Lady Kofoworola Ademola, a revered figure in Nigerian history, was a pioneering educationist, writer, and advocate for women’s rights. Born in 1913 to Omoba Eric Olawolu Moore, a member of the Egba royal family, and Aida Arabella Vaughan, her privileged upbringing straddled Lagos and the United Kingdom, fostering her progressive worldview and setting the foundation for her groundbreaking achievements.
Kofoworola began her education at the C.M.S. Girls School in Lagos before pursuing advanced studies abroad. She attended Portway College in Reading, England, and later enrolled at St. Hugh’s College, Oxford University, in 1931. At Oxford, she earned a degree in English and Education, becoming the first Black African woman to graduate from the institution. Her academic journey was marked by resilience, challenging racial stereotypes and establishing herself as a symbol of African women’s intellectual potential.
While studying in Britain, she documented her experiences, which reflected both the fascination and prejudice she encountered. These accounts, featured in historian Margery Perham’s Ten Africans collection, highlighted her commitment to reshaping perceptions of Africans during the colonial era.
Upon graduating in 1935, Kofoworola returned to Nigeria, where she became the first Nigerian graduate teacher at Queen’s College, Lagos. Her passion for teaching extended beyond the classroom; she co-founded schools like the Girls Secondary Modern School and New Era Girls’ Secondary School in Lagos, focusing on equipping young girls with quality education. Her educational philosophy emphasised knowledge as a tool for empowerment, particularly for women in a patriarchal society
She was a pioneer in women’s education and gender equality. Lady Ademola founded several schools and promoted educational opportunities for girls in Nigeria. Lady Ademola’s advocacy work went hand in hand with her career in education. In 1958, she became the first president of the National Council of Women’s Societies (NCWS) in Nigeria, an organisation dedicated to improving the status of women. Under her leadership, the NCWS collaborated with international women’s groups, amplifying Nigerian women’s voices on a global stage.
Her work extended to social development initiatives, including her role as Secretary of the Western Region Scholarship Board and Director of the Western Region Red Cross. She also chaired the Board of Trustees of the United Bank for Africa, making history as the first female to hold this position. She was also actively involved in various social and charitable organizations, including the Nigerian Red Cross Society
Lady Kofoworola Ademola was also a prolific writer. She authored several children’s books inspired by African folklore, such as Tortoise and the Clever Ant and Tutu and the Magic Gourds. Through these stories, she sought to preserve African cultural heritage and instil moral lessons in young readers. Her writings continue to serve as valuable resources for cultural education.
In recognition of her contributions, Kofoworola received numerous accolades, including being named a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in 1959 and receiving Nigeria’s Order of the Federal Republic (OFR). She also held traditional titles, including the Mojibade of Ake and the Lika of Ijemo, reflecting her esteemed status in Yoruba society.
Kofoworola married Adetokunbo Ademola. Lady Kofoworola Ademola passed away in 2002 at the age of 89, leaving behind a remarkable legacy of leadership, education, and advocacy. Her life’s work paved the way for countless African women to pursue higher education and leadership roles. She remains an enduring symbol of resilience and excellence, inspiring future generations to challenge societal barriers and strive for equality
