Several Nigerians were among those honoured at The Achievers Awards International (TAAI) Under 40 Entrepreneurs Awards Conference 2025, held in Zanzibar.

The event, which celebrated excellence across entrepreneurship, humanitarian service, creativity, and innovation, recognised individuals making significant contributions to their industries and communities. This year’s edition highlighted the theme, “Innovation, Integrity and Impact in a Changing Africa”, reflecting a growing continental movement to recognise excellence and inspire young leaders.

Among the Nigerian honorees were Dr. Aleesha Kurbanali Adatia, Dr. Anita May Igoni, Dr. Jennifer Obiekwugo, Ronke Thaddeus, Christiana Asiedua-Asiedu, Babajide Guerrero, and Maryann Okoroji.

Other awardees included the First Lady of The Gambia and founder, Fatoumatta Bah-Barrow Foundation, Mrs Fatoumatta Bah-Barrow; Amb. Dr. Bunmi Obakoya; Amb. Daniel Ogidi; HRH Dr. Maryam Elisha; Hon. Donald Peterson; Amb. Dr Bernardette Erommaose Nwokoro; Michelle Oduah; Prince Temiloluwa Bayode, Chioma Annita; Dr Phophi Ramabulana Azubuike; and Christian Ochiagha, among others.

Speaking at the ceremony, the organiser, Dr Joy Osusu, described the awards as a celebration of excellence, impact, creativity, and innovation.

“We’re proud to recognise and reward individuals who have made a significant impact in their industries. We believe their achievements will inspire others to strive for greatness,” she said.

According to the organisers, the awardees were selected after a thorough evaluation of their professional records, leadership impact, and community service.

“These individuals represent the true spirit of African innovation and resilience. Through their work, they have demonstrated that leadership is not defined by position, but by influence and purpose,” a spokesperson for the awards committee said.

Among the honourees, Dr Aleesha Kurbanali Adatia from Tanzania was celebrated for her contributions to healthcare innovation and women’s health empowerment. At the same time, Dr Anita May Igoni received recognition for her work in entertainment and youth mentorship. Dr Jennifer Obiekwugo, a well-known advocate for women in business, was commended for her leadership initiatives that have helped nurture emerging female entrepreneurs and numerous brands in branding and public relations.

Media personality Babajide Guerrero was honoured for his creative excellence and influence in promoting African entertainment and culture, while Ronke Thaddeus and Maryann Okoroji were recognised for their entrepreneurial drive and humanitarian projects. Christiana Asiedua-Asiedu, a Ghanaian-based nurse and humanitarian leader with Nigerian ties, also received honours for her cross-border impact in humanitarian growth and empowerment.

The conference also featured keynote speeches, panel discussions, and networking sessions focused on innovation, leadership, wellness, and entrepreneurship as tools for economic and social development across Africa.

In addition to the awards, the organisers launched The Achievers Chronicles International, a magazine dedicated to spotlighting entrepreneurship, innovation, and resilience.

According to Osusu, the publication aims to inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs by sharing real-life stories of determination and success.

“Through this magazine, we aim to inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs, to share stories of struggle and triumph, to connect dreamers with doers, and to create opportunities for growth, learning, and collaboration,” she added.

TAAI was established to celebrate excellence, leadership, and innovation among young professionals, entrepreneurs, and changemakers across Africa and the diaspora. The annual awards and conference platform aims to recognise individuals and organisations whose work has contributed to sustainable development, empowerment, and community impact.

Over the years, TAAI has evolved into a global recognition brand, hosting editions in countries such as Nigeria, Tanzania and many to follow suit while fostering cross-border collaboration, mentorship, and innovation among emerging leaders.