The high-profile ceremony, held at Eko Hotels & Suites, attracted an array of dignitaries, including elder statesmen, governors, ministers and leading figures in the media industry. The gathering underscored the enduring relevance of the awards as a platform for recognising individuals whose work continues to shape national development.
Nwobodo honoured decades after public service
One of the most notable highlights of the evening was the conferment of a lifetime achievement award on former governor of old Anambra State, Jim Nwobodo. Reflecting on the recognition, he expressed gratitude to Vanguard’s publisher, Sam Amuka-Pemu, for honouring him more than 40 years after leaving office.
He commended the newspaper for its commitment to truth, stressing that integrity in journalism ultimately earns divine reward. His remarks drew attention to the importance of credible media in sustaining democratic values.
Tunji-Ojo, Okunbo dedicate honours, recall legacy
Minister of Interior Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, who received a Personality of the Year award, dedicated the honour to President Bola Tinubu, citing the administration’s leadership and governance direction as foundational to his recognition.
In the youth category, Osahon Okunbo was named Young Entrepreneur of the Year. He praised Vanguard for the honour and recalled that his late father, Hosa Okunbo, had previously been recognised as Industrialist of the Year—highlighting a continuing family legacy in enterprise.
Media, political heavyweights in attendance
The event drew prominent media figures including Segun Osoba, Nduka Obaigbena, Maiden Ibru, Gbenga Omotoso and Ikechukwu Amaechi, alongside political leaders such as Bode Olajumoke, Peter Obi and James Ibori.
“We’re honouring society shapers” — Ajumogobia
In his opening address, former Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Odein Ajumogobia, described the awards as a recognition of individuals whose contributions have influenced Nigeria’s trajectory.
He acknowledged the country’s complexities, noting that while talent and ambition abound, systemic challenges often create contradictions where diligence is not always rewarded. Despite this, he praised honourees who have chosen integrity, perseverance and purpose, even in difficult circumstances.
Ajumogobia emphasised that the awards platform reflects both achievement and the imperfect realities of leadership, calling for a culture that values accountability, discipline and ethical success. He added that national progress depends on balancing recognition of excellence with a collective demand for higher standards.
“Celebrating the best of the best” — Eze Anaba
Editor of Vanguard and President of the Nigerian Guild of Editors, Eze Anaba, welcomed guests to the 14th edition of the awards, describing it as a celebration of individuals who have defied the odds.
He highlighted the rigorous 12-week nomination and screening process, noting that only the most deserving candidates emerge. According to him, the honourees represent resilience, innovation and dedication, having built industries, driven economic growth and projected Nigeria positively on the global stage.
Anaba urged attendees to draw inspiration from the awardees, describing them as examples of what can be achieved through discipline and commitment, even in challenging times.
Full list of awardees across sectors
The ceremony featured a broad spectrum of awards recognising contributions across public service, business and society.
In addition to Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, Personality of the Year honours were also awarded to Sayyu Dantata.
Lifetime Achievement Awards were presented to distinguished Nigerians including Jim Nwobodo; Oladapo Afolabi; Bruce Onobrakpeya; Vincent Ebuh; Cecilia Ibru; Kofoworola Bucknor-Akerele; Vincent Maduka; Jim Ovia; Samuel Adedoyin; and Matthew Kukah.
Other major awardees included Alfred Temile (Businessman of the Year), Vicky Hastrup (Woman Entrepreneur of the Year), and Osahon Okunbo (Young Entrepreneur of the Year).
Governors Bassey Otu, Dauda Lawal, Agbu Kefas, Uba Sani and Mai Mala Buni were recognised with Good Governance Awards for delivering democratic dividends.
Additional honours went to Chris Iyovwaye (Logistics Icon), Victor Wayles Egukawhore (Blue Economy Icon), National Emergency Management Agency (Humanitarian Agency of the Year), Information Minister Mohammed Idris (Image Maker of the Year), and Selem Adegunwa (Industrialist of the Year).
Further recognitions included Festus Keyamo (Public Sector Icon), Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim (Women Affairs Advocate), Bashir Bayo Ojulari (Energy Innovation and Reformation Icon), Iroghama Ogbeifun (Maritime Icon), Niger Delta Development Commission (Intervention Agency of the Year), Chijioke Ezeugwu (Grassroots Development Icon), Onyeka Nzekwesi (Urban Development Icon), Renaissance Africa Energy Ltd (Company of the Year), Oluwatobi Ajayi (Auto Icon), Stephen Akintayo (Real Estate Icon), Ahonsi Unuigbe (Energy Icon), and Victor Nwokeji (Private Sector Icon).
Mbah praises Nwobodo’s legacy
Governor of Enugu State, Peter Mbah, described Nwobodo’s recognition as well deserved, noting his enduring legacy across the South-East. He highlighted the former governor’s achievements at just 39, when he governed a region that now comprises Anambra, Enugu and Ebonyi states.
Mbah also referenced Nwobodo’s national service, including his tenure as Minister of Youth and Sports during which Nigeria won the Olympic Cup, as well as his time in the Senate, where he demonstrated patriotism and courage.
Kukah calls for unity, national identity
In a keynote reflection on Nigeria’s challenges, Bishop Matthew Kukah urged citizens to prioritise national identity over religious and ethnic divisions. He stressed that Nigerians are first citizens before adopting religious identities, calling for unity as a prerequisite for progress.
Kukah warned that persistent divisions continue to hinder development and called on both leaders and citizens to promote fairness, justice and inclusivity through strong institutions and deliberate policies.
Bucknor-Akerele raises concerns on democracy, women participation
Former Lagos State deputy governor Kofoworola Bucknor-Akerele expressed surprise at receiving her award but used the moment to highlight concerns about Nigeria’s democratic journey.
She noted that the struggle to strengthen democracy remains ongoing and criticised the high cost of political participation, which she said disproportionately affects women. She urged reforms to encourage inclusivity ahead of the 2027 elections and called on Nigerians to elect leaders who prioritise the welfare of the people.
A night of celebration and reflection
Beyond the glamour, the event reinforced broader themes of accountability, resilience and national cohesion. It served not only as a celebration of achievements across generations but also as a platform for candid conversations about Nigeria’s future.
With a blend of honour, introspection and calls to action, the 2025 Vanguard Personality of the Year Awards highlighted both the progress made and the work still required to build a more inclusive, accountable and united nation.