Zaynab Otiti Obanor, a Nigerian businesswoman, philanthropist, and former royal figure, has again captured national and international media attention following reports that she is married to Senator George Akume, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF).
The announcement was made by a member of the SGF’s extended family on social media, welcoming Obanor into the Dajoh family as “Queen Zaynab Ngohemba-George Akume Dajoh.”
This marks Zaynab Otiti Obanor’s latest high – profile marriage after earlier marriages to the Ooni of Ife and an Arab prince.
Background
Zaynab Otiti Obanor was born in Edo State, Nigeria. She is a humanitarian, businesswoman, and cultural ambassador. Obanor’s work spans community development, women’s empowerment, international economic initiatives, and rural entrepreneurship.
Zaynab Otiti Obanor has been described as an entrepreneur and strategist engaged in initiatives that bridge cultural, economic, and development interests across Africa and the Middle East.
She has been involved in the launch and management of SIWAJU, a project that reportedly employs thousands of women by teaching artisan skills and promoting locally sourced production.
Obanor founded the Arab African Economic Development Initiative (AAEDI) to foster economic and cultural linkages between Arab states and African nations, emphasizing collaboration in areas such as agriculture, infrastructure, health, and renewable energy. The initiative has been reported to involve partnerships across multiple countries.
Multiple High – Profile Marriages
Marriage to Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ooni of Ife (2016–2017)
Obanor first entered widespread public recognition when she married Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, the Ooni of Ife, in March 2016.
The traditional ceremonies in Benin City and Ile-Ife were widely covered by media outlets. Upon marriage, she was styled as Olori Wuraola. The union lasted for approximately 17 months before ending in August 2017, when Obanor publicly confirmed the separation and dismissed rumors linking the divorce to personal issues.
Marriage to Former Governor of Jigawa State Saminu Turaki
After her divorce from the Ooni of Ife, Obanor was reported to have been married to Saminu Turaki, a former governor of Jigawa State and former Nigerian senator although media coverage of this marriage is less detailed in terms of dates and ceremony specifics.
Reported Marriage to an Arab Prince ( Early 2020s)
Obanor was reportedly married to a wealthy Arab prince while living in Doha, Qatar, a period during which she is said to have welcomed a daughter in 2022. This marriage and the birth received coverage in entertainment and lifestyle outlets, though official public documentation from the parties has remained limited.
Marriage to Senator George Akume (2025)
In December 2025, social media accounts connected to the Akume Dajoh family announced Obanor’s marriage to Senator George Akume, currently serving as SGF. Family statements described the union as established more than a year ago, contradicting rumors that it was newly conducted during the festive season.
Philanthropy
Obanor established the Queen Zaynab Foundation (QZF), which has provided scholarships, supported small business creation for women in rural communities, and delivered medical aid.
Her Water for Wellness Project, under the foundation’s umbrella, focuses on installing solar-powered boreholes and clean water systems in areas suffering from water scarcity—a major public health challenge in rural Africa.
Obanor’s humanitarian work has earned her international recognition, including awards for her contributions to girl-child education and women’s empowerment, and accolades from foreign cities in the United States for her impact on African development.
She has also served in advocacy capacities with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) to advance women’s and children’s rights and health equity.
