Lagos is set to host a powerful convergence of Africa's most influential minds as the 13th edition of the GAH Awards & Business Summit prepares to unfold. Scheduled for December 12, 2025, at the prestigious Eko Hotels & Suites on Victoria Island, the event promises to be a landmark gathering focused on shaping the continent's future.
A Gathering of Titans for a Reimagined Africa
The summit, themed “Africa Reimagined: Innovation, Inclusion & Sustainable Growth,” will bring together a remarkable assembly of royalty, government officials, human rights advocates, and business leaders. Confirmed attendees include His Imperial Majesty, Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojájá II, who will serve as Grand Patron and Father of the Day.
The high-profile guest list also features Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal, and renowned human rights lawyer Femi Falana (SAN). From the business sector, giants like Air Peace CEO Dr. Allen Onyema and United Nigeria Airlines Chairman Prof. Obiora Okonkwo are among the confirmed dignitaries.
More Than an Awards Night: A Strategic Movement
During a press briefing in Lagos, the Convener and Executive Chair, Dr. Princess Kelechi Oghene, framed the event as a critical platform for action. “Africa is no longer a sleeping giant; Africa is reimagined – bold, innovative, inclusive, and limitless,” she declared. Oghene, who is also the Founder and Group CEO of GMYT Group, emphasized that the summit is designed to be a working session for Africa's best minds to collaboratively build the continent's future.
The agenda is deliberately aligned with major continental and global frameworks, including the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), the AU Agenda 2063, and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 8, 9, and 17. The day will be packed with high-level keynote addresses, panel sessions, and an exclusive Leaders' Lounge, culminating in a gala night and the release of a new continental anthem.
The GAH Elite Club Black Card: A Gateway to Influence
A significant highlight of the announcement was the unveiling of the GAH Elite Club Black Card, a premium Mastercard product launched in partnership with Wema Bank. Dr. Oghene clarified that the card's value extends far beyond luxury perks. “Its real value is the community it unlocks – a powerful circle of CEOs, policymakers, innovators and decision-makers who are actively rewriting the African story,” she explained. She described it as a strategic tool for gaining influence, visibility, and opportunity within this elite network.
The one-day event is expected to attract over 1,000 delegates from across Africa and the diaspora. Dr. Oghene extended an open invitation to corporate Nigeria, development partners, and government institutions, stressing that reimagining Africa requires collaborative platforms that connect industries and amplify voices.
Since its inception in 2012, the GAH platform has a proven track record, having:
- Honoured over 350 trailblazers.
- Empowered more than 12,000 women and youth.
- Generated over ₦700 million in media value.
- Welcomed more than 20,000 cumulative delegates across its twelve previous editions.
The 13th GAH Awards & Business Summit stands as a testament to the growing momentum behind African-led solutions and partnerships aimed at driving scalable progress in governance, technology, creative industries, and sustainable development.
