Nigerians among recipients of Nelson Mandela Leadership Award of Excellence and Integrity

The West African Youth Council has commenced nomination for the Nelson Mandela Leadership Award of Excellence and Integrity, an esteemed recognition awarded to outstanding young leaders across West Africa. This year, the award places a special focus on emerging youth voices making significant contributions in their respective fields, with several Nigerians among the distinguished honorees.

Named in honour of the late global statesman, activist and former President of South Africa, Nelson Mandela, the award recognizes individuals who demonstrate excellence, integrity, and a strong commitment to youth development, innovation, and social progress. It is not a general leadership prize, but a targeted recognition of field-specific impact and technical leadership in shaping Africa’s future.

The selection process is highly competitive, with fewer than 20 candidates chosen each year across the entire West African region. Nominees are evaluated based on their professional achievements, societal contributions, and potential to influence transformative change across the continent.

Nigerians have dominated this award in the past few years. Past recipients of the award also include HRM Tinuade Babalola, the first female traditional ruler of Iboropa Akoko, Ondo State; Dr. Bamidele Ajanaku, Managing Director and CEO of Cotter and Knuckle Engineering Services; and Santhotad Concept Plus’ MD/CEO, Mr. Temitope Adeusi. Their inclusion underscores Nigeria’s growing influence in fields such as technology, construction, and youth empowerment. Others include Dr. Oluwadamilola Adediran, a financial technology expert and senior manager at Global Zone Networks; Barr. Ibrahim Aisata, a leading legal advocate from Mali; Engr. Christian Adofo, a Ghanaian environmental science researcher; Arch. Francis Chidozie, an accomplished architect from Benin Republic.

Through this award, the West African Youth Council reaffirms its commitment to celebrating and elevating African professionals whose work inspires innovation, drives development, and creates opportunities for the next generation.