The management of ACE Media Magazine & ACE Awards has officially unveiled the recipients of the 2026 edition of the prestigious Awards Celebrating Excellence (ACE Awards), an initiative dedicated to recognising Nigerians who have made remarkable contributions to national development and global advancement across various sectors.
The announcement was made by the Chief Executive Officer of the organisation, Otunba Olumide Adeleke, who stated that the annual awards ceremony has, over the years, evolved into one of the country’s respected platforms for celebrating excellence, leadership, innovation and service to humanity.
According to him, the awards remain committed to identifying individuals and organisations whose dedication, hard work and achievements continue to positively shape society despite prevailing national and global challenges.
Otunba Adeleke explained that for more than twelve years, the ACE Awards platform has consistently recognised outstanding personalities including captains of industry, philanthropists, corporate organisations, political office holders, non-governmental organisations and entrepreneurs who have distinguished themselves in their various fields of endeavour.
He noted that the previous edition of the awards, held at the Watercress Event Centre in Ikeja, Lagos, attracted dignitaries and prominent personalities from different parts of the country, further strengthening the credibility and prestige associated with the platform.
Speaking on the selection process, Adeleke stressed that the organisation has maintained a reputation for integrity, transparency and merit-based recognition.
“As part of our vision on this herculean mission, we have, over the last twelve years, redefined the narrative of award-giving institutions by setting a high standard for integrity and excellence. Our panel of judges strictly determines winners based on merit, free from sentiment or bias. The ACE Awards have never been monetised, and this has earned us a solid reputation among reputable institutions,” he said.
He further disclosed that the selection of the 2026 award recipients followed an extensive and credible evaluation process carried out by a distinguished panel of judges who closely monitored the achievements, track records and societal impacts of the nominees over time.
According to him, honouring the awardees is aimed not only at celebrating excellence but also at encouraging them to sustain their contributions to national growth while inspiring younger generations and other Nigerians to pursue greatness and selfless service.
Among the distinguished personalities named as recipients of the 2026 ACE Awards are Senator Ademola Adeleke, Executive Governor of Osun State; Otunba Olumide Osunsina; the Head of Special Projects, First Bank Plc; Dr. Kunle Soname; Dr. Abdulwasiu Sowami; and Senator Idiat Adebule.
Others include Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo; Hon. Justice Moronke Olasumbo Obadina; Princess Omobolanle Ogundiran; Dr. Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire; Otunba Bimbo Ashiru; and Chief Isaac Moses alongside Chief Mrs Isaac Moses.
Also listed are Tokunbo Wahab; Professor Iyabo Obasanjo-Bello; Saleem Adegunwa; Dr. Mrs. Anuoluwapo Bankole; Mr Olumide Odunuga; Chief Dr. Matthew Tonlagha; and Chief Taofeek Ayinde Shodiya.
The list further includes Mr Gbenga Osunsina; Prophetess Mary Yetunde Olubori; Ach Tokunbo Ayodele Fowode; Alhaji Bashiru Kuti; Dr. Bukola Adubi; and the late Dr Samuel Ibiyemi, who is being honoured posthumously for his contributions to journalism and media development in Nigeria.
The ACE Awards CEO urged the recipients to remain exemplary figures and continue contributing meaningfully to societal advancement through leadership, mentorship and humanitarian service.
He reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to celebrating both prominent and unsung heroes whose impacts continue to inspire hope and development within society.
Otunba Adeleke also announced that the 2026 edition of the ACE Awards is scheduled to hold on May 22, 2026, at the Watercress Event Centre, Ikeja, Lagos, where dignitaries, corporate leaders, public office holders and guests from across the country are expected to attend.
