Highlights of the 2025 Vanguard Personality of the Year Award

Elder statesman and former Anambra governor, Jim Nwobodo, made a grand entrance, marking the beginning of a spectacular evening, as the ceremonies for Nigeria's most prestigious awards, the Vanguard Personality of the Year, got underway in 2026.

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The vibrant awards season culminated in this event, with the "best read newspaper" saving the best for last, as it celebrated outstanding Nigerians across various sectors, including the Lifetime Achievement awardee, Lagos Deputy governor, Kofoworola Bucknor Akerele.

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The atmosphere at the prestigious Eko Hotel and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos venue was electric, with dignitaries arriving in their finest attire, setting the stage for an unforgettable night, as the exhilarating Gbenjo took to the bandstand, performing pop hit covers.

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Former presidential candidate, Peter Obi, arrived with his usual entourage, including Mama Pee, a popular social media influencer and activist, causing a stir among the guests, including Basorun J.K. Randle and others.

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Obi took photo opportunities with many of Vanguard's guests, creating a memorable experience for all, as he mingled with the awardees and dignitaries in attendance.

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Personality of the Year, 2025, Minister of Interior Olubunmi Ojo, surprised the audience by dedicating his award to His Excellency, Bola Tinubu, for providing the enabling environment for him to achieve his goals.

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The 360-degree photographers stationed near the hall entrance brought out the child in both the young and the old, as they danced to contemporary tunes, creating a lively and entertaining atmosphere.

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The performance of musical icon, Tuface Idibia, a Vanguard ambassador, was a thrilling moment, as he serenaded the audience with his well-known classics, such as African Queen, getting veteran journalist, Bisi Olatilo on his feet, showcasing his impressive dancing skills.

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Lifetime Achievement awardees, including Jim Nwobodo, former governor of the old Anambra state, were honored by the Guardian Chairman, Maiden Ibru and Senator Bode Olajumoke, for their consistent achievements and contributions.

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Nwobodo expressed his excitement at being honored, forty years after leaving office, highlighting the significance of the award and the recognition of his achievements.

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Mercedes Benz managing director, Ebere Anenih, presented the Auto Icon award to Oluwatobi Ajayi, showcasing her professionalism and expertise, as she also shared her insights on tackling the challenge of selling high-end products in the current economic climate.

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A beautiful moment was witnessed when a first-class monarch, the Owa Obokun of Ijesaland, Oba Clement Adesuyi Haastrup, a former Osun deputy governor, walked into the hall with his wife, allowing her to shine, as she clinched the Woman Entrepreneur of the Year 2025 award for her strides in the maritime industry.

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Enugu state governor, Peter Mbah, paid tribute to his predecessor, Jim Nwobodo, outlining his endearing strides despite his young age as the state's chief executive, highlighting his achievements and legacy.

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A retinue of ladies, led by the sultry actress and model, Cossy Orjikor, graced the occasion with their unique beauty, as they presented awards, along with other Emeritus Guests, including Abiola Dosunmu, the Erelu of Lagos, and former Ogun governor, Olusegun Osoba.

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Speeches by Vanguard editor, Eze Anaba and the occasion's chairman, Odein Ajumogobia, inspired and endeared the audience, as they praised the awardees for their attainment of perfection in less than perfect circumstances.

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Ajumogobia's words stressed the significance of the awards, while Anaba emphasized the proximity of greatness, afforded all by such excellent individuals as Vanguard Personality of the Year awardees, leaving a lasting impression on the audience.