By Martha Agas
Gov. Alex Otti of Abia, American singer Adina Howard, basketball star Russell Westbrook and fashion designer Karl Kani are among Africans and Americans to be honoured at the 2026 Afro Awards.
The award ceremony, scheduled to hold in Los Angeles, California, U.S., on Saturday, honours individuals and organisations that have distinguished themselves through their contributions to communities, states and countries.
In a statement issued by the founder of the awards, Chief Taiwo Oduala, on Tuesday in Abuja, Otti will receive the Transformative Leadership and Human Development Award.
He described Otti as a distinguished personality whose achievements in leadership and human development had earned him recognition beyond Nigeria, further highlighting the impact of effective public leadership on the international stage.
Oduala said responsible leadership should focus on humanitarian services, economic growth and societal development, adding that such responsibilities should be taken seriously for the good of the people.
He described the event as a unique Afro-centric excellence award whose 2026 edition would celebrate excellence, achievement, leadership, creativity and contributions to society.
He said it would also build on the Afro Awards’ tradition of bringing together influential personalities who had made their mark in different sectors.
“The event will also feature or recognise a diverse collection of personalities from entertainment, fashion, sports, business, and public service, reflecting the international reach of the Afro Awards
“This is bringing Africa and the World together, from political leaders to business executives, entertainers, athletes, filmmakers, fashion personalities and organisations.
“Therefore, the awards will continue to highlight the diverse contributions of people and institutions shaping Africa’s image and influence around the world and on global stage, “ he said.
He listed some Nigerian recipients of the Afro Awards over the years to include business magnate Aliko Dangote, former President Goodluck Jonathan and Air Peace Chief Executive Officer, Dr Allen Onyema.
Others, he said, included music star Davido, Osun Governor Ademola Adeleke and Kwara First Lady, Prof. Olufolake Abdulrazaq, among others.
He said their association with the Afro Awards reflected the broad range of individuals and institutions recognised for contributions to leadership, business, entertainment, culture, aviation and community development across different sectors.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Afro Awards was established to reward, inspire and encourage individuals and organisations making a positive impact in global society.
Since inception, the Afro Awards has hosted and honoured more than 5,000 individuals at the core front of humanitarianism and philanthropy in American and African communities. (NAN)
Edited by Sadiya Hamza
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