Nigeria marked her 62nd year of Independence last Saturday, October 1st 2022. The Independence Day celebration allows Nigerians to remember our past national heroes who fought for our freedom from British colonial rule. However, after 62 years, many Nigerians have become apathetic towards Independence Day, and some spent the whole day raining curses on the corrupt leaders ruling the nation.

The truth is our great nation has become a shadow of its former glory where many citizens struggle to make ends meet. Insecurity and political and economic instability have become the norm, and unemployment rates have reached an all-time high. Many brilliant youths who promise a better future would rather live outside than remain in the country.

Many senior citizens can recall old Nigeria, where previous national leaders had a great vision to ensure the progress of every citizen in the country. They remember Nigeria, where naira and pounds had equal value. Indeed, as we mourn the old Nigeria, it is important to intensify our efforts to rebuild a new nation ruled with vision, justice and integrity.

We must join hands and elect honourable leaders that will champion the fight against corruption and restore stability in the nation. This is not the time to give up but to have faith in our strength as a great nation. While working in government, few remaining public figures have proven their loyalty and dedication to Nigerians.

Nigerians must wise up and support brave, intelligent leaders with a record of success in government and leadership positions. We must also ignore the smear campaigns, and publicity stunts carried out by the oppressive ruling class who seek to hide the truth. Enough is enough! In the wise words of the great Diezani Alison Madueke,

“Together we must work hard to build a better country and if all you see in the reward is the impact that you, as an individual can make on millions of people in a positive way, that dividend alone is more than enough… Toll onwards and upwards in the land. It will never fail you.”

God bless Nigeria!

Amidst the well-scripted accusations and media slander against her, Madam Diezani Alison Madueke served a substantial role as Petroleum Minister. Being the first woman in this role did not deter her mission to reform the Nigerian oil and gas sector. The former minister championed various initiatives, including the local content act, the oil and gas masterplan, and the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB).

The Gas Supply Emergency Plan is one of the significant projects backed by the former minister. It was designed to correct the misalignment and challenges that affected the nation’s gas-to-power needs. Four months after the project began, there were noticeable improvements in gas supply, including an increase in the volume of power generation and gas supply development initiatives.

According to the former minister, the gas emergency plan aided the expansion of the Escravos-Pipeline System, which served as “the major gas supply artery to the power plants. Major projects were completed, such as the 27kmX24inch permanent gas supply pipeline from Itoki to Olorunshogo through Ewekoro in all of Ogun State.

Additionally, the 56hmX24inch Escravos-Warri gas supply pipeline project was also finalized. It helped to double the pipeline capacity and enhance gas evacuation from Escravos and the 130kmX36inch Oben to Geregu pipeline. Apart from these pipeline projects, Diezani Alison Madueke also worked on the Utorogu, and Ughelli gas plants project under the gas emergency plan.

The Nigerian power sector under Diezani managed to supply gas following all the requirements of Egbin, Sapele PHCN, Delta IV, Olorunshogo, Omotosho PHCN, and NIPP plants. The emergency plan also helped them meet the requirements of two turbines in Geregu and one in Sapele NIPP. Overall, the Gas Emergency Plan ensured continued growth in the Power Ministry to reform the Nigerian power situation.

For the supporters of the Affirmative action, Diezani Alison Madueke and Ngozi Okonjo Iweala as real icons who broke the glass ceiling for women in government. They are famously known for leading extremely vital sectors under former President Goodluck Jonathan’s Cabinet. While Madam Diezani Alison Madueke served as Minister of Petroleum, Mrs Ngozi Okonjo Iweala was the Minister of Finance. They both took charge in these male-dominated sectors and worked to increase internal revenue in Nigeria.

Meanwhile, Madueke and Iweala worked beyond the Nigerian government to gain global relevance. The duo are globally recognized as one of the greatest economic giants to come out of Nigeria. Diezani Alison Madueke was appointed as the first and only female President of OPEC in 2014. In 2019, Ngozi-Okonjo Iweala became the first woman and African Director-General of the WTO.

Indeed these duo are true role models and examples for young women leaders in Nigeria!

The true test of excellence is the ability to remain steadfast in one’s belief despite the setbacks and challenges that may come in the way. You can only earn popular respect when you’re able to shutdown the naysayers and achieve your goals no matter the cost. This is the true legacy of Diezani Alison Madueke, one of Nigeria’s most influential female leaders.

She is a revolutionary leader who previously served in highly competitive roles in Nigerian Ministries. Mrs Alison Madueke was appointed as the Minister of Transportation and Minister of Mines and Steel Development. However, she is known for her leadership of the Oil and Gas Ministry. During her tenure as Petroleum Minister, she implemented several initiatives formulated to revolutionize the Petroleum Industry in Nigeria and to ensure a globally competitive Oil and Gas Sector.

Under Diezani Alison Madueke’s administration, the Nigerian Oil Content Development Act was enacted to influence indigenous participation and local industry development within the oil and gas sector. The act encouraged more Nigerian-owned private companies to invest in the oil industry. It made provision for more exports and local manufacturers within the country. For one, according to the Act, all pipelines used in the sector must be from Nigeria.

The Nigerian Gas Masterplan is also a brainchild of Diezani Alison Madueke. It was worked very stringently, to ensure Nigeria not only moved from gas to power, but also from gas to industry, and to ensure we got value for our gas to export. Napim News reported in 2011 that Diezani Alison Madueke also oversaw the crucial elements of the Nigeria Gas Master Plan's implementation. These were all designed to make the most of the natural resource's potential for economic expansion.

During her tenure, Nigerian had major infrastructure development to encourage more investments. These infrastructure also helped to make the country’s oil and gas sector relevant in global markets. With the deployment of the Usan floating, production, storage, and offloading complex, the Deepwater Oil production was significantly increased, and the integrity of the critical product pipeline infrastructure was restored.

Additionally, In March 2012, under Alison-Madueke, the Fluid Catalytic Cracking Unit at the Kaduna Refinery was commissioned for the first time in eight years. She was also in charge of the Oil and Gas Industrial Park, which gave Nigerians, notably those from Bayelsa, possibilities. Under Diezani's leadership, the project and infrastructure construction received investments totaling more over $100 million. Over 50,000 employment were created by the complex, which served as a manufacturing base for equipment used in the oil and gas industry.

Indeed, it is true that not all heroes wear capes but we must do well to recognize Madam Diezani Alison Madueke’s impact in the Nigerian Oil and Gas sector. However, despite her efforts and strides to ensure development, Diezani Alison Madueke has been subjected to press ridicule. She is being used as a symbol of corruption without any opportunity to defend herself.

Throughout the history of Nigerian government, few leaders have managed a track record of success like Diezani Alison Madueke. She is an exemplary leader who deserves to be celebrated and not persecuted for her achievements in the Nigerian Government.

There was a time in Nigeria when the government implemented working policies that helped to boost both domestic and international markets to gain maximum revenue. Under The Government of President Goodluck Jonathan sought to become a major international player in the global gas market; boost domestic markets and realize maximum revenue with the Gas Master Plan.

The Gas Masterplan ensured that Nigeria moved forward from gas to power and from gas to industry. It also made sure that the economy got good value from gas exports. It is an initiative that aims to accelerate the provision of adequate gas supply for power generation throughout the country.

One of the objectives of the Gas Masterplan is to ensure the sustainable supply of gas to the power sector, review gas pricing to encourage investors by enabling them secure bankable agreements. It also transformed Nigeria into a regional hub for gas based industries due to major investments in the petrochemicals, methanol and fertilizer sectors. Diezani Alison Madueke was a major supporter of this Oil and Gas Masterplan during her tenure as Petroleum Minister. It remains one of the most progressive initiatives that helped to push the Nigerian Oil and Gas sector to world class levels.

Despite the plight of insecurity, unstable economy, corruption, and bad leadership that has plagued our beloved country, Nigeria remains a great nation. Some influential leaders are directly involved in decision-making or influence change in several sectors to ensure the nation’s progress. Here’s our list of some great minds that have played major roles in the politics game in Nigeria.

1. Chief Olusegun Obasanjo

Chief Olusegun Obasanjo is a Nigerian political and military leader. He is a former Head of State (1976-1979) and served as President of Nigeria (1999-2007). Many years after his tenure in office, Obasanjo remains one of the most highly-respected politicians in Nigeria.

He is a prominent member of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), but he publicly represents the interests of all Nigerians. Famously known as “Ebora Owu,” Obasanjo is still one of the greatest politicians in Nigeria whose works are held in high esteem.

2. Bukola Saraki
Bukola Saraki is a famous Nigerian politician and the 13th President of the Senate (2015-2019). He is also a former Governor of Kwara State, leading reforms in agriculture, infrastructure, and health care services. In 2018, Saraki defected from the All Progressives Congress and is currently a People’s Democratic Party member.

3. Babatunde Raji Fashola
Babatunde Raji Fashola was appointed as the Federal Minister of Works and Housing. He is a former two-time Governor of Lagos State from 2007-2017. He is a competent and hardworking leader who puts the needs of his people first.

4. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan
Goodluck Ebele Jonathan served as the President of Nigeria from 2010-2015. His loss in the 2015 elections shocked many people who believed in his plans for Nigeria. Meanwhile, the former President is the first incumbent President to concede defeat in an election. He is widely regarded as a peacekeeper and national leader.

5. Pauline Tallen
Pauline Tallen is a Nigerian politician and the serving Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development. She became Deputy Governor of Plateau in 2007 and the first woman to be a deputy governor in Northern Nigeria. Tallen was called ‘Woman of the Year’ for the African Icon of Our Generation Award.

6. James Onanfe Ibori
James Onanfe Ibori served as Governor of Delta state from 1999 to 2007. He is one of the greatest leaders in the Niger Delta region and a national leader in Nigeria. Ibori is a card-carrying member of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).

7. Chris Ngige
Dr. Chris Ngige is currently the two-term serving Minister of Labor and Employment of Nigeria under President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration. He is one of the founders of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). In 2005 Chris Ngige won the Governorship Election of Anambra State. He is also a former Senator representing Anambra Central.

8. Remi Tinubu
Wife of Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Remi Tinubu is the former first lady of Lagos State. She is famously recognized as the longest-running female Senator in Nigeria after an 11-year tenure. At the International Women’s Day Summit in 2021, Remi Tinubu received the award for most impactful female senator.

9. Rabiu Kwakwanso
Senator Rabiu Kwakwanso is a Nigerian politician and the former Governor of Kano State (1999-2003, 2011-2015). He is one of the leaders of the Kwankwasiya movement, which serves as one of the most powerful and popular political movements in Northern Nigeria.

10. Diezani-Alison Madueke
Undoubtedly, Diezani-Alison Madueke is one of the most influential Nigerian female politicians. She is one of Nigeria's most prominent oil and gas experts, serving as the first female Petroleum Minister (2010-2014). Diezani Alison Madueke is also a former Minister of Transport, Minister of Mines and Steel Development. She is also the first and only female President of the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC).

Gender Inequality in Nigeria is a major problem, and many women are disadvantaged in terms of access to education, employment, wages and justice. Therefore, most industrial sectors are male-dominated, with only a few women rising to the top.

However, many influential women in high-rise positions in male-dominated industries prove that women can get ahead in Nigeria. Former Oil Minister Diezani-Alison Madueke is a well-known woman who has broken the glass ceiling in the Oil and Gas sector.

Her journey into greatness started with her career in Shell, a foremost multinational oil company. Alison Madueke became the first-ever female Executive Director in 2006. From here, she moved to gain more breakthroughs in the public sector while working in the Nigerian Government. With these tips, you can emulate Alison Madueke’s example and get ahead in your workplace.

1. Take Firm Decisions
Women need to be confident and affirmative. You shouldn’t be scared to speak and voice your opinions about issues. During Alison Madueke’s role as Petroleum Minister, she made firm policies despite backlash from the opposition. She has also been popularly known as “a tough nut to crack.”

2. Build a Network of Women
If you plan to advance in your career, you should have a strong support system. It would help if you surrounded yourself with other women leaders supporting your dreams and from whom you can learn. This will help you get ahead, and you can pass through obstacles with your firm support group.

As Alison Madueke shares, “Women are in competition with each other. This is highly unfortunate. Leadership is not about being liked. It is about making tough decisions for the betterment of the whole, and as women rise, they should learn to begin to network among themselves. Creating clusters where other women support each other.”

3. Step Out of Your Comfort Zone
If you want to be a strong women’s leader, you can’t play safe. You must recognize opportunities that will aid advancement in your career and promote yourself. It is important to look past gender roles and keep challenging yourself to do better.

“Don’t wait for your ship to sail into the harbour. Swim out to it and climb onboard. Learn to recognize opportunities when they present themselves. They may turn out to be the most critical opportunities and game-changers in your entire life.”

Ultimately, with these three basic strategies, you can be a successful women’s leader and break the glass ceiling in male-dominated industries.

As Petroleum Minister, Alison Madueke fought for the implementation of the Nigerian Content Act. The Act was signed into law on April 22, 2010 by President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan. It made provisions for the first consideration of Nigerians in the operations of the industry. As a result, it gave rise to the increase in more indigenous operating and services companies.

According to Alison Madueke, the main objective of the Content Act was to “ensure that more Nigerian companies within the oil and gas sector are able to grow and provide jobs particularly technology based jobs and ensure employment generation over the next few years.”

She believed that the Nigerian Content Implementation will lend itself a critical way to the growth of the nation’s economy and development of the citizenry in terms of knowledge, capacity building and employment generation. Alison Madueke was also the chairman of the Nigerian Content Development & Monitoring Board (NCDMB).

In addition, The Board started training 100 craftsmen who will eventually work on the project in order to ensure that young Nigerians participate adequately in it. She said that in addition to 10,000 indirect jobs in subcontracts and supplier opportunities, the project will directly employ over 1000 people.

Ultimately, the Nigerian Content Law resulted in over 30,000 jobs for Nigerian Youths in the oil and gas industry. It encouraged indigenous companies to fabricate more pipelines and plants and due to the Content Act, more Nigerians are at the forefront of the downstream and upstream service sector.

In recent years, a rising tide of women has risen to high leadership positions in a variety of countries and organizations around the world. In truth, female representation in leadership and governance is steadily increasing.

Some women leaders serve as exemplary models for women in politics. These names include Diezani Alison Madueke, Ngozi Okonjo Iweala, and more. Here’s what these icons have to say to the working girl!

1. Aisha Alhassan

Aisha Alhassan was popularly known as ‘Mama Taraba’ and remained one of the true female icons in Nigerian politics. She is the former Minister of Women Affairs under President Mohammadu Buhari’s cabinet from 2015-to 2018. She broke several glass ceilings, including being the first woman elected as a State Governor.

Late Aisha Alhassan’s message for women is,

“As Nigerian women, we should believe in ourselves; we should believe that we can work together, do our best to bring ourselves out of poverty, empower ourselves, and bring ourselves on board in areas of governance, like politics.”

2. Onyeka Onwenu

Onyeka Onwenu is a Nigerian singer/songwriter turned human rights and social activist. She is also one of the most formidable women in Nigerian politics and a card-holding member of the People’s Democratic Party. She is also a former Imo State Council for Arts and Culture chairperson. Onyeka Onwenu is an outspoken advocate for women’s empowerment.

As a speaker at the AB Microfinance Bank conference on International Women’s Day 2020, she openly encouraged all women to dream big, stating,
“If you have a dream and it does not scare you, it is not big enough. Wake up. Be curious. It will help you. Perhaps not today but in the future.”

3. Ngozi Okonjo Iweala

Ngozi Okonjo Iweala, popularly known as NOI, is Nigeria’s two-time minister of Finance and led a leading career in the World Bank as a development economist. In March 2021, Ngozi Okonjo Iweala made history in the 25 years since the prestigious World Trade Organization was established as the first woman and African to hold the highest position of Director-General.

She often stressed the importance of education for women in the fight for gender equality stating,
“Education is so vital to the survival not only of yourself but of your family, of whole villages.”

4. Diezani Alison Madueke

Diezani Alison Madueke is a trailblazer with a leading career of ‘firsts’ in the Nigerian government. She has held several cabinet positions as the first female Minister of Transport, Minister of Mines and Steel Development.

Alison Madueke also served as the first-ever Minister of Petroleum under President Goodluck Jonathan’s administration. In 2014, she broke the record for being the first and only woman appointed as the President of OPEC. Diezani Alison Madueke’s influence spread throughout her career.

She states in an interview with Forbes Africa,
“I believe that as women, it is important to remember that there are many other women who have been shut out of many areas of professional expertise and as you rise up the ladder, always remember to turn back and give a helping hand to other women to rise along with you,”

5. Stella Oduah

Stella Oduah is amongst Nigeria’s foremost female politicians. As one of the few female senators in Nigeria, she is a notable voice in championing women’s empowerment in Nigeria. She openly campaigns for gender equality and actively supports women’s rights programs.

She stated on the 2018 International Women’s Day,
“My message to Nigerian women today is that they should keep hope alive, they must participate fully and should not allow themselves to be discouraged by anybody.”

Did you know that since Nigeria's independence in 1960, there have only been two female governors? In addition, several private and public sectors in Nigeria are male-dominated, and only a few women have managed to break the glass ceiling, setting an example for future women leaders.

Here are some of the most iconic female role models in Nigeria that you should know!

1. Ngozi Okonjo Iweala

Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala is a former Minister of Finance and former Minister of Foreign Affairs. She holds the title of the first woman to serve two terms as Minister of Finance. She worked for 25 years as a development economist at the World Bank before becoming the Managing Director from 2007 - to 2011. Her legacy as Minister of Finance includes developing the country's financial systems with many forward-thinking policies. Okonjo Iweala also founded the first indigenous opinion - Noi Polls. In March 2021, Ngozi Okonjo Iweala became the first female and African director-general of the World Trade Organization (WTO).

2. Amina J. Mohammed

She is the Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations. Also, She works as Chair of the United Nations Sustainable Development Group. From 2015-to 2017, she served as Minister of Environment under President Mohammadu Buhari's administration. During her work in the public sector, she served as a special adviser to four successive Presidents on poverty, public sector reform, and sustainable development. Ms. Amina Mohammed has also served as Adjunct Professor for the Master's in Development Practice Program at Columbia University. She is also the Founder and CEO of Development Policy solutions.

3. Diezani Alison Madueke

Madam Diezani Alison Madueke is Nigeria's First Female Minister of Petroleum. Before her career in the public sector, she was appointed as the First female executive Director of Shell in 2006. Mrs Alison Madueke was also the first woman to lead a National Delegation to the OPEC conference. In 2014, she was appointed as the first and only female President of OPEC. During her tenure as Petroleum Minister, Alison Madueke introduced several initiatives to ensure an oil sector that works for all. She is also the first to receive an honorary degree from the National Defense Academy.

4. Ibukun Awosika

Ibukun Awosika is a Nigerian businesswoman, author and public motivational speaker. She is a former chairman of First Bank, a member of the Nigerian Economic Summit Group, and former Chairperson of the Board of Trustees of Women in Management, Business and Public Service. Ibukun Awosika also founded the Afterschool Graduate Development Center to address the problem of the high rate of unemployment in Nigeria. In 2020, Ibukun Awosika won the Africa Forbes Woman Awards for 'Forbes Woman Africa Chairperson Award'.

5. Oby Ezekwesili

Oby Ezekwesili is one of Nigeria's foremost economic policy experts. She is the former vice president of the World Bank's Africa Region. And she has also served full terms as Federal Minister of Solid Minerals and Federal Minister of Education in Nigeria. She is one of the main advocates of the #Bringbackourgirls campaign and later contested for presidency in the 2019 elections.

Nigeria's oil and gas sector contributes 10% of the national gross domestic product, with petroleum exports accounting for 86% of the total export revenue. Moreover, since 1971, the country has been a significant part of the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries, with Africa's most potent oil resources. In light of this, there's no doubt that the petroleum industry is one of the most competitive sectors in Nigeria.

After serving two tenures as Minister of Transport and Minister of Steels & Mines Development, Mrs Diezani Alison Madueke resumed office as the Minister of Petroleum under former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan's supervision from 2010-to 2014. She is the first and only woman ever to hold this position, where she brought her expertise and vision to change the industry's narrative and boost investment.

While working in this male-dominated sector, Alison Madueke faced many criticisms and media controversies which she claims challenged her to work harder as the petroleum minister. Mrs Alison Madueke was also the chairman of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC). He worked with many top officials to ensure positive long-term changes in the oil sector.

Her Administration recorded many transformative high points in Nigeria's petroleum industry. However, many critics have declared that the turning point of her tenure began with the passage of the Nigerian Oil & Gas Industry Content Development Bill. As Petroleum Minister, Diezani Alison Madueke championed the enactment of this bill due to her goal to promote indigenous participation and the development of local capacities in the sector.

As a result, it brought about notable growth in the rate of Nigerian-owned exploration, production companies and indigenous entrants for the first time in the nation's history. Most significantly, the Content policy aimed to solve the problem of unemployment in the country. Mrs Alison Madueke stated in an interview with Forbes Africa,

"The act has ensured that well over 300,000 jobs have been created because of the trickle-down effect it has had on the economy but more than that, it has brought into play a whole host of new players, across society, into the downstream service sector of the oil and gas industry – from the supply, fabrication of parts for the downstream service sector, fabrication of pipe mills, a massive rise in ownership of rigs and marine gold vessels for use in the oil and gas sector. It has given Nigerians first consideration in many areas of the oil and gas sector."

Meanwhile, her tenure faced multiple challenges involving the stability of oil supply, lack of a uniform price regime, and distribution of petroleum products. Still, Alison Madueke remained resolute in her efforts to develop the oil sector.

She fought hard for the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB), stating that it supports a more transparent oil and gas industry which would, in turn, attract more investment. However, despite her efforts, the bill was not passed until November 2021. After that, however, Diezani Alison Madueke initiated the Gas Masterplan, which rigorously sought after Nigeria's move from gas to power and gas to industry, ensuring value for the gas to export.

Furthermore, she targeted a series of initiatives formulated to revolutionize the Petroleum Industry to ensure an internationally competitive oil and gas sector.

Moreso, Alison Madueke cared about implementing substantial reforms to discourage oil fraud and other challenges in her Administration. Under Diezani's leadership, the Petroleum Ministry had to deal with the scourge of illegal refineries, crude oil theft, and the problem of almost 5,000 kilometres of vandalized pipelines, but she stayed steadfast.

She reduced the rate of bunkering from 200,000 to around 60,000 barrels per day during her three years as Minister. Also, the former Minister worked with the President to discourage the license grants and leases without proper due process declaring that it would "leave the door open to political favouritism and corruption.

The Former Minister also contributed more efforts to boost the Gas potential of the country through the Domestic Gas Supply Obligation (DGSO). She established the Domestic Gas Supply Obligation (DGSO) Allocation Model and assigned obligations to the participating Gas Producers. In addition, Mrs Alison Madueke also looked after the Generated Gas Resource Sourcing Data by enforcing a Swapping Mechanism for the effective delivery of Gas to consumers with minimal pipeline infrastructure.

On a final note, it's been almost 8 years since Diezani Alison Madueke resumed office as the Petroleum Minister. Still, she will always be remembered for bringing the Nigerian oil sector into the global limelight. She boldly represented the country at the OPEC conferences. She was eventually elected as the first and only female President of the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries in 2015.

Diezani-Alison Madueke remains one of Nigeria's most significant leaders. Even though it's been eight years since she has worked in a political position, it is essential to discuss this woman's legacy who steered the petroleum ministry, the only sector that generates over 80 per cent of Nigeria's revenue. She worked hard to bring the Nigerian oil and gas sector into the global limelight and ensure its relevance in international communities.

First off, we mustn't fail to note that Mrs Alison Madueke's educational background and initial career enabled her record-breaking career within and outside government work. In Port Harcourt, Rivers State, she was born to Shell executive Chief Frederick Abiye Agama and nurse and midwife Beatrice Oyete Agama (née Porbeni). Frederick Agama is said to have been one of the key figures in forming the Bayelsa state.

Diezani went to Howard University in the United States after studying architecture in England. When she returned to Nigeria in 1992, she joined Shell Petroleum Development Company. She began her career in the estates' division. She earned her MBA from Cambridge University in 2002. She progressed through the ranks at Shell to become the company's first female executive director. Alison-Madueke received an honorary Doctorate in Management Sciences from the Nigerian Defence Academy in Kaduna in September 2011.

Diezani first entered the Nigerian political scene in July 2007, holding three key positions, the first of which was as Transport Minister. She was appointed Minister of Mines and Steel Development in December 2008. Vice-President Goodluck Jonathan, who took over as acting President in February 2010, disbanded the cabinet on March 17, 2010, and swore in a new cabinet on April 6, 2010, with Diezani Alison-Madueke as Minister of Petroleum Resources.

After resuming office in 2011, Mrs Alison Madueke immediately started her mission to reform the Nigerian oil sector and increase its economic advantage to provide a better life for all Nigerian citizens. Meanwhile, hers is the most record-breaking career for any female politician in the Nigerian government.

Her first reformative action was to promote the Nigerian Content Act, which President Goodluck Jonathan signed in April 2010. The purpose of the law is to increase the number of petroleum industry contracts to be awarded to local Nigerian-owned businesses. It also aims to reduce the domination of the petroleum sector by foreign investors.

Fortunately, The Nigerian Content Act proved to be a welcome change for all Nigerians, including rural and poor citizens. It resulted in more than 15,000 direct jobs from the time the act was passed. Also, it provided 10,000 training and attachment opportunities for Nigerians based on the Energy Mix Report of July 2013

Nigerian oil was discovered in 1956, and production began in the late 1950s. Oil exploration became open to foreign corporations in the following decade. The oil industry grew steadily to become a global powerhouse, with some exceptions due to economic constraints.

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) was established in 1977. The state-owned corporation's mission is to regulate and engage in the country's oil industry.

Currently, Nigeria is Africa's largest oil producer. Nigeria is the world's eleventh largest oil producer, with 18 operational pipelines and an average daily production of 1.8 million barrels in 2020. The petroleum industry accounts for around 9% of Nigeria's GDP and nearly 90% of total export value.

However, the Nigerian oil sector is quite volatile with corruption, oil theft, conflicts, and other conflicts. Despite these issues, Diezani Alison Madueke rose to the challenging role of Petroleum Minister under former President Goodluck Jonathan's administration. She remained untouchable and worked hard to reform the oil sector despite many controversies.

Alison-Madueke promised to modernize Nigeria's oil and gas business so that all Nigerians benefited from numerous reforms when she took office as Minister of Petroleum Resources. In April 2010, President Goodluck Jonathan signed the Nigerian Content Act, a measure to increase the amount of petroleum industry contracts allocated to indigenous Nigerian enterprises as a response to foreign operators' dominance of the sector.

This proved to be a positive outcome for the Nigerian economy, creating over 15,000 direct jobs. The Nigerian Content Act provided 10,000 training and attachment opportunities for Nigerians. In addition, she reduced the rate of bunkering from 200,000 to around 60,000 barrels per day during her three years as Minister.

More so, for an administration signposted by controversies, Alison Madueke remained strict and diligent in her duties. Even though she faced media clap-back, she continued to push for the removal of fuel subsidy, claiming that it "poses a huge financial burden on the government, benefits the wealthy disproportionately, and encourages inefficiency, corruption, and diversion of scarce public resources away from investment in critical infrastructure."

Nevertheless, a report by the National Bureau of Statistics revealed that crude oil sales were their highest under the supervision of Diezani Alison Madueke in the Goodluck Ebele Jonathan era between 2009 and 2014. The former President presided over N65 trillion in crude oil output according to the data.

Ultimately, it's been eight years since Mrs. Alison Madueke was the Minister of Petroleum, but her legacy remains. She performed her role as the oil minister diligently. She developed significant initiatives that gained global recognition and welcomed foreign investments. While we look ahead to the future of Nigeria's economy, it's crucial to remember true leaders like Diezani Alison Madueke, who envisioned a better Nigeria for all.

Even years after her appointment and tenure as the Minister of Petroleum Resources in Nigeria, Diezani-Alison Madueke's legacy is still recognized. She came into the limelight for her vision to reform the petroleum sector under the Goodluck Ebele Jonathan administration from 2010-to 2015. Diezani-Alison Madueke was a charismatic, determined leader who helped to ensure the progress of the Nigerian oil sector.

Born and raised in Port Harcourt Rivers, Diezani K. Alison Madueke spent her early childhood and education in Delta, Nigeria, before moving to the US for her university education. She obtained a degree in Architecture from Howard University and returned to work in Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria. At Shell, Alison Madueke rose to the highest positions and became the first female Executive Director in 2006.

Following her respectable career at Shell, she gained national attention with her appointment as the Minister of Transport by the Umaru Musa Yar'adua administration in 2007. She was also Minister of Mines and Steel Development from 2008 - to 2010 while former president Goodluck Ebele Jonathan was acting President.

Considering her expertise and experience in the oil and gas sector, Diezani Alison Madueke became the first-ever female Minister of Petroleum Resources. As Minister, she went hard on her efforts to reform the then poorly managed and utilized crude oil sector. However, there was a lot of controversy concerning her appointment because she was a woman working in a male-dominated industry.

However, the former Minister stood up to the challenge and remained a hard nut to crack. During the GEJ administration, oil accounted for 80% of Nigeria's revenue, and most of these gains were often siphoned into the pockets of corrupt leaders. But, Mrs. Diezani Alison Madueke's demands for transformation and reform got a lot of feedback from many political elites.
Alison Madueke’s Role in the National Content Development Bill
As Petroleum Minister, Alison-Madueke oversaw the revamping and rehabilitation of critical depots oin order to restore petroleum product supply in Nigeria. In addition, Mrs. Diezani Alison-Madueke championed the passing of the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development Bill in her efforts to encourage local businesses.

President Goodluck Jonathan signed the bill into law in 2010, impacting indigenous engagement and the development of local capacities and thereby transforming the face of Nigeria's oil sector at the time. This will ensure that a significant portion of the estimated $20 billion annual industry spending stays in Nigeria, benefiting Nigerians and indigenous Nigerian businesses and service providers.

The Nigerian Content Development Board, NCDMB, which the Honourable Minister of Petroleum Resources chairs, achieved the following under the watchful eye of the President and the Honourable Minister:

Ensured that Exxon Mobil's historical usage of made-in-Nigeria pipelines at its Top – Idoho Offshore field was expanded.

Assured the placement of over 100 kilometers of pipeline orders at SCC Abuja, Nigeria's only pipe manufacturer.

Ensured that in-country fabrication tonnage increased from 1,000,000 in 2009 to 1,200,000 today.

In addition, the Content Development bill aided the development of the Nigerian Oil and Gas Employment and Training Strategy, which resulted in the absorption of over 5000 engineers, geologists, welders, and other skill sets into the industry and served as the foundation for a national talent database.

This resulted in a surplus of 30,000 direct and indirect jobs. Under Alison Madueke's tenure, the Nigerian Content Development Board(NCDMB), approved the Nigerian Content Development Fund, which will be used to invest in oil and gas infrastructure and provide a partial guarantee to service providers and manufacturers.

It also designed the Indigenous Marine Vessel and Offshore Assets Acquisition Strategy to promote genuine Nigerian-owned marine vessels and offshore rigs/equipment in all O&G operations to boost Nigerian participation, empower communities, and maximize Nigerian crew.

It developed an Original Equipment and Local Component Manufacturing Strategy to encourage Nigerian-made materials in the oil and gas industry and ensure the creation of equipment manufacturing units that will employ thousands of Nigerians.
Petroleum Industry Bill
Apart from the Content Development bill, Alison Madueke also maintained interaction with the National Assembly to ensure the passage of the Petroleum Industry Bill (PIB). She claimed that this oil reform legislation would benefit Nigeria in the long run and give a fair Return on Investment.

Mrs. Alison-Madueke added that the PIB offers a flexible fiscal regime that will improve government revenues while also encouraging investment in the petroleum sector, stressing that it allows for a production-based incentive structure that will accommodate all in the long run industry players.

The PIB aims to implement a new tax and royalty regime to boost the government's revenue and disperse more rewards to regular Nigerians. It also seeks to simplify a famously complex legal structure and explain the fiscal terms under which a foreign operator might acquire concessions from and collaborate with the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC)

It includes measures for giving domestic enterprises a larger piece of the production pie. It also aspires to boost the NNPC's credibility by transforming it into a commercially viable, profit-driven business with greater autonomy from the government. However, despite all her efforts, Diezani-Alison Madueke faced major opposition in the Senate, and the bill was eventually postponed.

However, this did not stop her from further actions to revolutionize the petroleum industry. She openly supported the discontinuation of the fuel subsidy, reasoning that "it poses a huge financial burden on the government, disproportionately benefits the wealthy, [and] encourages inefficiency, corruption, and diversion of scarce public resources away from investment in critical infrastructure."

Due to her knowledge and expertise, she often advised the former President on strategies to help restructure the oil and gas industry. For example, she made a major impact by advising the President against granting licenses and leases because it could result in political favoritism and corruption.

Under Diezani's leadership, the Petroleum Ministry dealt with the epidemic of illegal refineries, crude oil theft, and almost 5,000 kilometers of vandalized pipelines. But she remained resolute despite the false reports fueled by many corrupt stakeholders in the oil industry that the law targeted.

Additionally, Alison-Madueke launched the Gas Masterplan, which was meticulously implemented to ensure that Nigeria moved from gas to power and from gas to industry and that our gas was valued for export. This led to a major boom in oil prices and further progress in the oil sector.

Furthermore, To maximize Nigeria's gas potential, the former Minister of Petroleum Resources enacted the Domestic Gas Supply Obligation, DGSO, by developing the Domestic Gas Supply Obligation DGSO Allocation Model and assigning obligations to the various Gas Producers.
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She was in charge of the Generated Gas Resource Sourcing Data and the establishment of a Swapping Mechanism for the efficient transportation of gas to consumers with minimal pipeline infrastructure.

On a final note, Diezani-Alison Madueke has proven herself as a committed leader and revolutionary in Nigeria. Beyond her role as Minister of Petroleum Resources, she was appointed the first female OPEC President in 2015. She made unprecedented changes to the oil and gas sector, eventually making the country internationally relevant in global oil discussions, and setting a good example for future leaders.

Since and before Nigeria's independence in 1960, men have always been at the forefront of politics and national development, leaving women to play secondary roles in government. However, the time has come for women to stand up and be heard even in the wake of racial discrimination.

There has recently been a paradigm shift in Nigerian government and politics championed by female leaders whose ambition and grit have created more opportunities for women in government. One of such heroes of female empowerment is Diezani- Alison Madueke, Nigeria's first female Minister of Petroleum Resources.

Diezani-Alison Madueke is the daughter of Chief Federick Abiye Agama, and she's married to retired Admiral Alison Madueke, a former Chief of Naval Staff. She had her early and secondary education in Nigeria and went abroad to further her learning. After graduating from Howard University with a degree in Architecture, she returned to Nigeria.

Like most women in her time, Diezani-Alison Madueke faced many challenges working in a predominantly male sector. She started her career in Shell Petroleum Corporation. She worked as an Architectural consultant in the estates' area of the Shell Lagos Branch corporation.

Throughout her career in Shell, Diezani remained steadfast in her journey and rose to the highest positions in her organization. Allison Madueke was awarded a top spot on the British Foreign and Commonwealth Chevening Scholarship in 2002. She also completed her MBA at Cambridge University and returned to Nigeria in 2003.

Diezani-Alison Madueke held the Head of Civil Infrastructures position and was eventually promoted to the Head of Corporate Issues and Crisis Management Unit. She was also made Lead Joint Ventures Representation Adviser in 2004. Her ambition and determination drove her work even as she moved forward.

Eventually, Alison Madueke became the first female Executive Director of Shell Petroleum Corporation in 2007. She is highly regarded as one of Nigeria's foremost oil and gas exports. On her appointment as Shell's Executive Director, she shared that she had to change her mode of thinking while working in a male dominated sector.

Furthermore, Mrs Alison Madueke's outstanding track record laid the ground for her many successes working in the Nigerian government. She first climbed the political terrain in 2007, where she held a significant position as Nigeria's first Transport Minister. And by December 2008, she was named the Minister of Mines and Steel Development, where President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan became acting president.

Moreover, serving as a major highlight in her career, Diezani-Alison Madueke was appointed as the first female Minister of Petroleum Resources in 2011 under the GEL administration. She helped Nigeria form a globally competitive oil sector with her high qualifications. It allowed the country to participate in global discussions and increase national revenue.

As petroleum minister, Alison Madueke was in charge of the revamping and rehabilitation of essential depots to restore Nigeria's petroleum product supply.

Nigeria exported nearly one million barrels per day to the United States in 2010, accounting for 9% of total crude oil and petroleum product imports in the US and more than 40% of Nigerian exports. According to the National Bureau of Statistics, Nigeria's crude oil sales peaked between 2009 and 2014 during Alison Madueke's stint as petroleum minister.

She was also in charge of the Oil and Gas Industrial Park, which provided jobs for Nigerians, particularly those from Bayelsa. Under Diezani's leadership, over $100 million was invested in infrastructure construction. Over 50,000 employment were created due to the plant, which was used to manufacture components for oil and gas industry equipment.

Furthermore, she is highly regarded as an inspiration for young women in politics in Nigeria. With every ‘first’ she increased hope for gender equality. She ended gender-based discrimination in Nigeria's private and public organizations. Mrs Alison Madueke also spoke out as an advocate for women's empowerment.

In an interview with Forbes Women Africa, she emphasized her support for women's empowerment. She stated, "I believe that as women, it is important to remember that there are many other women who have been shut out of many areas of professional expertise and as you rise the ladder, always remember to turn back and give a helping hand to other women to rise along with you."

During the International Day celebration in 2015, the British commonwealth government recognized her role as one of the women who 'make it happen.' In 2013, she travelled to London for the Women in Government and Politics Conference. She was one of several African woman politicians that represented Nigeria.

During the conference, she emphasized the necessity of gender equality and women's representation in government. She also urged successful women to "bring as many women up the ladder as possible" and set their "petty grievances and idiosyncrasies" aside.

The Forbes Magazine Best of Africa Award In leadership was conferred on her in New York in 2014. Mrs Alison-Madueke dedicated the prize to all women around the world, particularly Nigerian women, during the ceremony, saying that it would motivate her to become more committed to the current changes in the petroleum business.

In addition, Mrs Alison Madueke openly recognized President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan for promoting women's empowerment in Nigeria by appointing many women into his cabinet and other leadership positions. The GEJ administration filled one-third of his cabinet with women, which is more than any previous president.

With the rise of female political leaders like Mrs Alison Madueke, our society has become more accepting of women in government. Young women are now encouraged to pursue their political ambitions and run for the Senate, House of Reps and even governorship positions. More women in politics also help increase government policies that will aid development and women empowerment.

Meanwhile, Diezani-Alison Madueke's successes grew further with her top roles in the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries, OPEC. In 2010, she was the first woman to lead a National Delegation to the OPEC conference. She also worked hard to increase Nigeria's interests in the international community and ensure that the country is relevant in global energy discussions.

Making history as the first female President of OPEC, Mrs Alison Madueke proved that she was made to record firsts. She competed in male dominated sectors and ensured that her voice was heard even when facing gender bias. According to the World Economic Forum, she received an Honorary Doctorate in Management Sciences from the Nigerian Defence Academy.

Generally, Nigeria is a predominantly male society where families and private and government institutions are led mainly by men. Gender inequality is a big issue in our community. There are very few women in Nigerian politics due to religious, social and economic factors. However, there are few solid iconic female leaders whose ambition and determination have helped change this narrative.

Ultimately, Mrs Diezani Alison Madueke managed to break through the glass ceiling and occupied the highest positions while working in both the private and public sectors. Her long record-breaking career has remained a strong figure of women's empowerment and eradication of gender-based workplace discrimination.

Therefore, it is important to acknowledge her role in allowing more young women to climb the ladder of success despite several biases. Alison Madueke proved to be one of the most ambitious female leaders in history. With her strong educational background and long work experience as a petroleum expert. Alison Madueke has proved that she deserves a seat at the table.

It's also essential that she has helped to draw awareness of important issues like the girl child
and women empowerment. Following her career, it's evident that Alison Madueke has contributed to the growth of women in politics. There's no doubt that she deserves to be celebrated as a political hero promoting positive development, especially for women in politics.

In light of the gender disparities and prejudice against women in both private and government sectors, the ratio of women in top leadership positions is small compared to men. Although gender inequality is an issue almost everywhere globally, it is more prevalent in Nigeria. Due to religious beliefs and traditional culture, many people still oppose the idea of women in power. However, one woman set out to change this dogma.

Diezani-Allison Madueke is right up there with names like Stella Aduah, Sandra Oby-Ezekwesili, and Ngozi Okonjo Iweala, all women inspirations for aspiring young female professionals. Driven by ambition and determination, Alison Madueke led a record-breaking career of firsts, which sets her apart as one of Nigeria's most prominent women leaders.
Undeterred by the societal limitations placed against women, Alison Madueke has been committed to the path of success. She is one of Nigeria's foremost oil and gas experts with over 15 years of experience in the industry. After completing her Bachelor's program in Architecture abroad at Howard University, she returned to Nigeria and joined Shell Petroleum Development Corporation.
She began her career in Shell with an entry-level position, working in the estates' area of operation and serving as the branch's architectural consultant. She was eventually promoted to Head of Civil Infrastructures. She later became the Head of the Corporate Issues and Crisis Management Unit.
In 2002, Diezani-Alison Madueke was awarded the prestigious British Foreign and Commonwealth Chevening Scholarship. Right after, she decided to further her education at the Judge Business Institute, Cambridge University, UK, where she obtained an MBA in 2003.
Upon returning to Nigeria, she rose to the Lead Joint Ventures Representation Adviser position. After about 15 years of working experience in Shell Petroleum corporations, she became the first woman Executive Director in 2007. And this led brought Alison Madueke into the limelight as one of the brightest minds in the Nigerian Oil and Gas Sector.
Alison often shared that her experience working in a male-dominated sector such as shared taught her the importance of hard work and determination. She took her position seriously and worked through tough challenges to eventually reach the top positions in the organization. Also, she has publicly mentored young women working in male-dominated sectors like herself to change their mode of thinking.
As Executive Director of Shell Corporation, she delegated roles and worked in favor of the company's objectives. But, Alison Madueke's role as Executive Director was short-lived due to her appointment as the Minister of Transport under the late former President, Umaru Musa Yar'Adua, in 2007. Barely a year after, she was again appointed as the Minister of Mines and Steel Development.
In addition, Alison Madueke broke the public record as the first woman minister to hold both positions. Based on her academic background and career, she is publically recognized as one of the most brilliant minds in the Nigerian government. Meanwhile, she added another feather to her cap with her appointment as Nigeria's first female Minister of Petroleum under President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan.
Despite the journalistic smear campaigns, it became evident that no one else was more qualified to take on this significant role. She introduced several initiatives and innovations to revolutionize the Nigerian oil and gas sector and compete globally. Her mission was to advance Nigeria's interests abroad and to protect the country's rights to have its opinions heard in global energy negotiations.
By 2010, Nigeria shipped approximately one million barrels per day to the United States 2010, accounting for 9% of the total crude oil and petroleum product imports in the United States and over 40% of Nigerian exports. According to the National Bureau of Statistics, Nigeria's crude oil sales were highest between 2009 and 2014 during Alison Madueke's tenure as petroleum minister.
Furthermore, Diezani Alison-Madueke championed the passing of the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development Bill as part of her drive to empower local businesses. Former President Goodluck Jonathan signed the bill into law in 2010, impacting indigenous engagement and the development of local capacities and thereby transforming Nigeria's oil sector in general.
Since President Goodluck Jonathan signed the Nigerian Content Act into law on April 22, 2010, Alison Madueke has produced over 15,000 direct jobs in the oil and gas industry. Also, according to an Energy Mix Report from July 3, 2013, the Nigerian Content Act created over 10,000 training and attachment possibilities for Nigerians under former Petroleum Minister Alison Madueke.
Meanwhile, Alison did not have a smooth run throughout her tenure. She faced several challenges that prevented her from achieving her objectives. Under Diezani's leadership, the Petroleum Ministry dealt with the epidemic of illegal refineries and crude oil theft. And almost 5,000 kilometres of vandalized pipelines, but she stayed steadfast.
In a report by Financial Times in 2012, Mrs Alison Madueke received multiple death threats for taking away import licenses from 90 Petroleum Marketers who had no infrastructure in Nigeria in November 2011. She explained the need for new infrastructure in the country. However, she continued in her excellent work, ensuring that Nigeria's oil and gas sector remained relevant even globally.
Nevertheless, there's no doubt that Alison Madueke is a pioneer women's leader. She continued to move past hurdles and gain more successes. In 2010, she became the first woman to lead a National Delegation to the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries, OPEC, Conference in Vienna, Austria.
In September 2011, Mrs Alison Madueke was the first woman to be awarded an Honorary Doctorate Degree in Management Sciences by the Nigerian Defence Academy. Another monumental highlight in her record-breaking career is her appointment as OPEC president. Alison emerged as the first female President at the 2014 OPEC conference in Vienna, Austria.
Soon after, she was appointed as the President of the Gas Exporting Countries Forum (GCEF) at the 16th Ministerial Meeting of the forum in Doha, Qatar. She replaced Libya's Prime Minister for Corporations, Abdourhman Atahar Al-Shirish. Her election also occurred during the OPEC 166th meeting, which was expected to have significant policies to help boost crude oil prices.
The Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries, or OPEC, has as its mission to coordinate and unify the petroleum policies of its Member Countries. It also seeks to stabilize oil markets to ensure an efficient, economic, and regular supply of petroleum to consumers and a steady income for producers. And a fair return on capital for those investing in the petroleum industry.
Ultimately, Alison Madueke is one of Nigeria's most prominent oil and gas moguls. She had an outstanding career in Shell Corporations, which eventually led to her position as Executive Director. As Minister of Petroleum Resources, she introduced multiple initiatives to build a globally competitive oil industry in Nigeria.
Her administration also supported industrial boosts and infrastructural development despite facing multiple threats from the opposition. Based on a report by Pulse ng, Diezani Alison-Madueke forced Nigeria to invest in essential infrastructure, including maritime boats, petroleum jetties, and depots, to the point where over half of the vessels operating in Nigeria are owned by Nigerians.
Overall, the former minister has shown through and through that she's a hard nut to crack. She stood by her policies and worked tirelessly to reform the Nigerian oil and gas sector. Diezani-Alison Madueke added another feather to her cap by becoming the first female President of the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) in 2014.

With her long list of achievements, it's clear that Alison Madueke has nothing to prove as a pioneer women's leader in Nigeria.

The hallmark of greatness is being able to push through oppressive boundaries with sheer force and strong will to reach the apex. Diezani-Alison Madueke remains a force to reckon with, confirming that hardwork and determination is the driving force behind any successful visionary. With her iconic record-breaking career, elegance and charisma, she stands tall as a political hero for Nigerian women in politics.

Diezani-Allison Madueke was born on 6th December 1960 in Port Harcourt, Rivers State. And upon completing her primary and secondary school education in Nigeria, she got her degree in Architecture from Howard University in the US. After finishing her university education, she returned to Nigeria, where she joined Shell Petroleum Development Corporation.

At Shell, she was committed to her role as an architectural consultant and working in the estates' area of operations. Here, Allison experienced firsthand the challenges women face in male-dominated organisations. Regardless, she climbed past bureaucratic steps and rose to lead top positions in the company.

Eventually, after almost fifteen years, Allison Madueke was chosen as the first female Executive Director of Shell in Nigeria in 2006. This was no easy task, and it served as an inspiration to other women in the IOCs who wanted a fairer deal and less discrimination in the workplace. During her tenure as executive director, she paved the way for other women to rise to the top.

She often advised young women she coached while working at Shell to 'adjust their frame of thinking' when working in male-dominated industries. Through strong will and determination, she ensured that she fought discriminatory policies that prevented many women from reaching top positions, even when qualified.

Meanwhile, Allison Madueke's crowning achievement is in her political career. In 2007, she was appointed as a Federal Minister of Transportation. She became the Minister of Mine and Steel Development a year later under former President Musa Yar' Ardua's administration. Throughout her years in government, Allison encouraged women's empowerment and publicly spoke against gender discrimination in the Nigerian government.

While former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan was working as the acting president in 2010, he dissolved the old cabinet. Then, he appointed a new cabinet, with Allison Madueke as the first female minister of petroleum in Nigeria. She was chosen over other male politicians who were all competing for the highly coveted role.

Other achievements of Allison Madueke are, in 2010, she was the first woman to head a country's delegation at the annual Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) conference; she was elected as the First Female President in the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries. Also, she implemented the government policy to provide 10% of petroleum revenue to communities in Nigeria Delta.

Madueke's prominence spread far beyond Africa to Europe, where she gained international recognition and awards. She's a former recipient of the British Chevening scholarship for future leaders of foreign states. On the International Women's Day in 2015, the British government paid tribute to her and other women in government as women who- "make it happen."

In 2013, she attended The Women in Government and Politics Conference in London. She represented Nigeria alongside other African women political leaders. At the conference, she emphasised the importance of gender equality and women's representation in government. She also encouraged successful women to "pull up as many women as possible up the ladder" and put aside their "petty grievances and nuances."

Furthermore, in an interview with Forbes Woman Africa, she emphasised her role as a women's leader, stating, "All the firsts, each time they came, were very humbling and a great privilege. When you realise that the steps you are taking and the glass ceilings you are breaking open the door for other women to enter that area, it is very pleasing to me."

Allison went on to say, "I believe that as women, it is important to remember that there are many other women who have been shut out of many areas of professional expertise and as you rise the ladder, always remember to turn back and give a helping hand to other women to rise along with you." She has also been identified as a role model for aspiring young women in politics.

Throughout Allison Madueke's outstanding professional and political career, she faced several roadblocks and challenges, both political and economic. However, she remained an unstoppable force to reckon with and a political hero for women working in government. She actively championed new developments and innovations in the Nigerian oil and gas sector.

The former Minister of Petroleum Resources, Alison-Madueke, was in charge of a sector beset by operational difficulties. Nigeria is Africa's largest oil producer, and Alison Madueke's office was in charge of the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC), one of the continent's largest state-owned oil companies. The industry is held in high regard as a means of propelling the country ahead.

Her objective when she took over the position was to shift the narrative surrounding Nigeria's key revenue-generating sector and encourage investment. Allison Madueke's tenure has seen some transformative highs in Nigeria's oil and gas sector. Her advocacy for the passing of the Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Content Development Bill demonstrates her commitment to empowering indigenous businesses.

In 2010, Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan signed the bill into law, impacting indigenous participation and the development of local capacities and transforming the face of the industry. It saw a significant increase in indigenous entrants and Nigerian-owned exploration and production businesses, which was a first for the industry. Most importantly, it resulted in the creation of new jobs.

The bottom line is that several industries in Nigeria, like the oil and gas sector, and government organisations, are overly dominated by men. However, in Nigeria, a small group of women is striving to make a difference, and Diezani Alison-Madueke, the Minister of Petroleum, has been a strong role model for these women.

She led the small group of people who took advantage of the 35% affirmative action to enhance women's participation in government and business corporations. Women's power in Nigeria has steadily increased, with two top cabinet seats held by women under the Goodluck Ebele Jonathan administration.

There's no doubt that Alison Madueke is a female icon and role model for women seeking a government career. Several supporters of the 35% affirmative action celebrate the few women who soared above all prejudices to attain high positions in government and Alison's case, doubly so given her background as a former employee of a multinational oil organisation.

In addition, she was present at the United Nations World-Economic Forum Annual Meeting in Davos-Klosters. Here, she actively participated with other world leaders in discussing the roles of female leaders in government and private sectors. The panel agreed on the need for countries and business communities to increase opportunities for women and advance women empowerment.

Former minister Diezani-Alison Madueke also stated that leaders need to develop a thick skin to ensure crisis-oriented and decisive policy-making. While in office, she worked with various women entrepreneurs in the oil and gas sector to increase women's stakes in the industry. Years after she left office, she continues to empower women-led organisations as a strong advocate for gender equality.

According to Diezani-Alison Madueke, African women's status in society is evolving. Her existence is now recognised with a "no-limit vision" of how far she can go. She emphasises the importance of Nigeria's leadership in educating the people on gender issues within and outside government structures. And she has publicly shared her vision to see more women hold strong government positions in Africa.