2026 AIWRA:
Okpebholo-Anani Wins Most Egalitarian First Lady Award
The Coordinator, office of the first lady, Edo State, Edesili Okpebholo-Anani has clinched the “Most Egalitarian First Lady Award” in the 2026 African Iconic Women Recognition Awards.
Other Key awardees at the 15th edition of the award series held in Abuja included Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, Namibian President, Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, Ghana’s First Lady, Lordina Mahama, as well as DRC’s First Lady, Denise Nyakeru Tshisekedi.
The 2026 African Iconic Women Recognition Awards honored exceptional female leaders, policymakers, and advocates across Africa.
Speaking after receiving the award, Okpebholo-Anani described the recognition as proof that women’s contributions are increasingly being acknowledged in governance and society.
She said the award symbolises progress for women, adding that female voices are now being heard more strongly in decision-making spaces.
“We are breaking ceilings and shattering barriers. Women are being heard,” she said.
She emphasised the need for more mentorship opportunities for women and increased representation of women in leadership and governance structures.
Okpebholo-Anani also praised the administration of Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, for supporting women’s participation in political and leadership roles, noting that women are increasingly visible in the state’s political processes.
Also speaking at the event, Uzoka-Anite expressed appreciation after receiving multiple recognitions, including Best Performing Minister of the Year and African Iconic Minister of the Year. She said the awards came as a surprise, noting that she was unaware of the nomination process until seeing it circulate on social media.
According to her, the recognition reflects public appreciation of hard work and dedication in public service.
“I feel recognised and fulfilled. It crowns the effort and hard work put in,” she said.
Uzoka-Anite urged women and young girls to pursue excellence through discipline and consistency, stressing that success requires sustained effort and commitment.
“There is no shortcut to success. Keep doing the hard work and go the extra mile,” she added.
She also highlighted the increasing visibility of women in leadership across Africa, noting that women continue to play central roles in families, communities and national development.
The event also featured goodwill messages from dignitaries who praised the growing impact of women in leadership across the continent.
Organised by Fajag Concept, the 2026 edition of the African Iconic Women Recognition Awards was themed “Elevate at 15th” and focused on celebrating women breaking barriers in various sectors.
Founder of the organisation, Olufunsho Ajagbonna, said the awards aim to honour exceptional women across Africa in leadership, entrepreneurship, innovation and public service.
He added that the initiative continues to strengthen conversations around women’s leadership, inclusion and Africa’s development agenda.
