Lagos is set to host a historic celebration of African excellence as the Most Influential People of African Descent (MIPAD) brings its flagship recognition platform home for the first time.
The Lagos Diaspora Experience 2025, a week-long celebration of African art, culture, innovation, and global connections, will culminate in the End of the Year Awards & Celebration on Sunday, December 21, 2025.
A key highlight of the event is the recognition of Dr. Karl Toriola, Chief Executive Officer of MTN Nigeria, as the 2025 MIPAD CEO of the Year.
Toriola, who is being honored for his transformative leadership and profound impact on Nigeria’s telecommunications and digital economy, will also deliver the keynote address at the awards ceremony.
His recognition underscores his role in driving innovation, expanding digital access, and shaping the future of the telecom sector in Africa.
The week-long program will feature a series of curated events, including Diaspora Day at the Fela Exhibition (Afrobeat Meets Diaspora), Cultural Heritage Day, and Business Leadership Luncheons, bringing together African leaders, innovators, and creatives from around the world.
The awards evening will celebrate individuals and institutions whose work has advanced global African achievement and Black excellence across business, government, media, culture, and technology.
Other notable honorees include Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and Lagos State as City of the Year, Minister Hannatu Musa Musawa as Minister of the Year, Olorì Atúwàtse III as Most Influential Woman of the Year, and Adewale Tinubu as Most Influential Man of the Year.
In the entertainment and media space, accolades will go to Uche Pedro (Lifestyle Personality of the Year), Ojy Okpe (Most Influential News Anchor), Stephanie Busari (Media Executive of the Year), and Davido (Artist of the Year), among others.
Commenting on the significance of the event, Kamil Olufowobi, Founder & Chairman of MIPAD, said: “For the first time, we’re bringing our world-famous recognition platform home to celebrate excellence within the Global Africa Family — right here in Lagos.
This is more than an event; it’s a movement uniting the best of us — connecting, collaborating, and working together to change the world.”
Dr. Toriola’s recognition as CEO of the Year highlights the critical role of visionary leadership in Nigeria’s corporate and digital transformation journey.
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