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Michelle Obama once said, “There is no limit to what women can accomplish.” This statement rang true at the ARISE Women of Impact Gala 2025, a night dedicated to honouring 80 trailblazing women who have left an indelible mark across various industries. Organised by ARISE News Channel, the prestigious event served as the grand finale of International Women’s Month.
The Eko Convention Center in Lagos played host to the glamourous affair, welcoming an elite gathering of dignitaries, industry leaders, and global icons. Notable guests included former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Stanbic IBTC founder Atedo Peterside, business mogul Chief Razak Okoya, and supermodel Naomi Campbell.
The evening commenced with a spectacular dance performance, setting the tone for an unforgettable celebration. Following this, Eka and Efe Obaigbena, daughters of ARISE Group Chairman Nduka Obaigbena, took the stage to deliver a rousing speech filled with commendation and empowerment. Their words resonated deeply, reminding the audience of the power of resilience and innovation in shaping Nigeria’s future.
A documentary titled “Nigeria and the Women Who Shaped Her” was screened, paying tribute to the pioneering Nigerian women whose contributions have significantly influenced the nation’s progress.
The heart of the evening was the award presentation, where the remarkable Women of Impact 2025 were celebrated. Awards were presented in batches of ten, with each recipient delivering brief but heartfelt acceptance speeches.
Among the honourees were:
Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan – A dedicated advocate for women’s empowerment and governance.
Bolanle Austen-Peters – A visionary in the arts and entertainment industry.
Shade Okoya – A business leader and philanthropist.
Ngozi Alaegbu and Ojinika Okpe – Renowned media personalities shaping the news landscape.
Nike Davies-Okundaye – The legendary artist and founder of Nike Art Gallery.
Naomi Campbell, who was honoured for her contributions to fashion and global advocacy, received her award from Governor Sanwo-Olu.
An emotional highlight of the night came from Nike Davies, who expressed that while she had received numerous accolades in her lifetime, this particular award felt the most special of them all.
The evening was further elevated by electrifying performances from Nigerian music stars Teni and Asa.
Teni delivered a vibrant set, performing crowd favourites such as Uyo Meyo, Billionaire, For You, and her latest single Money. In a heartwarming moment, she approached a cameraman mid-performance, asked for his name, and serenaded him with a song, saying it was “the little she could do to make his day.” Her spontaneous act earned a thunderous round of applause.
Asa later took the stage, dazzling in a stunning green dress paired with red shoes. With her band backing her, she delivered soulful renditions of Bibanke, So Beautiful, Eyo, Show You Off, and concluded the night with her classic hit Jailer. Her powerful performance had the audience on their feet, singing along in unity.
As the night drew to a close, the atmosphere was one of joy, inspiration, and celebration. The ARISE Women of Impact Gala 2025 not only recognised the achievements of extraordinary women but also reinforced the importance of their contributions in shaping Nigeria’s present and future.
For those in attendance, it was a night to remember—an evening where history, empowerment, and entertainment seamlessly intertwined to honour the unstoppable force of women in society.
Melissa Enoch
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