Obiageli Ezekwesili

Date of Birth: April 28, 1963

Zodiac Sign: Taurus

Biography

Obiageli “Oby” Ezekwesili is a distinguished Nigerian chartered accountant and public servant renowned for her extensive contributions to governance, anti-corruption efforts, and education advocacy. Born in Lagos, Nigeria, Ezekwesili has had a storied career marked by significant roles in both national and international spheres. She co-founded Transparency International, where she served as one of the pioneer directors. Her commitment to transparency and accountability earned her a prominent position as Nigeria’s Minister of Solid Minerals and later as Minister of Education during President Olusegun Obasanjo’s administration. Ezekwesili’s tenure as Minister of Education was particularly notable for her reform efforts aimed at improving the quality of education in Nigeria. She also served as the Vice President for the Africa Region at the World Bank, where she championed various developmental projects across the continent. Known for her vocal advocacy, Ezekwesili was a co-convener of the #BringBackOurGirls campaign, which sought to rescue schoolgirls kidnapped by Boko Haram in 2014.

5 Interesting Facts about Obiageli Ezekwesili

1. Obiageli Ezekwesili was a co-founder of Transparency International, a global non-governmental organization that combats corruption.

2. She earned a Master’s degree in International Law and Diplomacy from the University of Lagos and another Master’s in Public Administration from the Kennedy School of Government, Harvard University.

3. Ezekwesili was named one of the “100 Most Influential People in the World” by TIME magazine in 2015.

4. She was the Vice President for the Africa Region at the World Bank from May 2007 to May 2012.

5. Ezekwesili ran for the office of President of Nigeria during the 2019 general elections but later withdrew her candidacy.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Obiageli Ezekwesili

1. “Without transparency, you can’t have accountability, and without accountability, you can’t have good governance.”

2. “Education is the most powerful tool which you can use to change the world.”

3. “We must raise a generation of Nigerians who will no longer tolerate corruption.”

4. “Leadership is not about position; it is about action.”

5. “The future of Africa lies in the hands of its women and youth.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

As of the latest available information, Obiageli Ezekwesili’s highest net worth is estimated to be around $1 million.

Children

Obiageli Ezekwesili has three children: Chuba Ezekwesili, Chinwe Ezekwesili, and Amara Ezekwesili. She is known for her commitment to family values and often speaks about the importance of balancing professional and personal life.