Nominations open for 2025 Humanitarian Awards and Summit

The 2025 Humanitarian Awards and Summit has officially opened its nomination process, inviting the public to recognise and celebrate outstanding individuals, organisations, and initiatives that have demonstrated exceptional dedication to humanitarian service. The prestigious event, scheduled to take place from August 19 to August 22, 2025, is set to highlight and honour those making a lasting impact in humanitarian work.

As one of Africa’s leading humanitarian recognition platforms, the annual Humanitarian Awards and Summit acknowledges efforts in poverty alleviation, healthcare, education, climate resilience, social justice, and other critical humanitarian causes. This year’s theme, “Building Bridges of Hope: Transforming Lives with Compassion and Innovation,” underscores the importance of collaboration and sustainable solutions in addressing global humanitarian challenges.

An Expanded Format to Drive Greater Impact

In a strategic move to deepen its impact, the 2025 edition will incorporate a workshop, a high-level summit, humanitarian outreach programmes, and the grand awards and dinner night.

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The Humanitarian Workshop, scheduled for August 20, will equip humanitarian actors with essential skills, funding opportunities, and practical strategies to enhance their work. It will serve as a networking hub, bringing together funders, policymakers, and frontline humanitarians to foster stronger partnerships.

On August 21, the Humanitarian Summit will convene global leaders, government officials, nonprofit organisations, corporate changemakers, and development experts to explore the evolving humanitarian landscape. Through panel discussions, keynote addresses, and strategic dialogues, the summit will highlight innovative solutions and actionable strategies for sustainable impact.

The Awards and Dinner Night, set for August 22, will celebrate and honour extraordinary individuals and organisations for their commitment to humanitarian service. The event will showcase inspiring stories, highlight transformative initiatives, and provide a platform for stakeholders to connect, collaborate, and celebrate excellence in humanitarian efforts.

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In addition to the main events, outreach programmes will be conducted in collaboration with humanitarian organisations to directly impact vulnerable communities, reinforcing the event’s mission of real-time humanitarian service.

Recognising and Empowering Humanitarians

Speaking about the expanded format, Emmanuel Anabueze, President of the Humanitarian Awards and Summit, emphasised the need to not only recognise humanitarians but also equip them with the knowledge, resources, and networks to amplify their impact.

“Over the years, we have seen remarkable individuals and organisations dedicate their lives to humanitarian causes. However, beyond recognition, we also have a responsibility to support and empower these changemakers,” he stated.

He highlighted the Humanitarian Workshop and Summit as crucial additions to the programme, designed to provide practical guidance on grant access, proposal writing, and new areas of impact. The summit, he added, will bring together policymakers, private sector leaders, and development experts to shape the future of humanitarian action.

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“More than ever, humanitarian work needs collaboration, sustainability, and innovation. We are not just honouring heroes; we are ensuring they have the tools, connections, and support needed to continue their work on a much larger scale.”

Vice President Amina Muhammad echoed this sentiment, stressing the importance of public participation in the nomination process.

“Humanitarianism is about impact, and impact thrives on recognition and encouragement. Too often, those dedicating their time, resources, and efforts to bettering the lives of others go unnoticed. This is why we are calling on the general public to actively participate in the nomination process,” she said.

She urged Nigerians and the international community to nominate individuals, NGOs, corporate entities, and policymakers whose work has made a significant difference.

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“Every person, organisation, or community group that has contributed positively to society deserves to be acknowledged. Whether it’s an individual feeding the hungry, an NGO advocating for education, a business championing sustainability, or a policymaker driving inclusive policies—their work matters.”

Call for Nominations

As nominations open, the public is encouraged to submit entries through the official Humanitarian Awards website. The 2025 edition will feature multiple categories to ensure that diverse humanitarian efforts receive the recognition they deserve.

Award categories include:

• Government and Policy Leadership Awards, honouring governors, first ladies, ministers, and policymakers driving transformational change.
• NGO, Foundation, and Community Organisation Awards, recognising nonprofits and grassroots initiatives making a difference.
• Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) and Private Sector Awards, celebrating businesses and industry leaders supporting humanitarian causes.
• Individual and Volunteer Recognition Awards, acknowledging exceptional individuals dedicated to humanitarian service.
• Special Recognition and Legacy Awards, honouring lifelong contributions and outstanding humanitarian impact.

This year’s edition promises to be a landmark event, bringing together thought leaders, activists, policymakers, corporate executives, and grassroots changemakers for a transformative gathering. Beyond celebrating humanitarian excellence, the event will provide practical tools and strategic networks to drive sustained impact across communities.

The 2025 Humanitarian Awards and Summit is more than just an event—it is a call to action, a movement for change, and a celebration of those who embody the spirit of humanitarianism. By nominating deserving individuals and organisations, the public plays a crucial role in amplifying humanitarian efforts and inspiring others to take action.

For more details on the nomination process and event updates, visit Humanitarian Awards Official Website.