The former Ekiti State First Lady, Erelu Bisi Adeleye-Fayemi, has been recognised among 100 leading African women for the 2026 Africa Women of Impact Awards by Arise News Channels. The award is in commemoration of International Women’s Day.

The Women of Impact celebrates women whose leadership, achievements, and service have shaped institutions, driven progress, and influenced policy across the continent.

Adeleye‑Fayemi’s inclusion underscores her decades-long commitment to advancing the rights, education, and economic empowerment of women and girls in Nigeria and beyond.

A seasoned activist, educator, and policy advocate, Adeleye‑Fayemi has worked across civil society and government platforms to champion gender equality, economic empowerment, and public policy reform. Her advocacy has included strengthening legal frameworks for vulnerable populations and promoting programmes that expand opportunities for women and youth, positioning her as a respected voice in African feminist networks and gender policy forums.

Her impact in Ekiti State is particularly notable. As First Lady, she founded the Ekiti Development Foundation, an NGO focused on women’s economic and social development, and spearheaded initiatives addressing health, gender-based violence, and community upliftment. These pioneering programmes not only transformed lives at the grassroots level but also set benchmarks for gender equality and social welfare initiatives in the region.

Adeleye‑Fayemi’s recognition in the Africa Women of Impact Awards series highlights her legacy as a trailblazer for women’s empowerment and a model of transformative leadership.

As the continent celebrates her achievements, her story serves as inspiration for future generations of leaders, demonstrating the power of vision, commitment, and purposeful action in shaping society and driving sustainable change.