The Landmark Event Centre in Lagos was the setting for the highly anticipated Future Awards Africa (TFAA) 2025 on Sunday. Under the theme “Threads of Legacy,“ the 19th annual ceremony celebrated the continent’s most influential young innovators and leaders.
The entire evening was dedicated to recognizing outstanding youth achievements across diverse areas like sports, technology, governance, and the arts.
Hosted by media personality Azeezah Hashim and accomplished actor Mike Afolarin, the event successfully mixed sophistication and recognition, drawing leading personalities from the creative and business worlds.
Major Wins for Digital and Athletic Stars
The prestigious awards highlighted exceptional talent from various fields across Africa.
- Digital creator Mariam Apaokagi, known widely as “Taaooma,” secured the prize for Content Creation, an acknowledgment of her massive influence on digital platforms.
- Rasheedat Ajibade, the talented Super Falcons forward, earned the Prize for Sports, recognizing her remarkable contributions to African and Nigerian football.
Recognizing Lasting Influence
A special moment during the evening was the presentation of an honorary award for lifelong impact. Veteran comedian Ali Baba was honored with the Prize for Service to Young People.
This award celebrated his deep commitment to mentorship spanning decades and his powerful role in shaping the creative industry for emerging generations.
The Peak of the Night: Honoring the Year’s Best
The event culminated with the announcement of the Young Person of the Year. The esteemed title went to Fola David, a medical doctor and visual artist.
He was recognized for his unique ability to combine medical expertise with artistic passion, driving significant social impact through his creative endeavors.
Celebrating Pioneers in Various Fields
The comprehensive roster of winners demonstrated the dynamic spirit and broad talent of Africa’s upcoming leaders. Successes were highlighted across creative, technical, and service professions:
- Taiwo Abisoye Joel was distinguished in Creativity and Innovation.
- Amazing Klef earned recognition for Photography, and Ayobola Kekere-Ekun was celebrated in Arts.
Impact in Public Life and Essential Services
Several crucial areas saw new achievers recognized:
- Awards in education and journalism went to John Onuigbo and Madina Dahiru Maishanu, respectively.
- Funmilola Aderemi was celebrated for her work in Health and Wellness.
- In the service categories, Hammed Kayode Alabi received the award for Community Action.
- Solomon Ayodele received two honors: one for Activism and Advocacy and another for Intrapreneurship.
The Builders of Commerce and Governance
The ceremony recognized the individuals steering Africa’s economy and public administration:
- Tomike Adeoye was honored for Entrepreneurship.
- Kelvin Umechukwu was awarded for his impact in Technology.
- The Law prize went to Ogenetega Adedipe, and Daniel Otabor secured the award for Governance.
Stars of the Creative Sector and Lifestyle
The creative industries brought forward multiple celebrated stars:
- Adedayo Agarau won the Literature award.Oluwadamilola Apampa was recognized in Film, and Adebowale Adedayo received the prize for Acting.
- The music scene celebrated Okeowo Oladotun Alani for Music, and Big Bimi for Performing Arts.
- In the lifestyle space, Richmond Barnes won the award for Fashion. Azeezah Hashim (Kenya) was named the top On-Air Personality.
Excellence in Professional and Food Production Fields
Closing out the acknowledgments were winners in professional and foundational sectors:
- The Professional Service prize went to Bode Roberts.
- Adetiloye Aiyeola was celebrated for his contributions to the vital Agriculture sector.
