By Chioma Vivian James
The recent appointment of Nigerian disability rights advocate and social entrepreneur Lois Auta to the board of the Mariam Babangida National Centre for Women Development has drawn widespread attention to her extraordinary journey of courage, resilience, and transformational leadership. For many, the appointment is not just another recognition of her achievements, but a powerful symbol of progress for disability inclusion, women’s representation, and equal participation in leadership spaces in Nigeria.
As a polio survivor and wheelchair user, Lois has spent years challenging stereotypes, breaking barriers, and creating opportunities for women and girls with disabilities who are often excluded from social, political, and economic participation. Through her advocacy, she has become a respected global voice on disability rights and inclusive development, inspiring conversations around accessibility, empowerment, and social justice both within Africa and internationally.
As the Founder and Global President of the Network of Women with Disabilities and the Founder and Executive Director of the Cedar Seed Foundation, Lois has emerged as one of Africa’s leading advocates for disability inclusion and social impact leadership. Her work focuses on advancing equal opportunities, promoting accessibility, and ensuring that persons with disabilities especially women and girls are given the visibility, support, and representation they deserve.
A graduate of the University of Abuja with a degree in Public Administration, Lois has further strengthened her expertise through professional certifications in global business, sustainability, project management, and personal branding. Through her advocacy and leadership initiatives, she continues to champion inclusive policies and accessible opportunities across communities.
Lois’ remarkable leadership has earned her several prestigious international recognitions. She is a Young Global Leader of the World Economic Forum, a Mandela Washington Fellow, a Dangote Fellow, and an Ashoka Changemaker Scholar. In 2019, she made history as the first woman with a disability to contest for a seat in Nigeria’s House of Representatives among more than 4,000 candidates a milestone widely celebrated as a bold step toward inclusive political participation in the country.
Her inspiring journey has been featured by leading international organizations and media platforms, including the United Nations, UN Women, the World Health Organization, BBC, and Al Jazeera, further amplifying her impact and advocacy on the global stage.
Beyond advocacy, Lois continues to influence policy and social development through her on several national and international advisory boards. Her dedication to disability inclusion, accessibility, leadership development, and human rights continues to inspire a new generation of changemakers across Africa and beyond.
Through courage, determination, and visionary leadership, Lois Auta is not only transforming lives but also reshaping the global conversation on disability rights, women’s empowerment, and inclusive development.
The management and team of Phenomenal People Magazine join other admirers of Ms Lois Auta to celebrate her over this appointment to the Board of the Maryam Babangida National Centre For Women Development.