Join Us For An Extraordinary Gala Celebrating The 2nd Nigerians in Diaspora Awards On Saturday, November 30th, 2024, at the Renaissance Paris Hotel La Defense Valmy in France.
Join Us For An Extraordinary Gala Celebrating The 2nd Nigerians in Diaspora Awards On Saturday, November 30th, 2024, at the Renaissance Paris Hotel La Defense Valmy in France.
The Nigerians in Diaspora Awards (NIDA) Gala is dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the outstanding achievements of Nigerians living abroad across various fields. This platform seeks to raise awareness and promote a positive narrative regarding the contributions of the Nigerian diaspora,
ultimately inspiring future generations to pursue excellence. The NIDA Gala specifically honors individuals committed to revitalizing their spheres of influence, communities and making a significant global impact across a wide array of categories.
The inaugural NIDA ceremony took place on October 2, 2023, at the esteemed L'Hôtel de l'Industrie in central Paris. The event was attended by notable guests, including the Ambassador of the Permanent Delegation of Nigeria to UNESCO, officials from the Embassy of Nigeria in Paris, the CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), representatives from the Lagos State Government, and over 150 distinguished Nigerians from various sectors, particularly those based in European countries.
With great anticipation, the 2nd edition of the Nigerians in Diaspora Awards and Gala is scheduled for November 30, 2024, at the Renaissance Paris Hotel La Défense Valmy in Paris, France. The 2024 NIDA gala is expected to be even more spectacular, with an anticipated attendance of over 200 prominent Nigerians from diverse fields within the diaspora. It will feature a variety of awards, each recognizing the remarkable accomplishments of individuals and organizations. Additionally, it promises to be a festive evening celebrating Nigerian gastronomy, music, arts, and culture.
The Nigerians in Diaspora Awards (NIDA) Gala is dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the outstanding achievements of Nigerians living abroad across various fields. This platform seeks to raise awareness and promote a positive narrative regarding the contributions of the Nigerian diaspora,
ultimately inspiring future generations to pursue excellence. The NIDA Gala specifically honors individuals committed to revitalizing their spheres of influence, communities and making a significant global impact across a wide array of categories.
The inaugural NIDA ceremony took place on October 2, 2023, at the esteemed L'Hôtel de l'Industrie in central Paris. The event was attended by notable guests, including the Ambassador of the Permanent Delegation of Nigeria to UNESCO, officials from the Embassy of Nigeria in Paris, the CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), representatives from the Lagos State Government, and over 150 distinguished Nigerians from various sectors, particularly those based in European countries.
With great anticipation, the 2nd edition of the Nigerians in Diaspora Awards and Gala is scheduled for November 30, 2024, at the Renaissance Paris Hotel La Défense Valmy in Paris, France. The 2024 NIDA gala is expected to be even more spectacular, with an anticipated attendance of over 200 prominent Nigerians from diverse fields within the diaspora. It will feature a variety of awards, each recognizing the remarkable accomplishments of individuals and organizations. Additionally, it promises to be a festive evening celebrating Nigerian gastronomy, music, arts, and culture.
Celebrates achievements of Nigerians abroad in business, welfare, and diaspora support.
Connect with high-profile Nigerians, business leaders, professionals, and influencers. Opportunities for partnerships, mentorship, and business collaborations.
Celebrates Nigerian culture, heritage, and accomplishments. Fosters unity and collaboration among Nigerians abroad.
Inspires through the success stories and innovative ideas of the awardees. Supports the Nigerian community and recognizes impactful contributions.
Provides a festive experience with red carpet photo sessions, music, dance, and showcases. Features gourmet 3-course Nigerian dishes.
Celebrates achievements of Nigerians abroad in business, welfare, and diaspora support.
Connect with high-profile Nigerians, business leaders, professionals, and influencers. Opportunities for partnerships, mentorship, and business collaborations.
Celebrates Nigerian culture, heritage, and accomplishments. Fosters unity and collaboration among Nigerians abroad.
Inspires through the success stories and innovative ideas of the awardees. Supports the Nigerian community and recognizes impactful contributions.
Provides a festive experience with red carpet photo sessions, music, dance, and showcases. Features gourmet 3-course Nigerian dishes.
Dr. Chidiebere E.X. Ikejemba
Award Recipient: Dr. Chidiebere E.X. Ikejemba
is the Director and Climate & Environment Sector Lead at Camber Collective, where he leads transformative projects at the intersection of climate, agriculture, and immunization across Africa and Asia. A seasoned leader in climate adaptation and sustainable development, Dr. Ikejemba focuses on creating resilient systems to improve health outcomes, food security, and sustainable economic opportunities in developing countries.
With over a decade of experience, he has driven initiatives to enhance access to education, nutrition, and healthcare for underserved communities. His work includes supporting global organizations in designing climate-health strategies to address pressing challenges, leveraging evidence-based approaches to drive impactful change.
Dr. Ikejemba holds a Ph.D. in Industrial Engineering and Business Information Systems from the University of Twente, where his research centered on sustainable development mechanisms. He also holds an MSc in Industrial Engineering and Management, as well as a BSc in Industrial Engineering, along with a Bachelor in information technology.
Beyond his professional work, Dr. Ikejemba is committed to charitable initiatives in Nigeria and Sub-Saharan Africa and mentors young Africans in Europe. In his free time, he enjoys going to the gym, reading, and analyzing global trends in climate and development and global finance. Recognized for his results-driven approach and commitment to sustainability, Dr. Ikejemba inspires cross-functional teams across diverse, multicultural environments.
Dr. Ozak Ejiofor (née Esu)
Award Recipient: Dr. Ozak Ejiofor (née Esu)
is an award-winning Chartered Electronic & Electrical Engineer and STEM Ambassador. Born and raised in Nigeria, at 17, she moved to the UK in 2008 to study at Loughborough University, graduating with a first-class degree in 2011. She then earned a scholarship for her Ph.D. in renewable energy and embedded technology, pioneering technology to detect wind turbine blade damage.
In 2014, Ozak joined Cundall, leading electrical building services engineering design and installation for award-winning construction projects across Europe, the Middle East and Africa (EMEA). Her contributions earned her numerous accolades, including being named in The Telegraph’s “Top 50 Women in Engineering (WE50)” and receiving the prestigious Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET)’s Young Woman Engineer of the Year Award and the Mike Sargeant Medal in 2017.
In 2019, Ozak joined BRE, leading research at the Centre for Smart Homes and Buildings on IoTs, BIM, and the National Digital Twin. After 12 years in the UK, she relocated to Switzerland in 2021 to join Hilti at its Corporate Research & Technology Centre in Liechtenstein, as a Technical Project Manager R&D.
In 2023, she was promoted to her current role as Chief Service Owner, Integrated Project Solutions, responsible for developing and managing the E2E service.
Ozak has been featured in global media, including African Development Bank, AfroTech, Cosmopolitan, Huffington Post, The Daily Mail, The Guardian UK, The Guardian Life Nigeria, The Telegraph, and Wikipedia. She is a Member of the IET where she has served in numerous governance, partnership and leadership positions, and currently serves as the Communities Committee EMEA Chair (2022–2025).
In her spare time, Ozak presents at Climate Now, a multimedia platform championing climate change mitigation and the energy transition. She is passionate about advancing society through education and sustainable engineering.
Muftau Femi Ajose
Muftau Femi Ajose is a visionary fashion designer renowned for his innovative designs and meticulous attention to detail. With a deep passion for blending contemporary trends with timeless elegance, Muftau has built a reputation for crafting unique, wearable art that resonates with diverse audiences.
His journey in fashion began with a profound appreciation for textiles and craftsmanship, which he has refined through years of experience and dedication to his craft. Muftau’s designs reflect his ability to tell compelling stories through fabric, color, and silhouette, creating pieces that embody sophistication and individuality.
In addition to his creative prowess, Muftau is skilled in managing the full spectrum of design, from concept development to production, ensuring each piece meets the highest standards of quality. His commitment to sustainability and ethical practices further underscores his role as a forward-thinking leader in the fashion industry.
Whether designing bespoke creations or ready-to-wear collections, Muftau Femi Ajose continues to inspire and captivate clients and audiences alike with his artistry and unwavering dedication to excellence.
Péjú Oshin
Péjú Oshin is a British-Nigerian curator, writer, educator and public speaker born and raised in London. With her visionary approach, she is redefining the boundaries of art, style, and culture, while championing the narratives of the African diaspora and exploring the depths of liminal theory.
Péjú’s career in the arts began in 2015. Throughout her journey, she has displayed an unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of artistic expression. Her exhibitions and public programming have engaged audiences worldwide and include the Workshop Artists in Residence programme.
Notably, Péjú curated the critically acclaimed Gagosian exhibition, Rites of Passage (2023) uniting nineteen artists with shared stories of migration. Her curatorial practice transcends conventional norms, inviting viewers to traverse uncharted territories and creating space for critical dialogue.
With a background in Architecture & Design, Péjú brings a unique perspective to her work, seamlessly blending her academic acumen with her passion for the arts. Her journey led her to complete a PgCert in Academic Practice in Art, Design, and Communication at the University of the Arts London, where she earned her status as an Associate Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (AFHEA). As an Associate Lecturer at Central Saint Martins, Péjú has shared the breadth of her knowledge from art to architecture and fashion history with emerging artists and designers. She has also delivered guest lectures across various colleges within the university. In 2020, she served as a visiting Critic at the Royal College of Art for the School of Painting.
As a writer, she has authored texts for artists, which have been featured in exhibitions and solo presentations internationally. Additionally, Péjú has been commissioned to write for various platforms including the Financial Times.
Beyond the confines of galleries and classrooms, Péjú is a vocal advocate, a mentor to emerging talent. She actively participates in committees and serves as a judge for cultural initiatives, highlighting her commitment to reshaping the artistic landscape and amplifying voices that have long been marginalized.
In 2021, she was shortlisted for the Forbes 30 Under 30 Europe list in the Arts & Culture category. She was also nominated and selected as one of fifteen members of AWITA (Art Women in the Arts) sponsored by Martin Millers Gin, the Adara Foundation, and Hauser & Wirth in the same year.
Currently, Péjú serves as Associate Director at Gagosian (2022-Present) is a trustee of iniva (Institute of International Visual Arts), a member of the ArtFund Curatorial Diversity Steering Group and an Associate Patron of the Photographers Gallery.
Dr. Taiwo Raphael Tejumola
Dr. Taiwo Raphael Tejumola is a Lecturer in the Department of Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering at the University of Southampton, UK, where he focuses on advancing research in space systems engineering. Prior to joining Southampton, he served as an Assistant Professor and head of the Space Payload Laboratory at the International Space University in France, where he led research initiatives on innovative satellite payloads and multidisciplinary space studies for over five years.
Dr. Taiwo began his career at the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA) in Nigeria. There, he made significant contributions to the Nigerian space sector, most notably leading a team of Nigerian engineers in the development and operation of NigeriaEduSat-1, Nigeria’s first university CubeSat Launched into space on 3rd June 2017, onboard SpaceX Falcon 9FT, CRS-11 Rocket from the Kennedy Space centre.
This groundbreaking project marked a key milestone for Nigerian space engineering and highlighted Dr. Taiwo’s commitment to capacity building in Nigeria. He has also contributed and supported several space engineering capacity development projects in Angola and Ethiopia.
He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Electrical & Electronics Engineering from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Nigeria, and earned both an MSc and Ph.D. in Space Systems Engineering from the Kyushu Institute of Technology in Japan. Dr. Taiwo’s research primarily explores the design and development of plasma instrumentation for small satellites, aiming to advance scientific understanding and practical applications of space plasma.
In addition to his technical expertise, Dr. Taiwo is deeply committed to promoting diversity and inclusion within the space industry, with a focus on supporting underrepresented groups. His professional interests span plasma science, space systems engineering, small satellite development, and project management. Dr. Taiwo has published extensively in international peer-reviewed journals, contributing valuable insights to the field of space technology and its applications.
Adeola Soyemi
Adeola Soyemi is a talented singer-songwriter based in Paris. Her music is a captivating fusion of Soul, Afro, and cinematic and electro-pop elements, creating a truly unique auditory experience for her audience.
With notable releases such as “Dragon on Fire” and “Lost” and “Falling,” Adeola’s artistry has garnered attention for its powerful melodies and poignant lyrics.
Her mission with music is to craft melodies and lyrics that take listeners on a transformative journey, sparking their imagination and transporting them to new realms of emotion and introspection.
At the core of her artistic mission is the desire to create music that transcends boundaries and takes audiences to new and unexplored territories. Each melody, each lyric is meticulously crafted to evoke powerful emotions and spark the imagination. Beyond music, Adeola is a speaker, writer and tourism professional.
Hakeem Adesanya
Hakeem Adesanya’s story begins in Lagos, Nigeria, where he spent his early years. Even then, he had one foot in England, where his mother worked.
This duality, or enrichment depending on one’s perspective, continued as he moved to Belgium, driven by love. Belgium became his home base, especially after the arrival of his three children.
Hakeem is committed to making a difference both in Nigeria and in Belgium Izegem, the West Flemish city where he currently resides. In Nigeria, he focuses on developing real estate, helping street children find new homes, and building a community network where he listens and assists wherever possible.
In his hometown in Belgium, Hakeem is known as a true bridge-builder. His mission is to make everyone in his city feel at home by connecting different cultures and introducing them to the nuances of West Flanders. To achieve this, Hakeem has run for the municipal council twice. Together with his fellow candidates, they are building a city where everyone can find their place.
Hakeem’s two football-playing sons and dancing daughter also serve as perfect instruments for fostering connections in the community. His dedication to both his native and adopted homes exemplifies his commitment to building inclusive and supportive communities.
Adeola Adeleye-Fasubaa
Adeola Adeleye-Fasubaa is a Speaker, Strategic Leadership and Relationship Coach, she has, over the years, been actively involved in the promotion of Diasporan/Community interests and services both within and outside the country.
She is a Legal/Alternative Dispute Resolution practitioner who specializes in Construction Law, Arbitration and Adjudication.
She is also a Total Well-Being Advocate and Mentor with particular interest in Women, Youth and Disability Rights/Awareness. Further, she is a Behavioural, Lifestyle and Emotional Intelligence Counsellor, offering bespoke sessions. This includes facilitating motivational workshops encouraging women to ‘Age Gracefully’.
A former Broadcaster/Journalist (Television and Print media), Adeola has attended several Conferences and Trainings, with several papers delivered. A recipient of several Awards, she is an Ambassador for Peace – through the Universal Peace Federation, UK (an organization in permanent consultative status with the United Nations), ECOWAS Youth Ambassador, as well as UNDP/Merit Ambassador.
She is a philanthropist and humanitarian who sits on the Board of several organizations, nationally and internationally – giving support and adding value to those bodies from her vast knowledge and experience of working in and heading various high-profile positions in the British Civil Service for over 20 years. This included being the first person of African descent to manage the Custom House, Gravesend, UK.
A passionate Youth Advocate and Mentor, she founded the Oasis Empowerment & Advocacy Foundation, Nigeria and the Oasis Organization, UK who have active campaigns against Gun and Knife Crime in the UK, and Juvenile Drug Addiction and Gender crimes in Nigeria.
In October 2023, she was appointed as the pioneer Director-General, Ekiti Diaspora Relations of Ekiti State Government, Nigeria.
She has since then travelled widely promoting Ekiti State, uniting Ekitis in the Diaspora and projecting the inclusive and dynamic government of Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji of Ekiti State.
Juliana Olayinka
Over the past two decades I have worked incredibly hard to reach the highest levels of the two sectors that I am most passionate about, media and strategic communications.
I have extensive experience writing for a global audience, turning complex information into engaging content and managing multiple projects simultaneously. Developing stories that positively impact the lives of young people, women and Africans as a whole, has always been and continues to be my purpose.
As a strategic communications consultant I have worked with several high-net-worth individuals and government bodies across the African continent.
My previous engagements have focused on team building, optimising cross-sector partnerships, maximising stakeholder mapping, boosting fledging campaigns and transforming underwhelming digital reputations.
I have proven experience in managing politically sensitive relationships with different stakeholders. I have moderated several high-level panels on behalf of The African Union, The Nigerian Federal Government, The British Council, and the British Government.
My master’s degree in Global Diplomacy from SOAS University of London has also become a great tool to navigate high-level discourse. Since graduating with a degree in Journalism from the University of Arts London, I have worked in the world’s leading newsrooms, and I have a proven track record of ensuring that the compelling images and text that I curate resonate with those whose stories are rarely heard on the global stage.
For nearly four years I have been the anchor and executive producer of a weekly business show, Channels Business Global. The show airs on Channels Television, the world’s widest reaching emerging markets news channel. High-profile interviews include HRH Prince Edward the Duke of Edinburgh, The Commonwealth Secretary-General Baroness Patricia Scotland, Former Mauritian President Dr. Ammenah Gurib-Fakim and the President of Nigeria Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
During my time at Channels, I have led a diverse team of up to 20 individuals working in Europe and Africa. Excellent organisation has been crucial, and my role as the London Bureau Chief requires vision-setting, strategic planning, and a genuine passion for Africa. I am proud to say that I lead by example, and have successfully created an atmosphere of effective productivity, world leading output and attention-to-detail as standard.
Propel
Africa has the potential to become the world’s tech powerhouse, having the youngest population on the planet. But it’s currently moving towards a population crisis, not having enough jobs for its growing youth population.
Propel is solving this problem. They have built a platform to curate specialized talent communities across Africa (think training schools, developer groups, tech hubs, peer-to-peer learning groups etc) and extend to their members – global jobs & opportunities, targeted finance, learning resources and more. Through this platform, they have curated the largest ecosystem of tech communities in Africa, and matched thousands of Africans to jobs at European companies like Orange, Porsche, Mercedes, Stepstone and more.
The Propel Platform is used by 250+ tech communities spread across 22 countries serving over 800,000+ members – some examples include SheCodeAfrica, Google Developer Groups, Moringa School and more.
If we can help African communities scale their impact, connect deeper on a local level and get more people into tech, we can avert a crisis, impact millions of young Africans in the process, and turn a looming problem into a definitive opportunity – for Africa itself, and for the world. Propel’s goal is to make Africa the most sought-after continent for knowledge talent globally within the next decade.
Mr. Kachi Nwanna
Award Recipient: Mr. Kachi Nwanna is the European Director of Financial Services at BSR, where he leads the EMEA region. With a distinguished career in sustainable finance, he previously worked in BNP Paribas CIB and held a managerial role at Moody’s, specialising in ESG outreach and research. Mr Nwanna holds an impressive educational profile, including an MBA in Energy Management and Sustainability, and he is certified in ESG investing by CFA UK. He is a distinguished leader in the realm of sustainable finance and ESG expertise.
Mrs. Tolulope Ayeni
Award Recipient: Mrs. Tolulope Ayeni is currently the Director of Product at Egencia, she’s also a mentor, educator, and international speaker on management and leadership. Mrs Ayeni is a Fellow at the European Women in Leadership Network dedicated to women’s development.
Her diverse educational background includes studies at Babcock University and renowned institutions like ESIEE Paris and Oxford University’s Saïd Business School. Beyond her career, she enjoys adventure, from co-piloting planes to cycling long distances.
Prof. Akinloye Bamigboye
Award Recipient: Prof. Akinloye Bamigboye is a globally recognised medical professional with extensive experience spanning continents. He received his medical education in Nigeria and further training in South Africa and England. His career has been marked by pioneering medical interventions, including reducing surgical pain and post-childbirth bleeding. Beyond medicine, he’s a mentor, a leader in Nigerian associations abroad and a philanthropist who has invested in education and healthcare in Nigeria. His LouisMed Specialist Hospital in Lagos addresses medical tourism, and he actively participates in social initiatives, including aiding victims during xenophobic attacks in South Africa. Prof. Akinloye Bamigboye is a distinguished figure known for his contributions to healthcare, education, and community service.
Dr. Jude Edeh
Award Recipient: Dr. Jude Edeh is a renowned professor at the INSEEC School of Economics and Business in Paris. With a Ph.D. from the University of Sevilla, his expertise lies in Innovation Economics and Internationalization. Notably, he received recognition for his work on innovation strategies’ impact on exports. He has held academic positions in prestigious institutions. His research areas include innovation, digital transformation, sustainability, and technology diffusion. He’s authored two books, published articles, and provides consulting and advisory services. As a co-founder of Greenage Energy Africa, he’s made significant strides in green energy solutions across Africa. Dr. Jude Edeh’s work aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
Mr. Wale Gbadamosi-Oyekanmi
Award Recipient: Mr. Wale Gbadamosi-Oyekanmi is a visionary marketer and adventurer based in Paris. He is currently the Chairman of Media.Monks Paris. His career took flight at renowned companies like TF6, Endemol, and COYOTE, where he excelled in creating and adapting television and web programs.
Mr. Wale also founded Darewin, an agency focused on reimagining brand content strategies through bold and innovative experiences. His agency has collaborated with prestigious brands such as Netflix, Nike, Google, and others. He was named the Advertising Professional of the Year in 2022, solidifying his leadership in the ever-evolving digital landscape.
Ambassador Laro
Award Recipient: Ambassador Laro: In honoring the memory of the late Ambassador of Nigeria to France- His Excellency, Kayode Laro who passed on 11 August 2023. Ambassador Laro was a skilled diplomat and leader who implemented significant changes at the Nigerian Embassy in Paris. Assigned as Ambassador in 2021 after retiring from a distinguished 35-year career, Ambassador Laro held key roles including Consul General in Atlanta and positions at the UN. He was known for his knowledge and ability to foster strategic partnerships for nation-building. During his tenure in France he extended passport and consular services across multiple French cities, engaging with the Nigerian diaspora to collect feedback for service improvements. His efforts bolstered France-Nigeria relations and supported innovative initiatives within the diaspora.
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