Preparations have been concluded for the 2026 Niger Delta Advancement Honours (NDAH), scheduled to hold on Saturday, October 24, in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.

The event, according to the organisers, will recognise individuals, businesses and institutions for their contributions to economic development, professional excellence and community advancement in the Niger Delta.

Speaking at a briefing, the principal partner of NDAH, Robinson Koyoyo, described the proposed honourees as “silent heroes”, saying their work often contributes to society without receiving widespread public recognition.

He said the awards were intended to encourage enterprise development, job creation, innovation and responsible leadership across the region.

Among the individuals and organisations listed by the organisers for recognition are former President Goodluck Jonathan, Rivers State University, Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited (PINL), Ade Mabo, Dr J. I. Odega, Sunville Property, Dr Johnson Agagbo, Dr Dan Onyetulem, Prince Akpan Ikim, Mercy Divine Properties and 15 on Herbert.

The programme will also feature a knowledge-sharing session themed “Rethinking Development in the Niger Delta: A New Approach to Overcome Challenges and Achieve Lasting Success”.

The session will be delivered by Professor Alafuro Epelle of Ignatius Ajuru University of Education, Port Harcourt, and is expected to examine development priorities, institutional effectiveness, environmental responsibility, human capital development and collaboration among government, businesses and communities.

According to the organisers, the event will also feature cultural performances, comedy, music and networking opportunities for business leaders, policymakers, academics, entrepreneurs and other stakeholders.

Koyoyo said the initiative sought to recognise achievements while encouraging further contributions to the region’s social and economic development.

The event is scheduled to take place at Aztech Arcum, Stadium Road, Port Harcourt. The blue carpet is expected to begin at 5 p.m., followed by the main programme at 6 p.m.

The organisers said the gathering would bring together award recipients and other stakeholders to celebrate achievements and discuss the region’s development prospects.