Sanwo-Olu, others get recognition
Triangle News International has honoured Nigerian leaders at the 2025 Face of Africa Leadership Award in London for governance, enterprise, community development, youth empowerment, and international diplomacy.
According to a statement, the group held the third edition of the awards event at the RHB 300 Hall of Goldsmiths, University of London, under the theme, ‘Digital Governance: Opportunities and Challenges’.
In his opening remarks, the Chief Executive Officer of Triangle News International, Femi Salako, reaffirmed the organisation’s mission to spotlight African excellence, stating “Today, we celebrate leadership, excellence, and the enduring spirit of Africa.
“Our theme speaks directly to the times we live in, as Africa embraces the promise of the digital age… Let today ignite fresh ideas and lasting collaborations for a digitally driven, prosperous Africa.”
The ceremony recognised top Nigerian leaders for their outstanding impact, including Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Niger State Governor Mohammed Bago; Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa; and Nigeria’s Minister of Interior Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, who also served as Special Guest of Honour.
Meanwhile, the group named Wole Olanipekun (SAN) as the Personality of the Year and recognised youth advocate and entrepreneur Seyi Tinubu and Minister of Youth Ayodele Wisdom for their contributions to youth empowerment.
Other honourees included Sen. Orji Uzor Kalu (Abia North); Sen. Eteng Jonah Williams (Cross River Central); Chairman/CEO, Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, Abike Dabiri; and Chief Corporate Communications Officer, Nigerian National Petroleum Company Ltd, Femi Soneye.
In a keynote address titled ‘The Digital Economy in Africa: Opportunities and Challenges,’ global cybersecurity expert Prof. Ojo Ademola charged public and private stakeholders to invest in technology education, data governance, and inclusive access.
Another speaker, Fola Braimoh, reinforced the call for strategic leadership in deploying digital tools to accelerate economic and social transformation.
While addressing guests, the Interior Minister Tunji-Ojo commended the organisers for projecting a positive image of the continent, noting “This platform celebrates not just individuals, but the heart and spirit of our continent. I encourage Nigerians in the diaspora to keep representing our values with pride and integrity.”
The event attracted dignitaries including the Deputy Defence Adviser at the Nigeria High Commission in London, Commander Collins Mezeh and enjoyed international goodwill, with the Mayor of London sending a message of commendation.
“You gathered such a reputable crowd in the city of London — a testament to Africa’s rising global influence,” the Mayor stated.
Triangle News International described the 2025 edition as not just a celebration but “a clarion call to Africans, home and abroad, to dream bigger, lead boldly, and tell their stories with unshakable confidence.”
