Tiwa Savage Honoured at the 2025 Forbes Women Africa Leading Women Summit
Afrobeats icon Tiwa Savage was among the distinguished personalities celebrated at the 2025 Forbes Women Africa Leading Women Summit held in South Africa. The globally acclaimed singer received the prestigious Media Icon Award, joining a remarkable list of honourees that included prominent leaders, innovators, and change-makers.
Savage was recognised for her outstanding contributions to the music industry, a career that has cemented her place as one of the most influential African artists of the 21st century. Her award reflects her exceptional ability to bridge cultures, influence, and break barriers within the global music scene, making her one of Nigeria’s brightest stars.
At the event, other remarkable women were honoured for their achievements. Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, the Director General of the World Trade Organization and former Nigerian Minister of Finance, received the Lifetime Achievement Award for her long-standing impact on global economic policy. The Youth Icon Award went to Nissi Ogulu, a rising star in the music industry and sibling to superstar Burna Boy, while Dr. Arunmah Oteh, the former Director-General of the Nigerian Securities and Exchange Commission, was recognised as the Change Maker of the Decade.
The complete list of honourees at the 2025 Forbes Africa Women Icon Awards highlights a diverse range of women across various sectors. Some of the key awards included:
- Lifetime Achievement Award – Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala
- Social Impact Award – Wanjira Mathai
- Young Achiever Award – Eniola Shokunbi
- Next Generation Award – Hephzibah Akinwale
- Youth Icon Award – Nissi Ogulu
- Media Icon Award – Tiwa Savage
- Academic Excellence Award – Dr. Adriana Marais
- Sports Award – Sue Destombes
- Visionary Ally Award – Soul Deng
- Entertainer of the Year Award – Sarah Hassan
- Excellence in Entertainment Award – Minnie Dlamini
- Technology and Innovation Award – Jessica Mshama
- Champion of Change Award – Dr. Glenda Gray
- Businesswoman Award – Rita Zwane
- Champion of Entertainment Promotion Award – Tholsi Pillay
- Change Maker of the Decade Award – Arunma Oteh
For Tiwa Savage, this recognition adds to her already impressive career. Her musical journey has seen her rise from the Nigerian music scene to become an international force, with numerous hits and accolades to her name. Known for her powerful voice and ability to mix various genres, Tiwa has not only entertained millions worldwide but has also been a role model for female empowerment within the entertainment industry.
Recently, Tiwa Savage kicked off 2025 with a bang, releasing her highly anticipated single “Commitment,” featuring British R&B legend Craig David. The collaboration showcases Savage’s remarkable vocal range alongside Craig David, whose popularity in Nigeria stems from his timeless hits like “7 Days” and “Walking Away” from his 2000 album Born to Win.
In addition to her musical achievements, Tiwa Savage’s career milestones include being the first Nigerian artist to perform at the British Royal Coronation of King Charles III. This performance marked a historic moment for African music, as Tiwa represented not only Nigeria but the entire African continent on one of the most prestigious stages in the world.
As Tiwa Savage continues to break new ground, her recognition at the 2025 Forbes Women Africa Leading Women Summit serves as yet another testament to her hard work, talent, and dedication.
