Diezani Alison-Madueke
- Name: Diezani Alison-Madueke
- Birthdate: December 6, 1960
- Birthplace: Port Harcourt, Nigeria
- Occupation: Politician
Born on December 6, 1960, in Port Harcourt, Nigeria, Diezani K. Alison-Madueke emerged as a formidable figure in the global oil sector.
After earning a degree in architecture from Howard University and an MBA from Cambridge University, she joined Shell Petroleum Development Company, becoming its first female executive director in Nigeria.
Her governmental career included roles as Minister of Transportation, Minister of Mines and Steel Development, and notably, Minister of Petroleum Resources from 2010 to 2015. In 2014, she broke new ground as the first female President of OPEC.
Allegations and Legal Challenges
Alison-Madueke's tenure was marred by serious allegations of corruption. She faced accusations of misappropriating billions of dollars from Nigeria's oil revenues.
In 2015, she was arrested in London on suspicion of bribery and money laundering. Subsequent investigations led to the seizure of assets, including luxury properties and a $50 million yacht.
In 2023, she appeared in a UK court facing bribery charges, while the U.S. Department of Justice announced the repatriation of $52.88 million linked to her alleged corrupt activities.
Personal Life and Legacy
Married to Rear Admiral Allison Madueke, a former Nigerian Chief of Naval Staff, Diezani is a mother to six children. She has publicly battled breast cancer, undergoing treatment in the UK.
Despite her groundbreaking achievements, her legacy is overshadowed by the extensive corruption allegations, making her a contentious figure in Nigeria's political history.
