Bisi Fayemi

Bisi Adeleye-Fayemi (born June 11, 1963) is a prominent Nigerian gender rights activist, writer, policy advocate, and philanthropist. She served as the First Lady of Ekiti State, Nigeria, from 2018 to 2022, having previously held the position from 2010 to 2014. She is recognized for her significant contributions to advancing women’s rights and socio-political development in Nigeria and across Africa.Early Life and Education Bisi Adeleye was born in Liverpool, England, on June 11, 1963. She received her early education in Nigeria and the UK. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in History from the University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University), Ile-Ife, and a Master’s degree in Gender and Society from Middlesex University, UK. Her academic background laid the foundation for her subsequent career dedicated to social justice and gender equality.Career Progression and Advocacy Adeleye-Fayemi's professional career began in the UK, where she served as the Director of Akina Mama wa Afrika (AMwA), an international non-governmental organization based in London that focuses on developing leadership skills for African women. In this role, she spent many years coordinating programs and advocating for women's rights globally. In 2001, she co-founded the African Women’s Development Fund (AWDF), a major grant-making foundation based in Accra, Ghana. The AWDF is renowned for supporting the work of African women’s organizations across the continent, providing crucial resources and capacity building. She served as the Executive Director of the AWDF for several years, building it into a respected institution within the philanthropic and development sectors. Upon returning to Nigeria, Bisi Fayemi became actively involved in politics and development work, particularly in Ekiti State, alongside her husband, Dr. Kayode Fayemi. Her roles as First Lady saw her focus heavily on policy advocacy and social interventions.Major Achievements and Notable Works As the First Lady of Ekiti State, Bisi Fayemi championed several groundbreaking legislative efforts and programs aimed at protecting vulnerable populations. Her most notable achievements include advocating for the passage and implementation of: * **Gender-Based Violence (Prohibition) Law:** This law was pivotal in providing legal protection and support for victims of sexual and gender-based violence in the state. * **Equal Opportunities Bill:** Legislation designed to ensure fair access and representation for women in economic and political life. * **HIV/AIDS Anti-Stigma Law:** A policy initiative aimed at protecting the rights and dignity of people living with HIV/AIDS.Adeleye-Fayemi is also an accomplished writer and commentator on social and political issues. Her published works include: * *Speaking Above a Whisper* (2013) * *Loud Whispers* (2017) * *Autobiography of an ‘African Feminist’* (2020) * *Where is Your Wrapper?* (2020)She is a frequent speaker and mentor on issues concerning gender, philanthropy, and leadership, contributing significantly to the global discourse on African feminism.Current Status Following the end of her husband’s tenure as Governor of Ekiti State in 2022, Bisi Fayemi continues her work as a high-profile activist and public figure. She remains dedicated to the AWDF and various humanitarian causes. She actively engages in public policy discussions and maintains a strong presence as a voice for social justice, gender equality, and good governance across Nigeria and the diaspora.