Mrs Ginika-Tor Williams, the Federal Commissioner representing Enugu State at the Federal Character Commission (FCC), has been named “Most Outstanding Personality of the Year 2025” at the African Iconic Women Recognition Awards (AIWRA) held in Abuja.
In the previous edition of the awards, Mrs Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, First Lady of Lagos State, emerged winner after securing a clear lead over four other first ladies in a public voting exercise.
The AIWRA is organised by Face of Democracy Nigeria (FDN) to honour outstanding women who have made significant contributions to peace-building and national development.
As Nigerian women continue to break barriers across diverse professional fields, the celebrity recognition platform has spotlighted their achievements through a growing number of honours.
Among past international honourees are Mrs Denise Nyakeru Tshisekedi, First Lady of the Democratic Republic of Congo; Rebecca Naa Okaikor Akufo-Addo, First Lady of Ghana; and Madam Claudine Talon, First Lady of the Republic of Benin each recognised in 2024 for their roles in leadership and humanitarian service.
Other prominent Nigerians shortlisted for the 2024 awards included Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central, and Boma Goodhead, member representing Akuku/Asari-Toru Constituency in Rivers State.
In her reaction at the event, Mrs Ginika-Tor Williams said ”The award affirmed her dedication to justice and human rights. She pledged to remain resolute in her advocacy for the inclusion and fair representation of the common man across all levels of governance.
“Being recognised as the Iconic Personality of the Year reminds me that the work is far from over.
You carry on with your duties, not knowing people are watching. This honour is proof that consistency and integrity matter.
It strengthens my resolve to keep projecting positive values, and to remain steadfast in the causes I believe in.”
Quoting the national anthem, she added:
“May the God of creation help us to build a nation where no one is oppressed, so that with peace and plenty, Nigeria may be blessed.”
She described the honour as a joyful moment and a call to greater service:
“I take this recognition as an encouragement to do more. As the saying goes, to whom much is given, much is expected.”
She further urged Nigerian women to support one another rather than compete:
“Regardless of what challenges you face, everyone is striving. But you must be true to yourself and contribute your best to society.”
Another recipient of the evening, Mrs Rabia Usoro, Chief Executive Officer of Hareem Istanbul (Hareem Group) and Co-founder of We Make Magic Studios, stressed the transformative impact of women’s empowerment.
“I have dedicated my life to empowering women. I strive to be a role model and to demonstrate the potential we possess when given the right support.”
Among other honourees was Huriyya Dauda Lawal, wife of the Governor of Zamfara State, who was recognised for her exceptional leadership and advocacy within just two years of assuming public service roles.
