The CEOs Network Africa has unveiled 136 finalists across 17 categories for its highly anticipated 2025 Gala & Dinner Night, following an impressive 15,000 nominations from across the continent.
The prestigious event is scheduled for 14 December 2025 at the National Assembly Library Trust Fund, NASS Complex, Abuja.
Awards Committee Chairman, Barr. Chimdi Neliaku, expressed deep admiration for the exceptional quality of submissions:
“We received over 15,000 nominations from Nigeria and across Africa, a remarkable testament to the talent, innovation and leadership emerging among our youth. The richness and diversity of these entries made the selection process extremely challenging.
Each nomination told a compelling story of resilience, creativity and impact. Narrowing down to 136 finalists required weeks of rigorous evaluation, difficult debates and careful deliberation. We were consistently inspired, often moved, and ultimately humbled by the calibre of young leaders stepping forward to shape Africa’s future.”
The awards will recognise outstanding achievements in Agriculture and Sustainability, Beauty and Fashion, Breakout 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, and Visual Art and Media.
The annual celebration brings together Africa’s leading innovators, policymakers and entrepreneurs to honour 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 pivotal moment marked by reinvention, resilience and reimagination. This year’s gala celebrates leaders who are not only 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 highlights 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 embody 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.