On December 7, 2024, Lagos came alive as SME100Africa hosted the 9th edition of the Nigeria 25under25 Awards, themed “Unveiling the Bold Thrivers.” This year’s ceremony celebrated young entrepreneurs who drive innovation, create impact, and embody resilience across various industries.
The event was made possible by the generous support of Microvis Microfinance Bank as the headline sponsor and DMX Logistics as a sponsor, with valuable partnerships from Catlog, GrapeVine360, and Forbes Africa.
A Celebration of Excellence
The evening began with an engaging portrait session involving 140 nominees, capturing the essence of their bold and thriving entrepreneurial journeys. The Street Style Interview managed the red carpet, setting the stage for nominees to share their stories while preparing for the award ceremony.
The main event opened with an orchestral interlude and a stirring rendition of the Nigerian National Anthem. The event hosts, Victory Wilson, and Chukwuma Ezeh, introduced the distinguished guests, followed by an inspiring welcome address by Mr. Rotimi Peters, COO of SME100Africa. Peters emphasized the organization’s commitment to empowering young talents:
“Tonight, we celebrate not just the achievements of these exceptional entrepreneurs but also the resilience, creativity, and leadership they embody.”
Inspiring Moments
The keynote speech, delivered by Dr. Akinade Kayode, MD/CEO of MicroVis Microfinance Bank, underscored the importance of resilience and collaboration in entrepreneurship. “Empowering young entrepreneurs is not just an investment in their future but in the sustainable growth of our nation,” he remarked.
Attendees were treated to stellar performances by spoken word artist Taw Luyi, singer Yemmymusic, and The Sax Apostle, setting an inspirational tone for the evening.
Honoring Bold Thrivers
The highlight of the evening was the recognition of 25 outstanding young entrepreneurs in categories ranging from Technology and Agriculture to E-commerce and Creative Writing. Esteemed leaders such as Dr. Kayode Akinade, MD/CEO of Microvis MFBank, Joshua Chibueze, Co-Founder of Piggyvest, Mr. Patrick Omitoki, Regional Director of Forbes Africa, Remi Ademiju, Growth Director of Dotts Media, Gbolahan, CEO of Catlog, Mr. Obinna Ozurumba, Co-Founder, Jxtgotfunded – Seyi Amao, Senior Partner and Member of Executive Committee, GrapeVine360 presented the awards, celebrating the winners’ exceptional contributions.
Meet the 25under25 Award Winners 2024
- Amarachukwu Nwokokoro – IRUKA Foundation (Active Citizenship & Government Engagement)
- Oyeyemi Israel Morenikeji – Calvary Farm and Feeds (Agriculture)
- Ajayi Iteoluwakishi Oluwaremilekun – Throne Culture (Arts, Craft, and Culture)
- Aishat Salau Olubusola – Hair Splash by Nana’s Khizana (Beauty and Makeup)
- Boluwatife Victoria Abiodun – Relationship Talks With Vikkie (Creative Writing and Content Creation)
- Dunmomi Durojaye – The Elior Brand (E-Commerce)
- Amuzie Grace – Isrina Schools (Education)
- Olayiwola Fasuyi – Layi Energy Limited (Energy and Sustainability)
- Okafor Chidinma Goodness – Diskeh Realty and Interiors Limited (Environment and Interior Decor)
- Chiamaka Esther Ngaihe – Kristal Ushering and Services (Event Planning)
- Abioye Taiwo & Abioye Kehinde – Rachel and Victoria Atelier (Fashion)
- Hussaini Muhammad – Elclassique Technologies Ltd (Finance and Financial Technology)
- Ibrahim Nuhu Kankia – Kosai Republic (Food and Drinks)
- Kamal Adebayo – HCA Consults (Health and Skincare)
- Arinze Chinazom – Autogirl (Hospitality and Tourism)
- Hon. Osayande Osahenrumwen David – The King On Wheels Logistics (Manufacturing and Logistics)
- Anita Onyeacholem – Cholem Clicks (Media and Communications)
- Vanessa ‘Zoe’ Hope-Daniels – Mavin Global (Records) (Music)
- Bertley Gift – Zadoratalks (Performing Arts)
- Oni Daniel – Quaver Photography (Photography)
- Khadijat Omokhuwa Braimah – Brandify Hub (Professional Services)
- Funmilayo Oyekanmi – Human and Social Sustainability Network Africa (Social Entrepreneurship)
- David Onilude – Beere Software Limited (Software and Design)
- Akaiso Mercy Temitope – (Sports)
- Precious Egilewe – Presloaded Dynamic Services (Technology)
To see the full details of our winners, click here
A Legacy of Impact
Speeches from past winners, including Joshua Chibueze, Tega Clifford and Ayodeji Faleto, resonated deeply with the audience. They shared how their recognition had accelerated their entrepreneurial journeys, motivating this year’s winners to aim even higher.
The event concluded with the much-anticipated 25under25 After Party, hosted in collaboration with Powerhorse Energy Drink, providing a platform for networking and celebration.
Looking Ahead
Dr. Akinade Kayode expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration:
“Collaborating with SME100Africa allows us to contribute meaningfully to the entrepreneurial ecosystem and support innovative young leaders.”
As SME100Africa gears up for the 10th anniversary of the 25under25 Awards in 2025, the organization remains committed to mentoring this year’s winners through entrepreneurship development programs. Applications for the next edition will open on May 1st, 2025, promising another opportunity to discover and celebrate bold thrivers.
