It was a night of glitz, pride, and celebration as some of Africa’s finest business executives, entrepreneurs, leaders, and change-makers were honoured at the 10th African Iconic Awards in Abuja.
The landmark anniversary edition, organised by Face of African Concept and staged at the Transcorp Hilton, marked a decade of celebrating Africans whose work has shaped communities, inspired others, and advanced development across the continent.
The evening was more than just an awards ceremony—it was an elegant blend of fine dining, networking, and cultural appreciation. The theme, “True African Leaders: The Power of the African Youth in Leadership”, set the tone for heartfelt speeches and renewed calls for empowering Africa’s young population.
Delivering the keynote address, Mrs. Omowumi Ogunrotimi, former Deputy Director of the AU-ECOSOCC Sectoral Committee on Women and Gender, called for stronger support systems to help Africa’s youth fulfil their potential. She noted that with 70% of the continent’s population under the age of 30, their energy, creativity, and skills remain Africa’s most underused assets.
“We are a continent where over 60% of our people are under 25, yet we are governed by systems designed to exclude us. This must change,” she said, urging stakeholders to give young people a seat at the table in governance and decision-making.
In his remarks, the convener and Project Manager of the awards, Ambassador Abraham Lawal, said the decade-long journey of recognising excellence has been fulfilling.
“I feel so fulfilled celebrating people who have been brilliant and passionate in their craft. For me, the reward for good deeds is more work—and I urge all our awardees to keep inspiring others,” he said.
This year’s roll call of honourees was long and distinguished, featuring personalities from diverse fields—business, philanthropy, entertainment, advocacy, and community development. They included Engr. Dr. Dominic Onuh Akubor; Mrs. Omowumi Ogunrotimi; Dr. Alex Nwankwo, CEO, Amity Global Network; Mathew Godwin Mario (Ph.D); Thola Jiba Sibutha, CEO, Microzone Trading 747; Ambassador (Dr.) Sikiru Omogbolahan Adisa Bobby Oseni, CEO, S.G Multi National Investment Ltd LLC; and Ambassador Cynthia Ejiroghene Edudje, CEO, Kumcyn Global Consultancy Ltd.
Others recognised were Kenneth Anetor, Ihensekhien Samuel Junior, John Nwachukwumereze Okwugo, Chidinma Vivien Okonkwo, Imeze Cynthia Iwugo, Akinboro-Kuti Olabisi Funmilayo, Gariba Murtala Labaran, Jenneh Jemima Barclay, Peter Oriri, Barr. Jane Danladi, Uzoma Ehiemere, Pharm. (Mrs.) Obiageli Annie Ubi, Amb. Dr. Chris Oko Odey, Imade Surname Osawaru, Kelly Itohan Ogbeide, Bisola Olayiwola, Ebosetale Okhueleigbe, Matthias M. Yeanay, Dr. Abadariki Annie Oziohu, Comrade Musa Mamman Kontagora, Lawal Muyideen Olakunle, Agbonifoh Ernest Etinosa, Engr. Paul Patrick Pam, Datok Yakubu, Temitope Joseph Olanipekun, Temidayo Enitan, and Maryam Bukar Hassan (Alhanislam).
From seasoned professionals to young innovators, the 10th African Iconic Awards not only celebrated personal achievements but also amplified a shared vision—an Africa where talent, resilience, and leadership are recognised, nurtured, and given room to flourish.
African Icons Shine as Abuja Hosts 10th African Iconic Awards
