The vibrant city of Lagos was the epicentre of African excellence over the weekend as The Future Awards Africa (TFAA) 2025 celebrated the continent's most promising young leaders. The 19th edition of this prestigious event, held under the powerful theme "Threads of Legacy," recognized outstanding individuals driving change across technology, entrepreneurship, sports, and the arts.
A Night of Stars and Celebration
Hosted by popular actor Mike Afolarin and celebrated media personality Azeezah Hashim, the ceremony was a dazzling confluence of entertainment, business, and public service. Ayodeji Razaq, the Executive Director of TFAA, framed the event as a significant moment at the crossroads of history and destiny. He emphasized that for two decades, the awards have been more than a ceremony; they are a mission to prove to young Africans that their greatness is tangible and present now.
The awards spanned 20 diverse categories, showcasing the incredible breadth of talent emerging from the continent. In the world of sports, Super Falcons forward Rasheedat Ajibade was honoured for her remarkable contributions to football. The content creation category was won by the talented Mariam "Taaooma" Apaokagi.
Honouring Icons and Emerging Voices
A special moment of the night was the presentation of the Honorary Prize for Service to Young People to veteran comedian Ali Baba. This award acknowledged his decades of mentorship and unwavering support for Nigeria's creative industry.
The prestigious Young Person of the Year award was given to Dr. Fola David, a medical doctor and visual artist acclaimed for his powerful work that merges art with social advocacy. His win highlights the growing impact of multidisciplinary approaches to societal change.
The Complete List of 2025 Winners
Here is a full rundown of the exceptional winners from The Future Awards Africa 2025 ceremony:
- Entrepreneurship: Tomike Adeoye
- On-Air Personality: Azeezah Hashim (Kenya)
- Technology: Kelvin Umechukwu
- Acting: Adebowale Adedayo
- Music: Okeowo Oladotun Alani
- Film: Oluwadamilola Apampa
- Literature: Adedayo Agarau
- Arts: Ayobola Kekere-Ekun
- Journalism: Madina Dahiru Maishanu
- Health and Wellness: Funmilola Aderemi
- Governance: Daniel Otabor
- Law: Ogenetega Adedipe
- Agriculture: Adetiloye Aiyeola
- Education: John Onuigbo
- Community Action: Hammed Kayode Alabi
- Photography: Amazing Klef
- Performing Arts: Big Bimi
- Intrapreneurship: Solomon Ayodele
- Professional Service: Bode Roberts
- Awards for Creativity and Innovation: Taiwo Abisoye Joel
The 2025 TFAA successfully wove together the "Threads of Legacy" by honouring a new generation that is actively building a brighter future for Africa. The event not only celebrated past achievements but also powerfully ignited inspiration for the milestones yet to come.
