In what promises to be one of the most colourful nights of recognition and celebration in Ondo State, the Nigerian Outstanding Leadership Awards has unveiled its 2025 list of exceptional honourees. The event, famed for spotlighting men and women who turn ideas into impact and challenges into opportunities, will hold on Sunday, December 21, 2025, at De Dome Cultural Event Centre, Alagbaka, Akure.
According to the organisers, “The Nigerian Outstanding Leadership Awards is about recognising trailblazers who inspire, lead, and transform communities. These honourees exemplify the power of visionary leadership and dedicated service to humanity.” In other words, these are not just leaders who talk the talk, they walk the walk, even when the road gets bumpy.
Among the awardees are Otunba Valentine Olaleye, who will receive the Ondo State Outstanding Personality of the Year in Human and Community Development, a well deserved honour for a man whose passion for people keeps setting the bar higher. Hon Gbenga Fasua will be named Ondo State Outstanding Local Government Chairman of the Year, while Prince Adewale Akintade takes home the title of Ondo State Outstanding Young Ambassador of the Year, proof that youthfulness and leadership can actually coexist. Lekan Olotu Folorunso is set to be honoured as Ondo State Outstanding Human Resources Developer of the Year, and Hon Festus Adefiraye will proudly walk away as the Ondo State Outstanding Legislator of the Year, no doubt with his community cheering him on.
The spotlight will also shine on Mrs Kemi Olawoye Enahoro, the Ondo State Female Role Model of the Year, whose name has become synonymous with excellence and empowerment. Prince Adeniyi will bag the Ondo State Outstanding Community Service Delivery Man of the Year, while Hon Ayo Wisdom, the ever dynamic Minister of Youth, will receive the Ondo State Outstanding Youth Ambassador of the Year. In the world of giving back, Otunba O Ayara stands tall as the Ondo State Outstanding Philanthropist of the Year. And of course, AA Apartments, Akure, where comfort meets culture, will be crowned the Hospitality Firm and Hotel of the Year.
This year’s ceremony will be held under the theme “The Role of Men and Women in the Regeneration and Promotion of Our Eroded Culture: A Yoruba Perspective.” It promises not only to celebrate excellence but also to remind everyone that culture is not just what we wear, it is who we are.
Expected dignitaries include His Excellency, Dr Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, Executive Governor of Ondo State, who will serve as Chief Host and Special Guest of Honour. The Deji of Akure will play host as the Royal Host, while the Olowo of Owo will grace the occasion as the Royal Father of the Day. And for those who enjoy wisdom served with wit, Prof Dayo Faduyile, Chairman, Governing Council, Federal College of Education, Kotangora, will deliver the keynote lecture.
The organisers have urged the public to keep their eyes on the event, describing it as a “night where excellence will wear a Yoruba cap and smile.” The 2025 Nigerian Outstanding Leadership Awards promises laughter, inspiration, and well deserved applause for those whose works continue to make Ondo State and indeed Nigeria shine brighter.
