Lagos, Nigeria – April 18, 2026 — Independent Newspaper celebrated its 2025 Silver Jubilee Awards in spectacular fashion, bringing together Nigeria’s most influential leaders, innovators, and change-makers under one roof at the prestigious Eko Hotel and Suites.
The landmark event, themed “Game Changers: Breaking Barriers, Shaping Tomorrow,” highlighted outstanding individuals and institutions whose contributions continue to shape Nigeria’s socio-economic and political landscape.
A Celebration of Excellence and Impact
Delivering the opening address, the Managing Director/Editor-in-Chief, Steve Omanufeme, described the awards as a celebration of excellence driven by a rigorous selection process involving a jury, public voting, and the organization’s board.
“This event celebrates individuals who are not only excelling but redefining standards across industries. We believe this recognition will inspire even greater impact,” he said.
Royal Endorsement and National Significance
Chairman of the occasion, Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, commended the awardees, noting that their achievements reflect dedication, vision, and service to society.
He emphasized that honoring such individuals reinforces the importance of leadership and contribution across all sectors.
Top Honours and Distinguished Awardees
The event saw several high-profile recognitions:
Man of the Year: Abdulsamad Rabiu (BUA Group) and Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala
Outstanding Governor of the Year: Uba Sani
Outstanding Independent Governor / Urban Renewal: Sheriff Oborevwori
Outstanding Governor & Financial Architect: Peter Mbah
Human Capital Empowerment Governor: Dikko Umaru Radda
Delta State’s Deputy Governor, Monday Onyeme, highlighted massive infrastructure strides, including 300km of roads and multiple flyover projects, reinforcing the state’s urban transformation.
Enugu State’s achievements under Peter Mbah were also spotlighted, with Internally Generated Revenue rising significantly, driven by reforms and technology adoption.
Legislative and Public Sector Excellence
Legislator of the Year: Sharafadeen Alli and Asuquo Ekpenyong
Public Sector Reformer of the Year: Zacch Adedeji
Senator Ekpenyong, speaking from international duty, reflected on leadership and legacy, emphasizing collective responsibility in nation-building.
Corporate, Financial & Innovation Awards
Fintech Company of the Year: Moniepoint
Best Retail & SME Bank / CSR Champion: Fidelity Bank
Financial Sector Regulator of the Year: Central Bank of Nigeria
Pharmaceutical Company of the Year: Greenlife Pharmaceutical Ltd.
Social Impact and Lifetime Achievement Recognition
Social Impact Man of the Year: Nenibarini Zabbey for Ogoni clean-up efforts
Social Impact Investor of the Year: Chima Desmond Anyaso
Lifetime Achievement Awards honored icons including:
Don Etiebet
Samuel Adedoyin
Atedo Peterside
Kessington Adebutu
Theophilus Danjuma
Media, Leadership & National Development
Media Personality of the Year: Rufai Oseni
Most Innovative Cabinet Minister: Tunji Alausa
The event also featured commendations from Mohammed Hayatudeen, who described the newspaper’s 25-year journey as a testament to resilience, professionalism, and impact in Nigeria’s media landscape.
A Legacy of Impactful Journalism
Founded in 2001, Independent Newspaper has grown into a trusted voice in Nigeria’s media ecosystem, consistently delivering insightful reporting and shaping national discourse.
The Silver Jubilee celebration reaffirmed its role not just as a chronicler of history, but as a catalyst for progress and accountability.
