Nigerian Entertainers Sweep MIPAD 2025 Awards

The Most Influential People of African Descent (MIPAD) 2025 Awards and Dinner took place in Lagos, Nigeria, recognizing outstanding achievements across a range of fields. Held at The Library, the ceremony celebrated African excellence, leadership, creativity, and global impact, bringing together influential voices from entertainment, media, business, governance, culture, and innovation. By doing so, it reinforced Lagos’s position as a hub for African excellence and diaspora engagement.

The awards night was part of the Lagos Diaspora Experience 2025, a week‑long celebration of African art, culture, innovation, and global connection. Prior to the event, Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo‑Olu received the MIPAD Governor of the Year 2025 Award during a courtesy visit by the MIPAD delegation to Lagos House.

Among the honorees were several notable figures from the entertainment and media industries. Ebuka Obi‑Uchendu was named Media Personality of the Year, and Bovi Ugboma received the Comedian of the Year award. Juliet Ibrahim was recognized as Actor of the Year (Female), while D’banj took home the Music Platform of the Year award. Banky Wellington and Adesua Etomi‑Wellington were named Power Couple of the Year, and Bolanle Austen Peters received the Theatre Festival of the Year award. Additional winners included Kelechi Amadi Obi (Photographer of the Year), Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie (Author of the Year), Funke Akindele’s *Everybody Loves Jenifa* (Blockbuster Movie of the Year), Omoni Oboli’s *Love in Every Word 1 & 2* (Movie of the Year), and Wale Ojo (Filmmaker of the Year).

The MIPAD awards highlight the significant contributions of African individuals in various fields, showcasing their impact on a global scale. The event serves as a platform to celebrate and recognize excellence, reinforcing the importance of African diaspora engagement and cultural exchange. As Lagos continues to grow as a hub for African excellence, events like the MIPAD awards will play a crucial role in promoting and honoring the achievements of African individuals and communities worldwide.