Abuja is set to welcome the second edition of “The Grand Awards” Nigeria’s first national award platform dedicated exclusively to celebrating dancers, performers, and professionals within the country’s vibrant dance industry.
Henshaw victory, Convener of The Grand awards who announced this during a press briefing in Abuja, described the initiative as a long-overdue recognition of the immense contributions dancers have made to Nigeria’s creative and cultural landscape.
He emphasised that the awards are more than a ceremony; they are a movement to empower dancers, stimulate job creation, and bring visibility to talents often left in the shadows.
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“For a very long time, dancers have given so much to this industry without receiving the recognition they deserve. The Grand Awards is giving them a platform not only to be seen but to earn more jobs, generate income, and inspire the next generation,” Victory stated.
He added that many young, talented dancers across the country lack access to performance opportunities or training support, and the awards aim to change that narrative by shining a national spotlight on their work.
According to him, this year’s edition will feature over 30 award categories, covering a wide spectrum of dance styles and disciplines from traditional and contemporary to urban and digital performances.
“In response to the evolution of dance in the digital era, five new categories have been introduced: TikTok Dancer of the Year, Most Influential Dancer of the Year, New Wave Choreographer of the Year, Dance Studio of the Year and Outstanding Locking Dancer.
“The nominations open from July 20 to August 10 via the official website www.thegrandaward.com, with voting scheduled between August 24 and September 14.
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“The Award Night will take place at the Congress Hall of Transcorp Hilton, Abuja, promising an evening of glamour, artistry, and cultural pride,” he said
Victory also called on the government and development stakeholders to invest more in the creative sector. “We need more theatre spaces, rehearsal venues, and government-backed programs to help sustain the arts. Dancers are professionals. They deserve the infrastructure and respect given to other industries,” he stated
He further encouraged public participation, saying the process is open to everyone passionate about dance and creative expression.
