By Our Correspondent
Former President Goodluck Jonathan and Vice President Kashim Shettima will lead Changemakers Award Summit Honouring Nigerians who are making a positive impact in their communities, professions, business and offices today.
This year’s event, themed “Honouring Patriots, Inspiring Progress,” will bring together influential leaders, innovators, and changemakers to celebrate excellence and integrity in nation-building.
Dr. Jonathan will deliver the keynote address as Special Guest of Honour, while Vice President Shettima will chair the event. The Minister of Youth Development, Hon. Ayodele Olawande Wisdom, will serve as Chief Host.
Speaking during a media briefing in Abuja, the convener and Leader of the National Youth Leaders Forum, Comrade (Dr.) Duke Alamboye said the initiative was born from the conviction that even in trying times, many Nigerians continue to create positive change through honest work and visionary leadership.
“In the past two years, we’ve faced serious economic, political, and social challenges as a nation,” Alamboye said. “Yet, amid all this, there are men and women — in government, business, and civic life — who are quietly building, innovating, and keeping Nigeria’s dream alive. They deserve to be celebrated.”
He explained that the selection process for the awards considered measurable impact indicators such as innovation, modernization, transparency, and pro-people governance.
“When assessing governors, for instance, we didn’t just look at publicity,” he noted. “We evaluated income versus expenditure, infrastructure impact, and whether policies truly improve lives. Some leaders are doing exceptionally well, and we must shine a light on them”.
The event taking place on November 6, 2025, at the Armed Forces Officers’ Mess in Abuja will serve as a platform to shine a light on Nigerians who are defying the odds and driving progress in various sectors, including governance, innovation, entrepreneurship, and public service.
According to Comrade Duke Alamboye, convener of the National Youth Leaders Forum, the awards aim to challenge the narrative of despair and highlight stories of hope and resilience. “In a country often defined by its challenges, we want to spotlight those who are quietly building, innovating, and keeping Nigeria’s dream alive,” Alamboye said.
The selection process for the awards focused on measurable impact indicators, including innovation, transparency, and pro-people governance. Local innovators, such as automobile manufacturers Innoson, JAC, and GAC Motors, will be recognized for producing vehicles tailored to Nigeria’s terrain, promoting industrialization and self-sufficiency.
The Changemakers Award Summit promises to be a powerful celebration of Nigerian excellence, inspiring a new generation of leaders to prioritize integrity, innovation, and impact. As Alamboye noted, “The awards are more than an event – they’re a movement, challenging the culture of mediocrity and promoting a spirit of national pride.”
