Prof. Remi Sonaiya (born 1955) is a Nigerian linguist, academic, and former presidential candidate who has made significant contributions to linguistics and education in Nigeria. She was the first female presidential candidate in Nigeria's history, running in 2015. As a professor of French and Applied Linguistics, she has published extensively and has been a strong advocate for education and women's empowerment.


FIRST FEMALE PRESIDENTIAL CANDIDATE:
Sonaiya made history in 2015 by becoming the first female presidential candidate in Nigeria's history, running as the candidate of the KOWA Party. This achievement broke barriers for women in Nigerian politics and demonstrated that women could aspire to the highest political office. Her candidacy was a milestone for gender equality in Nigerian politics.

LINGUISTICS EXPERTISE:
Sonaiya is a professor of French and Applied Linguistics, with extensive expertise in language studies. She has published research on linguistics and language education, contributing to academic knowledge. Her linguistic expertise has informed her work in education and has contributed to language education in Nigeria.

ACADEMIC CONTRIBUTIONS:
Sonaiya has made significant academic contributions, publishing research and contributing to linguistic scholarship. She has served as a professor at Obafemi Awolowo University, where she has mentored students and contributed to academic excellence. Her academic contributions have enriched linguistic studies in Nigeria.

EDUCATION ADVOCACY:
Sonaiya has been a strong advocate for education, emphasizing its importance for development. She has worked to improve education quality and access, recognizing education as fundamental to progress. Her advocacy for education has contributed to discussions about education reform in Nigeria.

WOMEN'S EMPOWERMENT:
Sonaiya has been a vocal advocate for women's empowerment and gender equality. Her presidential candidacy was itself an act of empowerment, demonstrating that women could aspire to leadership. She has used her platform to advocate for women's rights and opportunities.

LEGACY AND INFLUENCE:
Prof. Remi Sonaiya's legacy extends beyond her individual achievements. As the first female presidential candidate in Nigeria, she broke barriers and inspired other women to participate in politics. Her academic contributions have enriched linguistic studies. Her advocacy for education and women's empowerment has contributed to important discussions.

FAST FACTS:
- Born 1955 in Ile-Ife, Osun State, Nigeria.
- Education: Advanced degrees in French and Applied Linguistics.
- Key Achievement: First female presidential candidate in Nigeria's history (2015).
- Academic: Professor of French and Applied Linguistics at Obafemi Awolowo University.
- Contributions: Significant contributions to linguistics and education.
- Recognition: Historic presidential candidacy, academic recognition.
- Notable: Strong advocate for education and women's empowerment.
- Legacy: Broke barriers for women in Nigerian politics, inspired other women.