Born: 1913 (Lagos, Nigeria)
Died: 2002
Biography:
Oloori Kofoworola Kofo Aina Ademola, Lady Ademola MBE, MFR, OFR (née Moore; 21 May 1913 15 May 2002) was a Nigerian educationist who made significant contributions to society as the president of the National Council of Women’s Societies in Nigeria. Born on May 21, 1913, in Lagos, she was the daughter of Omoba Eric Olawolu Moore, a Lagos lawyer and member of an Egba royal family, and Aida Arabella Vaughan, who had Native American ancestry. Ademola spent her formative years split between Lagos and the United Kingdom, gaining a unique perspective on both Western and African cultures.
Ademola’s academic journey began at C.M.S. Girls School in Lagos, after which she pursued higher education at Vassar College in New York and Portway College in Reading. However, it was at St Hugh’s College, Oxford, where she truly made history. Ademola became the first black African woman to earn a degree from Oxford University. She excelled in her studies, graduating with a degree in education and English in 1935. During her time at Oxford, under the encouragement of Margery Perham, she wrote a 21-page autobiography to challenge British stereotypes about Africans. In it, she described her childhood as a blend of both Western and African cultural influences.
Returning to Nigeria in 1935, Ademola took up a teaching position at Queen’s College in Lagos. She became the first Nigerian graduate teacher at the prestigious institution, leaving an indelible mark on the education system. Her passion for empowering women led her to actively participate in women’s organizations such as the YWCA during her time in Lagos.
In 1939, Ademola married Adetokunbo Ademola, a civil servant, and they went on to have five children together. As the wife of a Yoruba prince, she held the honorary title of Oloori and, as the daughter of a prince, she was an Omoba herself. However, due to her husband’s knighthood, she was best known as Lady Ademola.
Ademola’s dedication to improving society extended beyond her role as an educator. She was a trailblazer in the field of women’s rights, becoming the first president of the National Council of Women’s Societies in Nigeria in 1958. Under her leadership, the organization made significant strides in advocating for gender equality and uplifting women across the country. Ademola’s tenure as president lasted until 1964, leaving a lasting impact on women’s rights in Nigeria.
In addition to her work in education and women’s rights, Lady Ademola also played a significant role in the business world. She became the first female member of the Board of Trustees of the United Bank for Africa and later served as its chairperson. Ademola’s achievements shattered glass ceilings and paved the way for more women to enter positions of leadership in the banking sector.
Throughout her life, Ademola also pursued her passion for writing. She authored several children’s books, showcasing her creativity and love for literature. Her books not only entertained young readers but also imparted valuable lessons and knowledge.
Ademola’s contributions to society were recognized and honored with numerous awards and accolades. Her notable achievements include being appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE), a Member of the Federal Republic (MFR), and an Officer of the Federal Republic (OFR). These honors served as a testament to her exceptional contributions to education, women’s rights, and the overall development of Nigeria.
Kofoworola Ademola’s legacy as a pioneering educationist, women’s rights advocate, and influential figure in Nigerian society continues to inspire generations. She broke barriers and shattered stereotypes, leaving an indelible mark on women’s history in Nigeria and beyond.
Awards:
– Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE)
– Member of the Federal Republic (MFR)
– Officer of the Federal Republic (OFR)