In commemoration of the 2025 International Women’s Day (IWD) we asked Mass Communication students taking the Media Biographies course to give a shout-out to some accomplished female media professionals they admire and have learnt from while reading about their careers.
Below are some of the responses about Former Managing Director of Telegraph Newspaper, Funke Egbemode, CEO of Women FM, Toun Sonaiya, Publisher of BONews, Blessing Oladunjoye, COO Big Cabal Media, Anita Eboigbe, Former Head of BBC in West Africa, Toyosi Ogunseye, Director, Institute of Continuing Education (ICE), UNILAG, Abigail Ogwezzy, Broadcast Journalist & Administrator, Funke Treasure, Lead Curator, Bazara Media Lab, Kenya, Christine Mungai and the first female broadcaster on WNTV Station, Late Anike Agbaje-Williams.
Amazing women in the media space
Funke Egbemode is an exceptional woman from what I have read.
The fact that her birthday is also Women’s Day means a double celebration for her and all the women like me she inspired.
She rose to the very pinnacle of media excellence by covering the US midterm elections and becoming a commissioner for Information.
Toun Sonaiya is also another exceptional woman that is worth celebrating. She established WFM the first all women’s radio station.
It mustn’t have been easy for her to start a gender-focused radio station in Nigeria but she persevered. She deserves many accolades.
Blessing Oladunloye is also an incredible woman.
Her passion for women and people living with disabilities is very admirable. She like, the other women, was very focused on her goals and achieved them.
Nigerian women have been excelling in every field they enter, especially in the media.
It is impossible for anyone to still think women do not have what it takes to be bosses.
So happy International Women’s Day to all the amazing women in the media space. No matter how known they are, they are all contributing change to this world.
By Aloba Ifedolapo Esther
Pillars of strength, wisdom, and inspiration
This International Women’s Day, I am taking a moment to celebrate three phenomenal women who have profoundly shaped my journey—Anita Eboigbe, Toun Okawale Soniaya, and Toyosi Ogunseye. These women are more than mentors to me; they are pillars of strength, wisdom, and inspiration, and I am beyond grateful to walk in the paths they have carved.
Anita Eboigbe, you have taught me the power of storytelling—not just as a craft but as a tool for impact and change. Your brilliance, depth, and ability to capture the essence of stories inspire me every day. Thank you for always challenging me to think beyond the surface, refine my voice, and tell stories that matter. Your guidance has shaped the way I see the world and my role in it.
Toun Okawale Soniaya, you are a force! Your dedication to amplifying women’s voices in media is nothing short of revolutionary. You have shown me that visibility is power and that our stories deserve to be heard on every platform. Your unwavering support and belief in my potential have given me the confidence to take up space, own my narrative, and push for meaningful change.
Toyosi Ogunseye, your leadership is the gold standard. You exemplify what it means to lead with courage, integrity, and impact. Watching you navigate the media space with excellence and resilience has been one of my greatest learning experiences. You have taught me that challenges are not roadblocks but stepping stones, and for that, I am forever grateful.
Each of you has poured into me in ways that words can’t fully capture. You have given me knowledge, encouragement, and most importantly, the confidence to chase my dreams fearlessly. Because of you, I stand taller, dream bigger, and work harder.
Happy International Women’s Day to you and to all the phenomenal women breaking barriers and changing the world. Your impact is immeasurable, and I am honoured to have you as a mentor.
By: Ajewole Marvellous Shileola
A perfect blend of creativity, hard work, determination and tenacity
The celebration of International Women’s Day wouldn’t be complete without saluting our very own trailblazing female journalists. Powerful women like Anita Eboigbe, Christine Mungai, Professor Abigail Ogwezzy and many other notable female journalists have raised the bar high in the media world today.
They have unarguably made a mark on the media landscape, inspiring and paving the way for future generations. Personally, I’m deeply inspired by these women, who embody the perfect blend of creativity,hardwork ,determination and tenacity.
They’re the reason I’m more determined than ever to pursue a career in media, with the hope that one day, I too will become a strong force to be reckoned with. Let’s take a moment to applaud these exceptional women who have constantly proven that a woman’s strength knows no bounds.
By Ihejieto Amarachi Victoria
Barrier breakers, change-makers
Journalism isn’t just about sharing news—it’s about honesty, fairness, and making a difference in our communities. As a media student, I’m inspired by women who break barriers and use their work to support real change.
Funke Treasure: I’m especially inspired by Funke Treasure. She is a passionate social advocate who uses journalism to uplift women. By founding the Sanitary Pads Media Campaign, she has helped provide sanitary pads to girls in rural communities. Her work shows that journalism can be a powerful tool for supporting those in need.
Toyosi Ogunseye: Ogunseye is another role model for me. Although she began her academic journey in biochemistry, her passion led her into journalism. She became the youngest female editor for The Punch newspaper, proving that no matter where you start, following your curiosity can lead to amazing success.
Christine Mungai: Christine Mungai’s career spans topics like politics, security, business, and the arts. Her ambition is huge, and her work shows that nothing is too big for a woman to tackle. She was awarded the prestigious Nieman Fellowship at Harvard University, recognizing her outstanding contributions to journalism. Her ability to curate media events lights the way for future media professionals in shaping African journalism.
Blessing Oladunjoye: Oladunjoye is a dedicated journalist and media consultant who champions the causes of women, persons with disabilities, and children. Her focus on social advocacy for the less privileged has taken her to places she never imagined, inspiring me to believe that journalism can create a real, positive impact on society.
By: Joshua Esther
An inspiration to others
On this special occasion of International Women’s Day, I would like to celebrate Anita Egboigbe, a remarkable woman whose work in the media and communication continues to inspire and empower others. Through journalism and storytelling, she sheds light on important issues and empowers others with knowledge.
Beyond her career, she is a strong advocate for women, children, and vulnerable communities. Her dedication and impact prove that women can lead, break barriers, and create meaningful change.
Thank you, Anita, for your hard work and inspiration.
By: Alli Samiat
A lesson in perseverance and determination
Funke Egbemode is a renowned media personality. Born in Osun state she has had an illustrious 30-year career, working with prominent media outlets and serving as President of Nigerian Guild of Editors. Her career is a lesson that perseverance and determination can lead to breaking barriers.
By: A.K Adunola
Rest in peace legend
I want to give a big shout out to the first female broadcaster and the first face to appear on WNTV , late Mrs. Agbaje-Williams. She laid the foundation of future generations of female broadcaster in Nigeria. On IWD we celebrate your legacy and power of women in media! #Accelerate Action for representation in journalism, broadcasting and beyond. Rest in peace legend.
Anita’s journey is nothing short of inspiring