Moradeun Ogunlana is a Nigerian-American philanthropist, energy consultant, and women's rights advocate. She is the founder and CEO of the African Women Health Project International (AWHPI), an NGO that has Special Consultative Status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC).[1] She is the recipient of the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award, conferred by U.S. President Joe Biden in 2022,[2] and holds the title of United Nations Ambassador for Peace.[3][4]
Princess Ogunlana was born in Lagos, Nigeria, into royal lineage from both Nigeria and the Republic of Benin. She is the granddaughter of HRM David Ajasa Ogunlana, the 10th Obanikoro of Lagos, and the great-granddaughter of HRM King Liyangu Owabagbe Adenuga, the ninth Akarigbo of Remo Kingdom in Shagamu, Ogun State.[5] Her royal heritage has significantly influenced her advocacy for cultural preservation and community empowerment.[6]
Ogunlana founded AWHPI to address healthcare inequities affecting African women and girls. The organization runs programs in maternal health, disease prevention, and education.[9] She also leads the Innovative Global Consulting (IGC) Group, focusing on sustainable development, infrastructure, agriculture, and energy in Africa and emerging markets.[10]
In addition to these roles, she is the convener of the First Ladies Forum and Economic Development Platform, where she brings together African First Ladies, women leaders, and development stakeholders to discuss strategies for national growth.[11]
Humanitarian and advocacy work
Her advocacy spans international development and peacebuilding. She is a United Nations Global Ambassador for Peace and a member of several international bodies, including Leaders Without Borders and Fight Cancer Global.[12] Through these platforms, she has promoted diplomatic partnerships and social impact initiatives across more than 30 countries.[13]
Philanthropy
Her philanthropic work includes funding school projects, delivering medical aid, and hosting health missions in underserved communities across Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, and Liberia.[14] She is also a co-founder of Africa259, a platform promoting African investment opportunities and diaspora engagement.[15]
Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award (2022) – Awarded by U.S. President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris in recognition of her community service efforts.[20]
Governor's Excellence Award – Conferred by the State of Arkansas.[21]
Global Ambassador for Peace – Bestowed by the United Nations Peace and Prosperity Global Initiative.[22]
Publications
She is a contributing author to Beyond Boundaries: Cultivating Her Voice, Her Power, Redefined, a 2024 anthology highlighting stories of empowered women.[23]
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