The 100 Persons of the Year Award, an annual recognition initiative of 40under40 Nigeria, is set to return for its 2026 edition on Sunday, December 6, 2026, at the prestigious Oriental Hotel, Lagos, under the theme, “Creating Lasting Impact and Development in Nigeria.”

The event will bring together distinguished professionals, entrepreneurs, business leaders, innovators, public figures, and other stakeholders to celebrate individuals whose achievements, leadership, and contributions are making meaningful differences across Nigeria and beyond.

More than an awards ceremony, the 100 Persons of the Year Award seeks to spotlight individuals whose work demonstrates excellence, innovation, service, and a commitment to societal advancement. The initiative recognises contributions across sectors including business, entrepreneurship, education, technology, leadership, governance, and social development, while encouraging greater responsibility among individuals and institutions working towards national progress.

Speaking on the vision behind the initiative, the Convener, Dr. Amb. Omotayo Salako, emphasises the importance of recognising individuals whose accomplishments extend beyond personal success to create lasting value for their communities and the nation. The award’s underlying philosophy is that recognition should inspire further action, encourage innovation, strengthen collaboration, and motivate emerging leaders to contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s development.

The choice of this year’s theme reflects the importance of sustainable progress driven by purposeful leadership, enterprise, knowledge, innovation, and inclusive opportunities. It also underscores the role of individuals and institutions in addressing societal challenges, creating opportunities, and building a more productive, resilient, and prosperous nation.

As an initiative under the broader vision of 40under40 Nigeria, the award aligns with the organisation’s mission to teach, inspire, mentor, and empower. Through its annual platform, the organisation seeks not only to celebrate outstanding achievements but also to promote a culture in which excellence is matched by responsibility, influence is directed towards positive change, and success contributes to the greater good.

The 2026 edition is expected to provide a platform for meaningful engagement, networking, and the celebration of exemplary contributions, bringing together accomplished Nigerians and stakeholders committed to leadership, enterprise, and national transformation.

With the event scheduled for December 6 at Lagos Oriental Hotel, anticipation builds for another edition dedicated to honouring achievement while reinforcing the importance of sustainable impact.

Ultimately, the 100 Persons of the Year Award advances a defining principle: true recognition goes beyond the honour received; it is reflected in the lives improved, the opportunities created, the institutions strengthened, and the lasting value contributed to society.

As Nigeria continues to pursue growth and development across multiple sectors, the 9th edition of the 100 Persons of the Year seeks to celebrate those helping to shape that journey recognising not merely what individuals have achieved, but what their achievements mean for the future of the nation.