The Unubiko Foundation has been named the recipient of the African Hero Award 2026 at the upcoming The Voice African Achievers Awards, in recognition of its contributions to philanthropy, education, and community development in Nigeria.

The award will be presented to the foundation’s founder, James Chijioke Ume, on August 21, 2026, in London. Organisers said the selection followed a jury review of the foundation’s investments in social welfare and grassroots development, aligning with the 2026 theme focused on mental empowerment for economic inclusion and growth.

The foundation runs the Rachael Ifeoku Ike Scholarship Scheme, which supports 18 students yearly with N400,000 each. It has awarded over N170 million in scholarships to about 170 students, covering tuition, accommodation, and living expenses in tertiary institutions across Nigeria.

In community development, the organisation has undertaken projects including school rehabilitation, water access, women’s empowerment, and youth development. It invested N250 million in the renovation of Ovukwu-Abam Secondary School and has drilled 49 boreholes in Abam and neighbouring communities.

The foundation also focuses on support for widows and vulnerable groups, including the construction and donation of 30 fully furnished two-bedroom bungalows. It has established a Women’s Development Centre aimed at equipping women with vocational and entrepreneurial skills.

Organisers also cited the foundation’s support for cultural initiatives such as the Ekponibro Festival and a N500 million donation to Dr Ogbonnaya Onu Polytechnic in Aba.

The awards are organised by The Voice News Magazine, a Netherlands-based publication that recognises Africans and supporters of Africa for contributions to development across the continent and in the diaspora.