The CEOs Network Africa has announced 140 finalists across 17 categories for its highly anticipated Gala & Dinner Night 2025, following an impressive 15,000 nominations from across the continent.
The prestigious event is scheduled to take place on December 14, 2025, at the National Assembly Library Trust Fund, NASS Complex, Abuja.
Awards Committee Chairman, Barr. Chimdi Neliaku, expressed profound admiration for the extraordinary quality of entries received:
“We received over 15,000 nominations from across Nigeria and the African continent—an overwhelming testament to the depth of talent, innovation, and leadership emerging in our youth. The richness and diversity of these submissions made the selection process exceptionally challenging.
Every nomination told a compelling story of resilience, creativity, and impact. Narrowing down to just 140 finalists required weeks of rigorous evaluation, tough debates, and difficult decisions. We were consistently inspired, often moved, and ultimately humbled by the caliber of young leaders stepping forward to shape Africa’s future.
The awards will recognize outstanding achievements in Agriculture, Beauty and Fashion, Break-out 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, Visual Art and Media.
The annual celebration brings together Africa’s leading innovators, policymakers, and entrepreneurs to honor 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 defining moment, one marked by reinvention, resilience, and reimagination. This year’s gala celebrates leaders who are not just 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 demonstrates 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 exemplify 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.