The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Lagos (UNILAG), Professor Folasade Ogunsola, OON, FAS, has been recognized with the prestigious Wonder Woman Award by The Guardian Newspapers, affirming her as a leading voice in academia across Africa.
Professor Ogunsola emerged the top nominee in the “Business of Academia and Learning” category, following a highly competitive voting process. She was one of eight women honoured at the 2025 Wonder Women Awards (WWA), an initiative of the Guardian Women Festival designed to spotlight women making transformational impact in diverse fields.
Anita Athena Ibru, Chief Strategy Officer (Global) of The Guardian and co-creator of the festival, praised the honourees at the awards presentation ceremony held on Monday, May 19, 2025, at the newspaper’s Rutam House headquarters in Lagos. According to her, the platform seeks to foster synergy among women changemakers while celebrating their courage and innovation.
In her acceptance speech, Professor Ogunsola described the award as both gratifying and a renewed call to service. “This is a celebration of the tireless strides of women who have broken barriers,” she said. “For me, this award is a reminder to keep pushing the boundaries—especially in academia—where leadership, inclusion and innovation must intersect.”
Speaking live on Guardian TV, the renowned professor of Medical Microbiology highlighted how the recognition also reflects the progress at UNILAG, despite national economic challenges. “This is a testament to our pursuit of the Future-Ready UNILAG vision, making our university a beacon of hope for the future of higher education in Nigeria and beyond,” she added.
Ogunsola, the first female Vice-Chancellor of UNILAG, encouraged young women not to retreat in the face of challenges. “It’s time to conquer fear, rise beyond limitations, and lead in our various spheres,” she urged.
Other recipients of the 2025 Wonder Women Awards include:
Isabella Adediji – The Business of Culture
Blessing Oyeleye Adesiyan – The Business of Care and Wellness
Oluseye Alayande – The Business of Finance and Investment
Aisha Mumuni – The Business of Technology
Oluwatoyin Maiden – The Business of Public Service
Dr. Elizabeth Jack-Rich – The Business of Philanthropy
The Wonder Women Awards aligns with a growing movement across Africa to recognize and uplift female leaders whose work is changing the face of education, entrepreneurship, governance, and public service.
Founded in 1983, The Guardian remains one of Nigeria’s leading independent newspapers committed to balanced reporting and progressive social change.
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