Ondo State, known as the Sunshine State, is home to men and women who have made their marks nationally and internationally. Among them are women whose achievements continue to inspire. From politics to education, media, the arts, and humanitarian service, these women prove that Ondo nurtures greatness.
Here are seven outstanding female role models whose backgrounds are deeply connected to Ondo State.
1. Folayegbe Akintunde-Ighodalo (1923–2005)
Folayegbe Akintunde-Ighodalo was born in Okeigbo, Ondo State, at a time when women rarely pursued higher education. She studied at the University of Ibadan and later at Oxford University in the UK. In 1968, she became Nigeria’s first female permanent secretary in the Federal Ministry of Education. Her Okeigbo roots shaped her early resilience and strong belief in women’s capabilities. She later served on the boards of Nigeria Airways and other institutions, making her one of Ondo’s earliest role models for women in leadership.
2. Mo Abudu
Mosunmola Abudu, fondly called Mo Abudu, was born in London but grew up in Ondo Town, Ondo State, where she was raised by her grandparents after losing her father. She often credits Ondo with giving her the discipline and traditional values that shaped her. Today, she is the founder of EbonyLife Media, a global African content powerhouse. Forbes has described Mo Abudu as “Africa’s Most Successful Woman” and has consistently used her platform to tell African stories with global appeal. Her Ondo upbringing adds a cultural richness to her creativity and resilience.
3. Omotola Jalade Ekeinde
Omotola Jalade, popularly called Omosexy, was born in Lagos but traces her roots to Ondo State through her parents. She grew up in a modest family and started modeling as a teenager before becoming one of Nollywood’s most recognized stars. With over 300 films and international awards to her credit, she was named one of TIME Magazine’s 100 Most Influential People in 2013. Proud of her Ondo heritage, she has also used her fame to speak on maternal health, youth empowerment, and social justice.
You May Also Like
- 7 Notable Female Role Models From Ekiti State
- 5 Notable Female Role Models from Akwa Ibom
- 7 Notable Female Role Models from Kogi State
- 7 Notable Female Role Models from Lagos state
- 7 Notable Female Role Models from Edo State
4. Chinwe Chukwuogo-Roy (1952–2012)
Chinwe Chukwuogo-Roy was born in Ondo Town to parents who were traders. She spent her early years in Ondo before moving abroad for studies. She later became one of the most respected African artists in the UK, winning commissions from governments and royalty. In 2002, she made history by painting Queen Elizabeth II’s official Golden Jubilee portrait, a feat that placed her among the most celebrated African artists globally. Her Ondo roots and upbringing grounded her in the vibrant Yoruba culture that inspired much of her art.
Also Read
5. Janet Febisola Adeyemi
Janet Adeyemi was born in Ondo State and trained as a civil engineer, one of the first women in her field at the time. She represented Ondo State in Nigeria’s House of Representatives between 1999 and 2003. Beyond politics, she is the President of Women in Mining Nigeria, where she advocates for gender inclusion in extractive industries. Growing up in Ondo gave her firsthand experience of community struggles, which later shaped her political passion for education, rural development, and women’s empowerment.
6. Jumoke Akindele-Ajulo
Born in Okitipupa, Ondo State, Jumoke Akindele was raised in a close-knit family that valued education. She studied law at Obafemi Awolowo University before venturing into politics. In 2015, she became the first female Speaker of the Ondo State House of Assembly, a groundbreaking achievement in the state’s political history. Her journey from Okitipupa to becoming Speaker reflects the determination and courage that Ondo women are known for. She remains an advocate for women’s participation in governance.
7. Christie Ade Ajayi
Christie Ade Ajayi was born in Ile-Oluji, Ondo State, and grew up in a time when access to education for girls was limited. She defied the odds to become one of Nigeria’s foremost educators and children’s authors. Passionate about early childhood education, she wrote several storybooks and textbooks tailored for African children. Her Ile-Oluji roots influenced her focus on community-based education and literacy. Today, her contributions continue to shape how Nigerian children learn from their earliest years.
These women, drawn from different parts of Ondo State – Okeigbo, Ondo Town, Okitipupa, and Ile-Oluji – demonstrate that the state’s daughters have not only excelled but also paved the way for others. Their stories are proof that Ondo women are as resilient as they are inspiring.
Amazons 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻