The Nation Newspaper

Tag: CEOs Network Africa

  • CEOs Network Africa receives over 15,000 nominations, unveils 136 finalists for 2025 gala night

    CEOs Network Africa receives over 15,000 nominations, unveils 136 finalists for 2025 gala night

    The CEOs Network Africa has announced 136 finalists across 17 categories for its highly anticipated Gala & Dinner Night 2025, following an impressive 15,000 nominations from across the continent.

    The event is scheduled to take place on December 14, 2025, at the National Assembly Library Trust Fund, NASS Complex, Abuja.

    Awards Committee Chairman, Barr. Chimdi Neliaku, expressed profound admiration for the extraordinary quality of entries received:

    “We received over 15,000 nominations from across Nigeria and the African continent—an overwhelming testament to the depth of talent, innovation, and leadership emerging in our youth. The richness and diversity of these submissions made the selection process exceptionally challenging. 

    Every nomination told a compelling story of resilience, creativity, and impact. Narrowing down to just 136 finalists required weeks of rigorous evaluation, tough debates, and difficult decisions. We were consistently inspired, often moved, and ultimately humbled by the caliber of young leaders stepping forward to shape Africa’s future.

    READ ALSO: Tacha thanks God after making history with double GWR

    The awards will recognize outstanding achievements in Agriculture and Sustainability, Beauty and Fashion, Break-out Startup, Creativity and Arts, Entrepreneur of the Year, Finance, Sport and Wellness, Hospitality, Solohan Lawyer of the Year, Music and Entertainment, Online Community, Online Personality/Influencer of the Year, Politics and Governance, Real Estate, Social Impact, Technology and Innovation, Visual Art and Media.

    The annual celebration brings together Africa’s leading innovators, policymakers, and entrepreneurs to honor excellence, collaboration, and visionary leadership across sectors.

    Speaking on this year’s theme, “Driving Africa’s Resilient Reinvention,” Alli-Bob Cinwon, Founder of CEOs Network Africa, described the awards as a reflection of the continent’s defining moment.

    “Africa stands at a defining moment, one marked by reinvention, resilience, and reimagination. This year’s gala celebrates leaders who are not just adapting to change but creating it. They are the bold thinkers shaping the next chapter of Africa’s story through innovation, governance, and social impact,” Cinwon said.

    Co-founder Barrister Omojo Wada added that the overwhelming number of entries demonstrates the rising tide of youthful leadership on the continent.

    “Every nomination tells a story of courage, creativity, and relentless pursuit of progress. The response reflects a growing movement of young Africans committed to transforming systems and inspiring a new generation of leadership,” Wada remarked.

    The 2025 Gala Night will attract distinguished guests, including top government officials, industry pioneers, and policy influencers who exemplify the spirit of reinvention. The night will celebrate the continent’s brightest minds who are redefining what it means to lead, build, and thrive in modern Africa.

  • CEOs Network Africa unveils honorees for special recognition awards 

    CEOs Network Africa unveils honorees for special recognition awards 

    The CEOs Network Africa Gala Night 2024 is set to honor exceptional contributions to leadership, innovation, mentorship, and cultural heritage through its prestigious non-voting award categories. 

    The much-anticipated event will take place on 15th December 2024 at the Banquet Hall, Presidential Villa, Abuja.

    Prominent among the honorees is Olori Atuwatse III, Queen of the Warri Kingdom, who will be awarded the Cultural Heritage Award. Alhaji Chief Ibrahim Egungbohun Dende (IB Dende) will receive the Philanthropy and Humanitarian Award, while Seyi Vodi, founder of Vodi Group, will also be celebrated for his contributions to cultural heritage. Mohammed Sheidu, Executive Secretary of the Police Trust Fund, will be honored with the Public Service and Leadership Award, and Stephen Akintayo, chairman of GText Holdings, will receive the Mentorship Excellence Award for his impactful role in guiding the next generation of leaders.

    This year’s competitive categories highlight Africa’s diverse and dynamic talent. Among the nominees are Aminu M. Nyako, CEO/MD of Sebore Group; Haruna Hassan Tukur, CEO of Hafaz Farms; Veekee James, a celebrated fashion designer; Olajide Okerayi (Jide of St. Ola), a beauty artist; and Fola David, a visual artist and speed painter. Also nominated are Arafat Bello-Osagie, CEO of Play Network Studios; Babatunde Bayo Lawal, co-founder of Dukiya; Abdulrazaaq Zubair, CEO of Razley Prints; Emily Ayalla, CEO of Ayalla Water; and Chukwuebuka Emmanuel (Brain Jotter), a comedian and content creator.

    Other nominees include Kingsley Obiukwu, CEO of Bolton White Group; Bright Sekoni, founder of Audacia; Henry Uzochukwu of Stanel Group; Ibiyinka Ibi Ibru, founder of Moneystart; Sarah Amana, CEO of Rich Aunty Finance; Odunola Olabintan, founder of The Health City; Egemba Chinonso Fidelis (Aproko Doctor), a health influencer and founder of The 100k Club; and Christopher Taylor (Chef Taylor), a prominent culinary influencer.

    The event will host esteemed dignitaries, including Vice President Kashim Shettima, Secretary to the Government of the Federation Senator George Akume, Honourable Minister of Youth Ayodele Olawande, and Honourable Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy Barr. Hannatu Musa Musawa. Other expected guests include Mallam Jibrin Baba Ndace, Director General of Voice of Nigeria, alongside a host of prominent figures from across the continent.

    Founder of CEOs Network Africa, Alli-Bob Cinwon, expressed excitement about the caliber of nominees:

    “The overwhelming number of high-quality nominations—over 14,000—showcases the immense potential of Africa’s youth. This event provides a platform to celebrate their contributions and highlight the future leaders of our continent.”

    Co-founder Omojo Wada added: “This year’s nominees represent a beacon of creativity and determination. Their remarkable achievements exemplify the transformative power of young Africans in shaping a brighter future.”

    The Chairman of the Awards Committee, Ayo Adeagbo, who also serves as Special Assistant to the President on Art, Culture, and the Creative Economy, emphasized the importance of the initiative: “This program aligns seamlessly with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, reinforcing the administration’s unwavering commitment to empowering youths and nurturing leadership development.”

    The CEOs Network Africa Gala Night 2024 is poised to be a landmark celebration, bringing together trailblazers from diverse sectors to honor innovation, unity, and excellence across Africa.

  • CEOs Network Africa opens nomination

    CEOs Network Africa opens nomination

    CEOs Network Africa has opened nominations for this year’s CEOs Network Africa Gala and Dinner Night slated for December 15, 2024, at the State House Banquet Hall, Presidential Villa, Abuja.

    This year’s theme is: “Celebrating art, culture, and the creative economy.”

    Special Assistant to the President on Art, Culture and Creative Economy, Ayo Adeagbo, said: “The award is dedicated to honouring exceptional young leaders and innovators.”

    Adeagbo, also the chairperson of the awards committee, added: “The CEOs Awards have always been about recognising young talent pushing boundaries and creating impact.”

    Read Also: FULL LIST: Chiefs of Army Staff who died in office

    The awards will include multiple categories where the public can nominate and vote, alongside special recognition categories that accept nominations but do not feature public voting.

     Adeagbo urged the public to participate in the process.

    “Your nominations are essential! I encourage everyone to take part in this initiative, as recognising these outstanding leaders is crucial for inspiring future generations. Let us unite in celebrating the remarkable contributions of our young business leaders,” Adeagbo added.

    Founder of CEOs Network Africa, Alli-Bob Cinwon said: “Our collaboration with the Office of the Special Adviser to the President on Art, Culture, and the Creative Economy reflects a shared vision for supporting Africa’s innovation, creativity, and economic progress.

    “We’re thrilled to honour these exceptional individuals and amplify their contributions, which inspire others and drive Africa’s progress. This year’s nominees reflect a future of promise, creativity, and excellence.”