Over the years, Nigerians have continued to earn their place on TIME Magazine’s 100 Most Influential People in the World list, standing out in politics, science, business, and culture.

The magazine noted that their influence has crossed Nigeria’s borders, attracting global attention and challenging long-held narratives about the country.

Here Is a timeline of notable Nigerians who have featured on the TIME100 list:

1998

Wole Soyinka

Wole Soyinka’s name appeared on the list of Time 100 People in 1986, the same year he received the Nobel Prize for Literature. Time Magazine also published an article about his Nobel Prize in 1986

2013

Omotola Jalade Ekeinde

The Nollywood superstar became the first Nigerian actress to land on the TIME100 list. Her work in film and humanitarian causes made her a standout figure globally.

2014

Aliko Dangote

Africa’s richest man was recognised for his massive influence in business and philanthropy. His work in industrialisation and job creation placed him firmly on the global map.

Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala

The former Finance Minister made her debut appearance for her role in stabilising Nigeria’s economy and pushing for global financial reform.

2015

Muhammadu Buhari

Shortly after winning the presidential election, Buhari was listed for leading Nigeria through a historic democratic transition.

Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

The literary powerhouse was celebrated for her bold storytelling and feminist voice, which resonated worldwide.

Oby Ezekwesili

The former Minister of Education earned a spot for championing the #BringBackOurGirls campaign and advocating for transparency in governance.

2020

Tony Elumelu

The banking mogul and philanthropist made the list for empowering African entrepreneurs through the Tony Elumelu Foundation.

Tomi Adeyemi

She was acknowledged by Wikipedia as the writer of the #1 New York Times bestselling book, Children of Blood and Bone, the first in the Legacy of Orïsha trilogy published by Henry Holt Books for Young Readers.

Tunji Funsho

He is a Lagos-based cardiologist and the first Rotary member to be bestowed with this honour for the organisation’s work to eradicate polio, following his role in ensuring Africa’s certification as wild polio-free in August of 2020.

2021

Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala (again)

She returned to the list after becoming the Director-General of the World Trade Organization, the first African and first woman to hold the role.

2023

Bola Ahmed Tinubu

Listed as Nigeria’s President-elect, Tinubu was acknowledged for his influence in shaping Nigeria’s political landscape.

Dimie Ogoina

The infectious disease expert was honoured for sounding the alarm on the 2017 monkeypox outbreak, which later spread globally.

2024

Burna Boy

The Grammy-winning artiste was celebrated for taking Afrobeats to the world.

2025

Mo Abudu

The media mogul and EbonyLife founder was included for changing how African stories are told, and for building one of the continent’s biggest entertainment platforms. (The Guardian)