talented and globally successful Nigerians. These individuals are known for their determination, resilience, and creativity. 

They’ve fought to excel in their different fields and to become a global success. From business and entertainment to science and politics, Nigerians are achieving remarkable success and leaving their footprints on the map of the world. 

In the spirit of Nigeria’s Independence Day celebration, we’ll be discussing a few of these globally successful Nigerians. Their stories and journeys are inspiring and prove that you can achieve anything you put your mind to.

1. Ngozi Okonja Iweala

globally successful Nigerians

Ngozi Okonja-Iweala is a Nigerian economist and international development expert. She went from being the Minister of Finance in Nigeria, to being the managing director of World Bank. Okonja-Iweala also helped improve transparency and accountability in the Nigerian financial sector.  She is currently serving as the Director General of the World Trade Organization. 

Some of her outstanding achievements: are

  • The first woman and first African to lead the World Trade Organisation. 
  • Instrumental in securing debt relief for Nigeria.
  • Played a key role in shaping global health. 
  • Being on Forbes’ 50 Most Powerful Women in the World and
  • Time’s 100 Most Influential People in the World.

Okonjo-Iweala is highly respected for her leadership and advocacy for gender equality, education, and healthcare. She is indeed a force to be reckoned with.

2. Ayodeji Ibrahim Balogun (Wizkid)

Ayo Balogun popularly known as Wizkid, needs no introduction. He is a Nigerian singer and songwriter who began his music career at age 11 and gained popularity in Nigeria before breaking into the international scene. He has collaborated with top artists like Beyonce, Kanye West, and Chris Brown; just to mention a few. 

Wizkid has won numerous awards, including a Grammy Award, BET Awards, and MOBO Awards. He has been named one of the most influential African artists of all time, inspiring a new generation of musicians.

Wizkid’s success has paved the way for other African artists to break into the global music industry.

3. Aliko Dangote 

I mean, this list will be incomplete if Dangote doesn’t make an appearance.

Aliko Dangote is a Nigerian businessman and entrepreneur who is widely recognized as one of the most successful entrepreneurs in Africa. His net worth is estimated to be over $20 billion, making him the richest person in Africa and one of the richest in the world.

Dangote has interests in various sectors, including cement, sugar, flour, oil, and gas. He is committed to giving back to society through his numerous charity foundations. Overall, Aliko Dangote is highly respected all over Africa as an influential business tycoon.

4. Tony Elumelu

globally successful Nigerians

Tony Elumelu is a Nigerian economist, entrepreneur, and philanthropist. He is the CEO of UBA and the founder of Heirs Holdings. Elumelu has interests in power, oil and gas, and finance. Over the years, he has given support to African entrepreneurs with training, funding, and mentorship.

He is globally recognized and has received numerous awards which include:

    – African Business Leader of the Year.

    – Forbes Africa Person of the Year.

    – Nigerian National Honour of Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic.

 Tony Elumelu is a respected and influential figure in Africa and beyond.

5. Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie 

globally successful Nigerians

Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie is considered one of the Nigerians who have achieved success on a global scale for several reasons. Apart from being a prominent Feminist and an acclaimed author, Chimamanda has received global recognition and awards – ranging from the Orange Prize Award to the National Book Critics Circle Award and a MacArthur Fellowship. Many of her books are translated into many languages.

One specific noteworthy thing about Adichie is how she uses every opportunity to promote Nigerian culture and literature globally. Evidently, she is a role model and inspiration to many young Nigerians and Africans, showing that success is possible with hard work and dedication. 

Adichie’s work and journey has a profound impact on society and, inspires all young people to find their voices, pursue their dreams, and be the change they want to see in the world. 

The globally successful Nigerians featured in this article are just a handful. However, they are a testament to the country’s talent, resilience, and determination and the true meaning of the Nigerian spirit (aka Naija no dey carry last). Their achievements serve as a reminder that with hard work and dedication, we can all aspire to be much more and achieve greatness.

Nesiama Fasola
Nesiama Fasola
Nesiama (Ness) Fasola is a community manager, tech enthusiast, writer and full time hopeless romantic. She loves to scribble words in a bid to make sense of the jumble of thoughts, ideas and emotions that constantly plague her mind. At her leisure, you can either find her nose-deep in a book, brewing coffee or poking around in her garden.

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