Nigerian entertainers dominated the Most Influential People of African Descent (MIPAD) 2025 Awards and Dinner, cementing the country’s leadership in African entertainment, creativity, and global influence.
The ceremony, held on Sunday night at The Library in Lagos, celebrated excellence across leadership, culture, innovation, and the arts, attracting some of the continent’s most influential figures in media, business, governance, and entertainment.
A key prelude to the event saw Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu formally presented with the MIPAD Governor of the Year 2025 Award during a courtesy visit by the MIPAD delegation to Lagos House, Marina, on December 18. The award recognised his leadership and contributions to the African diaspora community.
The Lagos awards night marked the grand finale of the Lagos Diaspora Experience 2025, a week-long showcase of African culture, art, and innovation designed to strengthen global connections for the continent.
Entertainment accolades highlighted the country’s creative talent, with Ebuka Obi-Uchendu named Media Personality of the Year, Bovi Ugboma honoured as Comedian of the Year, and Juliet Ibrahim winning Actor of the Year (Female). Music, film, and theatre awards also recognised D’banj (Music Platform of the Year), Funke Akindele (Blockbuster Movie of the Year for Everybody Loves Jenifa), Omoni Oboli (Movie of the Year for Love in Every Word 1 & 2), and Bolanle Austen Peters (Theatre Festival of the Year).
Other celebrated figures included Kelechi Amadi Obi (Photographer of the Year), Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie (Author of the Year), Wale Ojo (Filmmaker of the Year), and the power couple Banky Wellington & Adesua Etomi-Wellington. Their awards underscored Nigeria’s influence across multiple creative sectors.
The MIPAD 2025 Awards reinforced Lagos’ growing reputation as a global hub for African excellence, offering a platform for recognition, networking, and the celebration of impactful individuals shaping the continent’s narrative on the world stage.
