Prominent Nigerian leaders, including Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and Minister of Interior Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, have been honoured at the prestigious 2025 Face of Africa Leadership Awards, hosted by Triangle News International in London.
The high-profile event, held at the RHB 300 Hall of Goldsmiths, University of London, brought together African trailblazers from diverse sectors under the theme “Digital Governance: Opportunities and Challenges.” It marked the third edition of the awards and served as a platform for celebrating leadership excellence, innovation, and Africa’s digital transformation agenda.
In his keynote address, the Chief Executive Officer of Triangle News International, Femi Salako, emphasized the urgency for African leaders to embrace digital innovation in governance and development. “Today, we celebrate not just personalities, but the values of innovation, resilience, and purpose that define African leadership,” Salako stated.
Governor Sanwo-Olu was honoured for his outstanding leadership and commitment to urban governance and digital infrastructure in Lagos State. He was joined by Niger State Governor Mohammed Bago and Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, who were also recognised for their contributions to sustainable development and digital policy advancement.
Minister Tunji-Ojo, who served as Special Guest of Honour, received accolades for reforms in Nigeria’s interior ministry and for fostering efficient public service delivery through digital tools. In his remarks, Tunji-Ojo lauded the event as “a celebration of African pride,” urging Nigerians in the diaspora to keep upholding the nation’s dignity and values. “This platform represents the heartbeat of Africa’s future. We must continue to project integrity, innovation, and unity,” he said.
The award ceremony also featured recognition of individuals in youth development and advocacy. Seyi Tinubu, entrepreneur and youth advocate, and Minister of Youth Development, Ayodele Wisdom, were both honoured for driving initiatives that empower African youth.
Legal luminary and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Wole Olanipekun, was named Personality of the Year for his longstanding service to the legal profession and public policy.
Other recipients included:
Senator Orji Uzor Kalu (Abia North), recognised for legislative leadership.
Senator Eteng Jonah Williams (Cross River Central), honoured for constituency development.
Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, applauded for strengthening diaspora engagement.
Femi Soneye, Chief Corporate Communications Officer, NNPC Ltd, acknowledged for excellence in public sector communication.
Renowned global cybersecurity expert, Prof. Ojo Ademola, delivered a compelling address on Africa’s digital economy, stressing the need for investment in data security, equitable access, and tech education. Meanwhile, tech strategist Fola Braimoh highlighted the vital role of leadership in advancing Africa’s digital evolution.
The ceremony attracted high-level attendees, including the Deputy Defence Adviser at the Nigerian High Commission in London, Commander Collins Mezeh. The Mayor of London, in a special goodwill message, commended the initiative as a testament to Africa’s rising global influence, praising the event for drawing together “a reputable crowd of changemakers.”
Triangle News International described the 2025 edition of the Face of Africa Leadership Awards as more than a ceremony—it was “a rallying call to Africans everywhere to lead with courage, collaborate across borders, and define their narratives.”
As Africa stands at the cusp of a digital revolution, events like this not only celebrate present accomplishments but also galvanize collective action for a better, tech-driven future across the continent.