Awards & categories

Four award categories recognising Nigerians abroad in business, diaspora impact, professional life, sport and the creative industries.

Three men in black tie holding a NIDA trophy

Business Awards

Celebrating excellence in business and recognizing outstanding achievements in entrepreneurship and innovative startups.

  1. Entrepreneur of the Year
  2. Start-up of the Year

Past winners (2)

Honourees and guests in black tie with their trophy

Diaspora Impact Awards

Celebrating global excellence and recognizing individuals and organizations making a profound impact on their communities, industries, and the world at large, while showcasing the achievements of the diaspora community.

  1. Diaspora Champion (Individual)
  2. Corporate Diaspora Support Award
  3. State Government Diaspora Support Award

Past winners (1)

An award presentation at NIDA 2025

Professional Awards

Honoring professionals who have consistently demonstrated exceptional performance, dedication, and commitment to excellence.

  1. Young Professional of the Year – Under 40s (Male and Female Categories)
  2. Titan Professional of the Year – Above 40s (gender-neutral)
  3. Diaspora Award for Politics/Governance

Past winners (9)

Rasheedat Ajibade speaking at the lectern with her trophy

Sports & Creative Industries Awards

Celebrating excellence in sports and creativity. Recognizing outstanding achievements in sports, arts, culture, and creative industries.

  1. Sportsperson of the Year
  2. Curator of the Year (Art)
  3. Fashion Designer of the Year
  4. Journalist of the Year
  5. Upcoming Artiste of the Year (Music)

Past winners (9)

Other honours

Awards conferred at past ceremonies that sit outside the four published categories, such as Academic of the Year, the Social Impact Award and the Honorary Posthumous Award.

The awards process

A panel of judges assesses every nomination against four criteria: impact & distinction, leadership, innovation and character.

  1. Nomination

    Fill out a detailed online nomination form showcasing the nominee’s accomplishments and contributions.

  2. Review & Selection

    A panel of judges assesses nominations based on set criteria.

  3. Finalists & Announcement

    Finalists are notified, and winners announced at the Gala.

Nomination details