MIPAD Brings Global Recognition Home with Lagos Diaspora Experience 2025

The Most Influential People of African Descent (MIPAD) is set to host the inaugural Lagos Diaspora Experience 2025, a week-long celebration of African culture, innovation, and achievement, culminating in its End-of-Year Awards on December 21st in Lagos.

Traditionally held in New York during the UN General Assembly, the prestigious Most Influential 100 Recognition & Awards Ceremony will this year honour achievers on home soil. The week’s program includes Diaspora Day at the Fela Exhibition, Cultural Heritage Day, and Business Leadership Luncheons, showcasing the richness of African heritage and innovation.

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and Lagos city will be recognised for leadership in culture, tourism, and diaspora engagement, while Minister Hannatu Musa Musawa will receive Minister of the Year for her contributions to the creative economy.

Other top honours include Olorì Atúwàtse III as Most Influential Woman, Adewale Tinubu as Most Influential Man, and MTN Nigeria CEO Karl Toriola for transformative corporate leadership. Martell Cognac, owned by Pernod Ricard Nigeria, will be celebrated as Brand of the Year.

Founder Kamil Olufowobi described the event as a historic homecoming for the global recognition platform, designed to unite, connect, and inspire achievers of African descent.

The awards will spotlight the Class of 2025 alongside past Nigerian honorees previously recognised in New York. Lagos’ #DettyDec Diaspora Day on December 19 will precede the exclusive awards ceremony.

MIPAD, a global civil society initiative aligned with the UN International Decade for People of African Descent, continues to foster global recognition, connection, and collaboration among high achievers of African descent worldwide.