The third edition of the Face of Africa Leadership Award, organised by Triangle News International, was held over the weekend at the University of London, United Kingdom.

The ceremony marked another moment in celebrating African excellence, innovation, and transformational leadership on a global stage.

Hosted under the theme, “Digital Governance: Opportunities and Challenges,” the event spotlighted Africa in the digital age, while also honouring distinguished individuals whose work continues to shape the continent’s future.

In his opening address, the CEO of Triangle News International, Mr. Femi Salako, reaffirmed the organisation’s vision to tell Africa’s story with pride and purpose.

“Today, we celebrate leadership, excellence, and the enduring spirit of Africa,” he said, adding: “Our theme speaks directly to the times we live in, as Africa embraces the promise of the digital age… Let today ignite fresh ideas and lasting collaborations for a digitally driven, prosperous Africa.”

The evening brought together a constellation of African changemakers. Among the high-profile recipients were: Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State, Chief Wole Olanipekun (SAN), awarded Personality of the Year, Nigeria’s Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, who also served as the Special Guest of Honour, entrepreneur and youth advocate, Seyi Tinubu; Governor Mohammed Umar Bago of Niger State; his Ondo counterpart, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, and Minister of Youth, Ayodele Olawande Wisdom.

The rest are Senator Orji Uzor Kalu (Abia North); Senator Eteng Jonah Williams (Cross River Central); Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, Abike Dabiri, and Chief Corporate Communications Officer, NNPCL, Femi Soneye, among others.

These leaders were celebrated for their contributions to governance, enterprise, community development, youth empowerment, and international diplomacy.

The intellectual highlight of the event came from Prof. Ojo Emmanuel Ademola, a global cybersecurity pioneer, who delivered a powerful keynote address titled “The Digital Economy in Africa: Opportunities and Challenges.”

He offered a robust analysis of Africa’s digital transformation, urging public and private stakeholders to invest in technology education, data governance, and inclusive access.

Fola Braimoh, another respected speaker, also gave a rousing talk on the same theme, reinforcing the urgency for strategic leadership in leveraging digital tools to foster economic growth and social inclusion.

Tunji-Ojo commended the organisers for showcasing Africa’s best to the world.