Four Nigerians have been named among 15 influential personalities on Forbes Africa’s inaugural “The Icons” list, unveiled in the magazine’s October–November 2026 edition to mark its 15th anniversary.
The Nigerian honourees are Aliko Dangote, president of Dangote Group; Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, director-general of the World Trade Organization (WTO); Mo Abudu, founder and chief executive of EbonyLife Group; and singer Burna Boy.
According to The PUNCH in a report published on Sunday, October 11, 2026, the selection recognises individuals whose ideas, innovations and voices have made a lasting impact on Africa’s development and international standing.
The magazine’s anniversary issue brings together business leaders, public figures and cultural personalities whose contributions have influenced the continent across different sectors.
Dangote represents African industrial development and private enterprise, while Okonjo-Iweala’s inclusion reflects her role in international economic governance. Abudu represents the continent’s media and entertainment industry, while Burna Boy, whose real name is Damini Ebunoluwa Ogulu, represents the global reach of Nigerian music.
The other personalities on the list include South African businessman Adrian Gore, president of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) Patrice Motsepe, Zimbabwean entrepreneur Strive Masiyiwa and former Liberian president Ellen Johnson Sirleaf.
Also featured are Nobel Prize-winning novelist Abdulrazak Gurnah, Ethiopian athletics legend Haile Gebrselassie, former Ivorian footballer Didier Drogba and South African businessman Johann Rupert.
Kenyan-Mexican actor Lupita Nyong’o, South African comedian Trevor Noah and Beninese musician Angélique Kidjo complete the 15-person selection.
Forbes Africa, in the description of its October–November anniversary edition, said the list celebrates individuals whose ideas and voices have had a positive and lasting influence on Africa’s past, present and future.
The magazine’s selection methodology, as reported by The PUNCH, considered global recognition, legacy, measurable economic, social or cultural influence, and contributions to Africa’s growth narrative.
The editorial team also consulted established industry figures, experts and professionals to assess the honourees’ impact and legacy.
The names are presented in no particular order, with the selection spanning business, public service, literature, sport, music and entertainment.
The inclusion of four Nigerians highlights the country’s presence across African industry, global economic leadership and cultural exports as Forbes Africa marks 15 years of covering the continent’s business and social development.
