Koko Maxwella 
Obiageli Ezekwesili
ABUJA, Nigeria – Former Nigerian minister and governance advocate, Mrs. Obiageli Ezekwesili receives a major global honour for her lifetime contribution to transparency, accountability and anti-corruption reforms.
Ezekwesili was named a joint winner of the 2025 International Anti-Corruption Excellence Award in the Lifetime and Outstanding Achievement category, organisers announced on Sunday.
The award, presented on December 14 in Doha, is approved by a High-Level Committee chaired by Ali Bin Fetais Al Marri, United Nations Special Advocate for the Prevention of Corruption.
Organisers describe Ezekwesili’s record as one defined by “integrity, courage and sustained global impact” following a rigorous independent assessment.
Popularly known as “Madam Due Process”, Ezekwesili earns national recognition for leading Nigeria’s public procurement reforms, strengthening transparency and value-for-money in government spending.
She later served as Minister of Solid Minerals and Minister of Education, advancing reforms focused on accountability, budget discipline and quality assurance.
Internationally, she serves as Vice President for Africa at the World Bank, overseeing development operations across 48 Sub-Saharan African countries, and co-founds Transparency International.
Ezekwesili is also widely known for her role as a co-convener of the #BringBackOurGirls movement, which draws global attention to accountability, insecurity and the rights of abducted schoolchildren.
The award recognises individuals whose work leaves a lasting legacy in ethical leadership and the rule of law worldwide.
About the Author
Oluwatobi Adu 
Edino Chubiyo Cornelius 
