How Three Communicators Were Shortlisted for African Iconic Women Recognition Awards (AIWRA)
The organisers of the annual African Iconic Women Recognition Awards (AIWRA) have honoured three outstanding women—Mrs. Rabia Usoro, Hajia Hakama Sidi Ali, and Josephine S. Mahachi-Kruggel—for their exemplary achievements in communication and public engagement.
AIWRA, an initiative of Face of Democracy Nigeria (FDN), celebrates the remarkable contributions of women across Africa who have distinguished themselves in peacebuilding, leadership, and national development.
The prestigious award ceremony was held at the Congress Hall of the Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja, and featured honorees from various professional backgrounds whose work has significantly impacted their communities and sectors.
In the citation titled “Honouring Brilliance in Brand Power,” Mrs. Rabia Usoro was recognised as the African Iconic Woman in Marketing and Brand Development of the Year. A marketing trailblazer, she was commended for her “creative leadership, bold strategies, and unwavering impact in shaping powerful narratives and unforgettable brands across Africa.” The citation praised her as a visionary who “doesn’t just market — she moves markets.”
Hajia Hakama Sidi Ali, Acting Director of Corporate Communications at the Central Bank of Nigeria, received accolades for her excellence in public communication and national service. Her citation, “Breaking Barriers and Shaping Narratives,” described her as “a powerful voice in finance and governance whose leadership continues to inspire a generation of women across Africa.”
Josephine S. Mahachi-Kruggel was honoured as the Emerging African Iconic Female Journalist of the Year. She was hailed as “a voice of truth, courage, and excellence” who has consistently championed accountability and amplified marginalized voices through impactful journalism. The citation lauded her fearless storytelling and commitment to the African narrative, stating that “with a pen as powerful as her voice, she continues to inspire generations of women in media.”
Other prominent recipients at the 2025 awards included:
Engr. Dr. Abisoye Coker Odusote – for her groundbreaking achievements in engineering and technological innovation.
Mrs. Zubaida Umar – for her leadership in promoting gender equality and excellence in public service.
Chief Mrs. Mary-Maudline Uzoamaka Nwifuru – First Lady of Ebonyi State, honoured for her grassroots initiatives in women’s empowerment.
Hajiya Huriyya Dauda Lawal – First Lady of Zamfara State, recognised for her commitment to women and children’s welfare.
Hon. Nkeiruka Onyejeocha – Minister of Women Affairs, for her relentless advocacy for women’s rights and legislative reforms.
Falmata Babagana Zulum – First Lady of Borno State, for her humanitarian efforts supporting displaced persons.
Hajiya Nana Yahaya – First Lady of Jigawa State, for her impactful work on women and girl-child education and empowerment.
These recognitions highlight the growing influence of African women leaders across sectors, reaffirming AIWRA’s commitment to celebrating excellence, inspiring change, and amplifying the voices of women driving transformative development on the continent.
