Abiola Adediran 
The saying goes, “When you empower a woman, you empower a community.” This is especially true when it comes to wealth and philanthropy. Across Nigeria and Africa, women are stepping into their roles as wealth creators and custodians, not only managing financial legacies but also channeling their resources to uplift communities and transform lives. Their unique approach to giving—one rooted in empathy, shared purpose, and sustainability—is changing the face of philanthropy in ways that deserve celebration and emulation.
Women often view wealth through the lens of relationships and impact. For them, it’s not just about accumulating resources but about using those resources to create a ripple effect of change. Studies consistently show that women are more likely than men to donate a significant portion of their wealth to charitable causes, and they tend to focus on initiatives that directly address social challenges such as education, healthcare, and poverty alleviation.
Philanthropy doesn’t always need to make headlines to make an impact. Across Nigeria, countless women are quietly but powerfully driving grassroots efforts to improve their communities. For instance, Dr. Stella Okoli, the founder of Emzor Pharmaceuticals, has been a champion for health-related causes. Her foundation supports initiatives that improve access to healthcare and provide training for medical professionals, ensuring her wealth directly addresses pressing societal needs.
Similarly, Jumoke Adenowo, CEO of AD Consulting, a foremost globally renowned architectural firm in Nigeria, is a strong advocate for youth empowerment and leadership and has been investing in mentoring leaders for over two decades. Through her mentoring programmes and contributions, she’s fostering a new generation of leaders, exemplifying how targeted philanthropy can multiply its impact over time.
The philanthropic efforts of African women extend beyond Nigeria. South Africa’s Precious Moloi-Motsepe, through the Motsepe Foundation, is a shining example of how women use wealth to address systemic issues like education inequality and gender disparity. By focusing on scalable and sustainable projects, Moloi-Motsepe is transforming not just individuals but entire communities.
In Kenya, Dr. Jennifer Riria, founder of Kenya Women Microfinance Bank, has empowered thousands of women through microloans and financial literacy programs. Her work demonstrates that giving back isn’t just about donations—it’s about equipping people with tools and opportunities to change their own lives.
The unique aspect of women’s philanthropy is its focus on creating long-term impact. Women understand the power of collective growth and often build initiatives that promote sustainability, collaboration, and inclusivity. They don’t just give fish—they teach people how to fish and ensure the pond remains viable for generations.
But beyond the practical impact, women’s giving sends a powerful message: wealth is a tool, not an end in itself. It’s a reminder that success isn’t just about what we achieve but about what we contribute to others’ lives.
Giving back doesn’t require a fortune—it begins with a desire to make a difference. Women across all economic strata can engage in impactful giving, whether through time, skills, or financial resources.
Imagine if every woman in Nigeria, regardless of her wealth, committed to mentoring one young girl, funding one child’s education, or supporting one small business. The cumulative effect would be transformative, shaping a future where giving back is woven into the fabric of our society. As women continue to rise as wealth creators and managers, their role in philanthropy will only grow. Their approach—rooted in empathy, sustainability, and community—serves as a blueprint for a better world.
The question is: How can I use what I have to make a difference? Whether it’s big or small, your contribution matters. Let’s continue to build a culture of giving, because when women lead with their hearts, the world truly becomes a better place.
Abiola Adediran is a Family Business Advisor, corporate finance and business strategy expert with nearly 2 decades of work experience that cuts across investment banking, consulting, private equity, wealth and family office management. She is the Founder/Managing Consultant of Midridge International, a pan-African strategy consulting and financial advisory firm. She is also currently a Partner at Genea Family Office.