The 2025 Nigeria Golden Hearts Awards International will be held on September 14 at the Hilton Leeds City Hotel in the United Kingdom.
This year’s edition will honour prominent Nigerian leaders, including Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Abia State Governor Alex Otti, for their outstanding service and leadership.
The event, according to a statement by the organisers, celebrates excellence, public service, and responsible governance. The Executive Director, Festus Odunze, explained that the ceremony will focus on individuals whose actions have improved lives and promoted a better image for Nigeria globally.
The Senate President is being recognised for helping to maintain order and direction in the National Assembly. He is also praised for advancing legislative projects that support President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. His leadership has been seen as central to ongoing efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s democratic institutions.
Governor Alex Otti of Abia State will receive an award for his efforts in infrastructure development and reforms that are transforming the state. His government is known for improving roads, boosting education, and introducing transparency in public finances.
Honours for Public Figures, Diaspora Icons, and Reformers
Also receiving awards is Abigail Marshall Katung, the 130th Mayor of Leeds and the first African to ever hold that office. She will be honoured for her political rise and the impact she has had in promoting inclusivity and diversity in public service abroad.
Mary-Maudline Nwifuru, the First Lady of Ebonyi State, will be celebrated for her dedication to gender equality and maternal healthcare. Her programmes have focused on helping women access better medical support and leadership opportunities.
Others to be honoured include Senate Minority Leader Patrick Abba Moro, Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong, Hon. Kama Nkemkanma, and Hon. Bello El-Rufai. Each of them has contributed to legislative growth and community development in their various constituencies.
Hon. George Alli, a former council chairman known for grassroots development; Rev. Godfrey Osemwegie, a UK-based faith leader; and Dr. Raymond Asemakaha, a development consultant, will also be honoured. The list also includes Prof. Obiora Okonkwo, an industrialist with interests in education, aviation, and job creation.
Event Theme, Magazine Launch, and Nigerian Diaspora Engagement
The theme of the 2025 awards is “Celebrating the Giant Strides of Unsung Heroes.” This reflects the aim of recognising those who may not always receive public applause but are changing lives through their service and achievements.
The event will also see the release of the 9th edition of the Nigeria Golden Hearts Magazine. This year’s edition will feature Akpabio on the cover, with stories about his political journey and efforts to stabilise Nigeria’s legislative system.
Organisers say the awards are designed to encourage good leadership and shift the global conversation about Nigeria away from negative stereotypes. The ceremony will also create opportunities for the honourees to meet and engage with Nigerians living in the UK.
The Nigeria Golden Hearts Awards has grown in reputation over the years for identifying individuals who show commitment to service, innovation, and nation-building.
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