Omu Okwei

Nigerian merchant queen who built West Africa's largest trade network

Omu Okwei (1872–1943), the 'Merchant Queen of Osomari', transformed from refugee to West Africa's most powerful businesswoman. Her commercial empire controlled:

• 32 trading posts along Niger River
• Fleet of 320 canoes for transport
• Trade in palm oil, ivory and firearms

As Britain's only female Warrant Chief in 1912, she negotiated colonial trade terms while preserving Igbo economic autonomy. Her Omu Council became prototype for modern Nigerian women's trade unions.

Okwei's innovation included:

• First bulk-buying cooperative in West Africa
• Standardized weights/measures system
• Cross-cultural marriage alliances for trade expansion

Despite colonial restrictions, her £230,000 estate (about $25M today) funded girls' education and micro-loans for women traders. The 'Omu Stool' remains ceremonial leadership position in Anioma culture.