The fourth edition of the Global Affairs Magazine Awards (GAMA) recently illuminated the Civic Centre on Victoria Island, Lagos, transforming the venue into a hub of inspiration. The ceremony, themed "Lighting the Way: Honouring Beacons of Hope," served as a powerful platform to recognise Nigerians whose dedication has profoundly shaped communities and individual lives.
A Celebration of Service and Impact
The GAMA Humanitarian Awards 2025 specifically honoured individuals and organisations for their measurable contributions across several critical areas. These included exceptional service, groundbreaking innovation, social development initiatives, women's empowerment, and crucial support for out-of-school children. The event underscored a core message: that genuine success is intrinsically linked to the well-being and upliftment of others.
In a significant move towards tangible change, the awards ceremony was not merely symbolic. GAMA empowered women entrepreneurs with resources to either launch or scale their businesses. Furthermore, in a direct effort to combat educational disparity, scholarships were awarded to out-of-school children. This initiative aims to reduce the number of children on the streets and guarantee equitable access to quality education, irrespective of background.
Vision and Voices from the Podium
Regina Robinson, the Convener of the GAMA awards, set the tone in her welcome address. She emphasised that the accolades are "earned through dedication, through service, and through a commitment to improving the lives of others." Reflecting on the journey that began four years ago, Robinson noted their vision was to create a platform that celebrates those using their influence, resources, and effort for life-changing causes.
"We want to amplify the stories of resilience, innovation, leadership, and humanitarian service—stories that often go unnoticed, yet continue to shape our society in meaningful ways," she stated.
Distinguished Awardees and Key Insights
The prestigious list of honourees featured a cross-section of leaders from academia, government, and regulatory bodies. Notable awardees included:
- Professor Jonathan Aremu, former Acting Vice-Chancellor of Covenant University and ECOWAS Consultant.
- Aro Abiodun Moshood, member representing Ikorodu Constituency II in the Lagos State House of Assembly.
- Professor Olateju Olawale, Dean of Postgraduate Studies at Lagos State University.
- Afolabi Solebo, Esq., General Manager of the Lagos State Consumer Protection Agency (LASCOPA).
Professor Jonathan Aremu, who also served as the Keynote Speaker, delivered an extensive address on "Transportation Logistics in Human–Environment Interaction under AfCFTA." Meanwhile, LASCOPA's General Manager, Afolabi Solebo, used the platform to sensitise attendees on the agency's role in protecting consumer rights, ensuring fair trade, and promoting responsible consumption within Lagos State.
A Gathering of Influencers for a Common Cause
The event attracted a wide array of dignitaries, underscoring its significance. Attendees included Capt. Dr. Giorgio Enrico Del Celo, Dr. Samuel Anyanwu, and representatives from prominent organisations such as Radio One, Alpha Pharmacy, Bloom Public Health, Starzs Investments Company Limited, Viewpoint Specialist Eye Centre, and LAPO Microfinance Bank. Other distinguished guests were Hon. Adebayo Afon, Abiodun Olubitan, Mabel Adeteye, Mrs. Wuraola Oloko-Amusan, Mrs. Happiness Obioha, and Chief Doris Chioma Denise-Akano.
The 2025 GAMA Humanitarian Awards concluded on a high note, successfully blending a celebration of excellence with strategic networking. The evening reinforced a collective pledge among participants to continue advancing the critical work of humanitarian service across Nigeria and the broader African continent.
