As part of Women’s History Month, StateCraft Inc the Governance arm of Red for Africa is proud to announce the unveiling of the Women Behind The State (WBTS) 50 Under 50—a distinguished recognition of 50 exceptional women under the age of 50 who are driving governance, industries, and development communications.

Now in its third year, Women Behind The State (WBTS) remains dedicated to spotlighting the women whose expertise and influence shape policies, institutions, and industries. As the governance and political communications arm of RED Media Africa, StateCraft Inc. has led critical conversations on leadership and social impact across Africa. This year’s honourees—ranging from government advisers and policymakers to business executives and advocates for social change—exemplify the depth of women’s contributions to Nigeria’s progress, driving transformation at every level of society.

Speaking on the significance of the WBTS initiative, Ayodeji Razaq, CEO of RED Media Africa, stated, “At RED Media Africa, we believe that visibility is power. The WBTS 50 Under 50 list is more than a recognition—it is a movement to amplify the contributions of extraordinary women whose work often goes unnoticed. By celebrating them, we inspire the next generation of female leaders and reaffirm that leadership thrives at every level—both seen and unseen.”

The WBTS 50 Under 50 list serves as a call to action for greater inclusion, representation, and acknowledgement of the women who make governance and development possible, often without public recognition. 

Chinyere Akataobi, Business Lead at StateCraftInc., emphasised the impact of these women, “The women on this list are the architects of change, shaping policy, business, and society with their expertise and leadership. It is our duty to celebrate them, not just as individuals but as a collective force pushing Nigeria towards progress.”

The WBTS list highlights women who have made tangible impacts across Nigerian society. It features influential figures in the public sector, such as Prof. Suwaiba Sai’du Ahmad, Mrs. Olu A. Verheijen, Blossom Ozurumba-Ehiarinmwian, Hadizat Oyewumi, Olubunmi Kuku, Tola Odeyemi, and Jenifer Adighije. It also celebrates dynamic leaders in the private sector, including Ms. Adesua Dozie, Irene Nwaukwa, Chioma Momah, and Omotayo Aghedo. Additionally, the list honors dedicated social activists like Toyosi Akerele-Ogunsiji, Faridah Yahya, Ufuoma Nnamdi Udeh, and Oluwafunke Adeoye, amongst others. These women have left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s trajectory.

The full WBTS 50 Under 50 list will be unveiled on March 21, 2025, reaffirming RED Media Africa’s commitment to championing the women whose contributions and leadership continue to shape Nigeria’s future.