The just-concluded 17th Global ELOY Awards has been hailed as one of the most impactful and successful editions yet, celebrating exceptional women (and male allies) who continue to drive transformation across industries in Nigeria and beyond.
Held under the theme ‘The Year of the Confidently Audacious Woman,’ the awards honoured leading women in entrepreneurship, media, creative arts, wellness, agriculture, finance, technology, and nation-building. This year’s event marked an elevated celebration of excellence, visibility, empowerment, and community.
A major highlight of the night was the recognition of Benjamin Kalu, who received the ELOY HE4SHE Award for his unwavering support for gender equality and the advancement of women-focused initiatives.
Other spotlight honourees included:
Victory Wilson, celebrated as the ELOY Event Host of the Year, recognised for her captivating stage presence and professionalism.
Kate Isa, recipient of the ELOY Recognition Award for Science and Innovation, honoured for her leadership in laboratory innovation and science education.
Adaora Akojuru (Beta Agric) and Affiong Williams (Reel Fruits), who both took home the ELOY Award for Agriculture/Agropreneur, highlighting women transforming the agricultural value chain.
The night also recognised outstanding achievers across multiple categories from print journalism and tech innovation to humanitarian leadership, creative arts, wellness advocacy, and fashion.
Some of ELOY Awards Winners include;
ELOY Awards for Real Estate & Construction
Candace Ebhomielen-Uaboi – MD/CEO, BlueDutch Limited
ELOY Award for Tech
Nkemdilim Begho – CEO, Future Software Resources Ltd
ELOY Award for Print Media Journalist
Ifeoma Okeke-Korieocha – BusinessDay
ELOY Award for Creative Arts (Acting)
Sonia Uche
ELOY Award for Hair Business Sponsored by Lush Hair (lush hair logo)
Koyinsola Vera-Cruz – Tresses Lagos
ELOY Award for Public Relations
Omawumi Ogbe – GLG Communications
ELOY Award for Arts
Ibukun Ajagbe (aka “IBQuake”)
ELOY Award for Culinary Arts
Ngozi Adighotu (Hungrillville Kitchen)
ELOY for Wellness
Chioma Fakorede (Olamma Care Foundation)
ELOY Award for On Air Personality
Esther Nwankwo (Baby Lawyer) – Yanga 89.9FM, amongst others.
Tewa Onasanya, founder of the ELOY Awards and CEO of Exquisite Magazine, expressed heartfelt gratitude to partners, sponsors, and the entire ELOY community:
“This year’s awards reaffirm our mission to spotlight women who are breaking barriers, building legacies, and leading with courage. The 2025 nominees and winners remind us that women across Africa are unstoppable when given visibility and support.”
The 17th Global ELOY Awards continues to stand as the continent’s leading recognition platform for women’s achievements, celebrating excellence while strengthening networks for inclusion, growth, and economic empowerment.
