On Friday, July 25, 2026, BudgIT and Civic Hive hosted the Active Citizens Awards 2026 at the Civic Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos, bringing together civic leaders, development partners, government representatives, media professionals, private sector stakeholders, and members of civil society to celebrate individuals and institutions advancing active citizenship across Nigeria.

The awards ceremony recognised changemakers whose unwavering commitment to strengthening communities, advancing civic participation, promoting accountability, and driving sustainable development has created measurable impact across Nigeria. Following a rigorous research, evaluation, and review process, winners were selected from an exceptional pool of nominees whose work continues to inspire positive social change.

The event also featured a keynote address by Majeed Dahiru, a respected Nigerian journalist, public affairs analyst, and Energy Security Advocate based in Abuja. Widely recognised for his incisive commentary in Premium Times and other leading national publications, Dahiru is known for his thoughtful analysis of governance, national identity, social justice, and historical memory. His address underscored the importance of active citizenship, accountable leadership, and sustained civic engagement in building a more inclusive and democratic society.

Recognising Outstanding Civic Leadership

The Active Citizens Awards featured 13 categories, 7 open to nomination for the public and another 6 by research from the panel of judges, each recognising excellence in a critical area of civic engagement and social development.

• Award for Civic Activism

This category spotlights individuals whose advocacy and activism continue to strengthen Nigeria’s democracy and encourage greater civic participation.

• Award for Climate Change Activism 

Recognising individuals championing environmental sustainability and climate action.

• Award for Community Service

Celebrating individuals improving lives through selfless service and community development.

Award for Civic Activism	Award for Climate Change Activism	Award for Community Service
-Olusegun Elemo (Winner) -Ufuomaoghene Nnamdi-Udeh -Habib Sheidu -Oluyemi Orija	-Anthony Adejuwon (Winner) -Olumide Idowu -Dr. Alexander Akhigbe -Amb. Yahuza Hambali Katuka	–Oluyemi Orija (Winner) -Aisha Hamman -Lukman Oladimeji Jaiyeola -Folakemi Adesina

• Award for Disability Advocacy and Empowerment

Recognising remarkable efforts to advance inclusion and opportunities for persons living with disabilities.

• Award for Health Activism

Recognising excellence in healthcare advocacy and improved health outcomes.

• Award for Solution Journalism 

Celebrating journalists using storytelling to promote accountability and inspire positive civic action.

Award for Disability Advocacy and Empowerment	Award for Health Activism	Award for Solution Journalism
–Amb. Jake Epelle (Winner) -Ms. Tobiloba Ajayi -CODISA Foundation -Olajide Funso	–Dr. (Mrs.) Nonye Soludo (Winner) -e-CAPH -Sidney Sampson -Ramatu Ada Ochekliye	-Chinagorom Ugwu (Winner) -Omolola Afolabi -Abiodun Jamiu -Sodeeq Atanda

• Award for Oby Ezekwesili 

Named in honour of one of Nigeria’s foremost advocates for transparency and good governance, this category celebrates women whose achievements continue to advance gender equality and national development.

Winner: Keturah Shammah

Nominees

• Keturah Shammah (Winner)
• Amrah Aliyu
• Fauziya Abubakar Kure
• Oladiwura Oladepo

Special Research Recognition Awards

Beyond the competitive categories, BudgIT and Civic Hive also honoured outstanding individuals and institutions selected through extensive research for their exceptional contributions to civic engagement and national development.

The recipients were:

• Omoregie Osakpolor – Art for Activism Award
• Yinka Olaito – Award for Inclusion & Diversity
• Sterling Bank – Corporate Award for Civic Investments
• Dipo Fasina – Hall of Fame Award for Civic Activism
• Fisayo Soyombo – Active Citizen of the Year
• Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC) – Award for Institutional Transparency (Government Agencies)

These honours recognise sustained impact, innovation, and leadership beyond the nomination process, highlighting individuals and institutions whose work continues to shape a more transparent, inclusive, and accountable society.

An Evening of Celebration and Inspiration

The Active Citizens Awards 2026 was more than an awards ceremony, it was a celebration of purpose, resilience, and the collective efforts of Nigerians committed to making a difference. Guests enjoyed an elegant dinner in a warm and engaging atmosphere that encouraged networking, collaboration, and meaningful conversations among civic leaders and stakeholders from across various sectors.

The evening was brought to life through captivating musical performances by Sohlah Babs, whose live band delivered an exceptional performance throughout the event. Rising stars Cheemar and Solana also thrilled guests with energetic performances that added colour and excitement to the celebration. From inspiring acceptance speeches to heartfelt applause for every nominee and winner, the atmosphere reflected a shared belief that active citizenship remains one of the strongest forces for national development.

The success of the Active Citizens Awards demonstrates the importance of recognising those who dedicate their time, talent, and resources to strengthening democracy and improving lives. By celebrating civic leaders, advocates, journalists, organisations, and institutions making measurable impact, BudgIT and Civic Hive continue to inspire a new generation of Nigerians to participate actively in building a more transparent, inclusive, and prosperous society.

As the curtains closed on the 2026 edition, one message remained clear: meaningful change begins with active citizens, and their contributions deserve to be seen, celebrated, and supported.

Congratulations once again to every nominee, award recipient, partner, sponsor, and volunteer who made the Active Citizens Awards 2026 a remarkable success.

Together, we celebrate the people shaping a better Nigeria.