The awards were presented during the Festival’s closing ceremony under the ‘Seven Women Wonder’ category, which convened leaders from business, philanthropy, and civil society to celebrate women driving meaningful change across industries.
The recognition underscores UBA’s ongoing commitment to empowering women and creating platforms for them to innovate, lead, and shape the future of banking on the continent.
Speaking at the ceremony, Chioma Mang shared, “I share this honour with every woman around the world, women in banking and finance, and especially women at UBA, working tirelessly to reshape Africa’s financial landscape.”
Michelle Nwoga added, “This award underscores what happens when women lead with empathy and execution. True customer experience begins with believing in the people you serve, and the outcome easily is excellence.”
Other winners of the Seven Women Wonder category included:
- Bukola Smith, CEO, FSDH Merchant Bank
- Mobolaji Adeniyi, President, Nigerian Institute of Architects
- Debby Odutayo, Broadcaster
- Jennifer Obayuwana, Executive Director, Polo Luxury
- Nana Maidugi, Head of Sustainability and ESG, NSIA
- Bukola Moyo Babajide, Founder, Female Techpreneur Founders Lounge
- Adenike Macaulay, CEO, Wakanow
The 2026 edition of the Guardian Woman Festival concluded a month-long celebration of leadership, impact, and purpose, culminating in a focus on collective social action. The Festival also honoured charities and institutions whose work continues to positively transform communities across Nigeria and beyond.
At the closing ceremony, Festival Co-convener Anita Athena Ibru highlighted a deliberate shift toward recognising institutions alongside individuals. “It is important to recognise these teams of women quietly working behind the scenes. This serves as a reminder that when women unite, regardless of position, if they stay aligned with purpose, great things can happen. Women are often the key drivers behind charitable causes and advocates for social change,” she said.
This year’s Festival expanded its recognition framework to spotlight female-led philanthropy. The honoured organisations included: Small World, Child Advocacy Health Initiative, Global Survivors Fund, Mama’s Breakfast Club, and ARA NINI Health.