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Ranks Africa Best of the Year 2025 — Call for Nominations

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Ranks Africa is proud to announce the launch of Best of the Year 2025 — a landmark initiative that celebrates excellence across People, Brands, and Industries shaping Africa’s future. [nomination link]

From outstanding leaders and changemakers to pioneering companies and innovative industries, Best of the Year recognizes those who set the pace, inspire others, and drive impact.

What to Expect

Magazine Feature – Each honoree will be spotlighted in Ranks Africa Magazine and across our digital platforms.
Media Recognition – Stories will be amplified on our media platforms to reach a wider audience.
Plaque Presentation – Honorees will receive a prestigious plaque as a symbol of excellence and recognition.

Nomination Details

📌 Nominations are now open for categories across People, Brands, and Industries.
📌 Closing Date: 20th October 2025
📌 Submit your nominations by filling the official form here: [nomination link]

Be part of this celebration of Africa’s finest.
Nominate today and let the world know who deserves to be named Best of the Year 2025!

People of the Year Categories

  • Person of the Year
  • Business Leader of the Year
  • CEO of the Year
  • Entrepreneur of the Year
  • Innovator of the Year
  • Philanthropist of the Year
  • Activist of the Year
  • Young Achiever of the Year
  • Woman of the Year
  • Man of the Year
  • Influencer of the Year
  • Content Creator of the Year
  • Athlete of the Year
  • Coach of the Year
  • Artist of the Year (Music)
  • Actor of the Year (Film)
  • Comedian of the Year
  • Writer/Author of the Year
  • Journalist of the Year
  • Media Personality of the Year
  • Fashion Icon of the Year
  • Model of the Year
  • Tech Personality of the Year
  • Educator of the Year
  • Humanitarian of the Year
  • Health Professional of the Year
  • Legal Personality of the Year

🏢 Brands of the Year Categories

  • Brand of the Year
  • Company of the Year
  • Startup of the Year
  • Bank of the Year
  • Insurance Company of the Year
  • Investment Firm of the Year
  • Fintech of the Year
  • Airline of the Year
  • Airport of the Year
  • Hotel of the Year
  • Resort of the Year
  • Travel Agency of the Year
  • Private Jet Company of the Year
  • Restaurant of the Year
  • Real Estate Company of the Year
  • Construction Company of the Year
  • Interior Design Brand of the Year
  • Property Developer of the Year
  • Manufacturing Company of the Year
  • Automobile Brand of the Year
  • Electric Vehicle Brand of the Year
  • Auto Parts Manufacturer of the Year
  • Technology Brand of the Year
  • Telecom Brand of the Year
  • Media Brand of the Year
  • Entertainment Brand of the Year
  • Record Label of the Year
  • Production Company of the Year
  • Fashion Brand of the Year
  • Beauty Brand of the Year
  • Luxury Brand of the Year
  • Clothing Brand of the Year
  • Watch Brand of the Year
  • Bag Brand of the Year
  • Shoe Brand of the Year
  • Jewelry Brand of the Yea
  • Sportswear Brand of the Year
  • Furniture Brand of the Year
  • Electronics Brand of the Year
  • Beverage Brand of the Year
  • Food Brand of the Year
  • Alcohol Brand of the Year
  • Skincare Brand of the Year
  • Haircare Brand of the Year
  • Fragrance Brand of the Year
  • Wellness Brand of the Year
  • Fitness Brand of the Year
  • Educational Institution of the Year
  • Online Learning Platform of the Year
  • NGO of the Year
  • Event of the Year
  • Musical Festival of the Year
  • Cultural Festival of the Year
  • Islamic Bank of the Year
  • Mobile Banking App of the Year
  • Digital Wallet of the Year
  • Fintech of the Year
  • Neobank of the Year
  • Logistics Company of the Year
  • Supply Chain Company of the Year
  • Energy Company of the Year
  • Oil & Gas Company of the Year
  • Renewable Energy Company of the year
  • Accounting Firm of the Year
  • Cybersecurity Brand of the Year
  • EdTech Company of the Year
  • HealthTech Company of the Year
  • AgriTech Company of the Year
  • App of the Year
  • Streaming Platform of the Year
  • AI Company of the Year
  • Blockchain Startup of the Year

Governance Categories

  • Governor of the Year
  • Minister of the Year
  • Senator of the Year
  • House of Representative Member of the Year
  • State House of Assembly Member of the Year
  • Local Government Chairman of the Year
  • First Lady of the Year

EXCLUSIVE: RANKS AFRICA MAGAZINE SPECIAL EDITION IN PARTNERSHIP KIDD WAYA

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Narrative does change; as life goes on, the beauty of who you are will be defined by your intentions toward yourself, your fans, and your craft. Kiddwaya is a major player in Entertainment industry, and he is using his influence and individuality to improve the relationships of the fans and Stan.

COVER: KIDD WAYA

How Kiddwaya moved away from other people’s realities to pursue his own reality without taking away his wholesome personality needs to be adequately studied. Kiddwaya channeled his intuition into a dream life and the goals he has always desired at a time when so many people believed in life on social media and were faking impressions just to keep up with the gram. He took the importance of social media and celebrities’ lifestyles to a different level, thereby steadily building his fortress and creating a diversified niche.

The reality of a favorite can also influence the stans, which explains the WDG’s extraordinary composure and positivity adoration. a base that took time not just to keep up with their favorite alone but also took a cue from his positive and global impact. Boldness and a proper understanding of life are their forte—class beyond class, you might say.

Due to Kidd Waya’s significant actions over the course of his three years of fame, this special edition of Ranks Africa Magazine is dedicated to him.

So now it’s over to you. What do you think of this issue, both in print and online? What do you like and what is missing? Let us know RanksAfrica@gmail.com or @RanksAfrica on Twitter and Instagram and we’ll see what we can deliver in our forthcoming issues.

 

READ FULL DIGITAL COPY HERE 

 

Ranks Africa Magazine: Without a doubt, Kunle Afolayan revolutionized how viewers rated Nigerian films.

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The influence of Kunle Afolayan is long-lasting and profound. Prior to the monumental success of ANIKULAPO, Kunle Afolayan has always worked with magic, both historically and currently. He served as an inspiration for many filmmakers even before cinema and online streaming were widely adopted in Nigeria; to his credit, movies like Irapada, The Figurine, Phone Swap, October 1, Roti, The CEO, Mokalik, etc. have all been named the finest movies by movie lovers.

Ranks Africa Magazine Special Edition: Kunle Afolayan

 

Without a doubt, Kunle Afolayan revolutionized how viewers rated Nigerian films. He is one of the most well-known directors to emerge in the last two decades. He also fits the description of a director who is aware of the idea of talent stardom.

 

Even though Kunle Afolayan has not yet received an Oscar, he will always be considered one of the best in the world. For this reason, a special edition of Ranks Africa Magazine has been created to recognize and commemorate him.

With nearly three decades of professional acting experience, Kunle Afolayan is not just a talented filmmaker but also a very skilled actor who is pleasant, charming, and easygoing.

Ranks Africa Magazine Special Edition: Kunle Afolayan

We also name 14 actors in this special issue of the magazine who you should watch out for in 2023. The list includes actors who are having breakout years, stars of highly anticipated films for the awards season, and even actors who are making their film debuts.

 

So now it’s over to you. What do you think of this issue, both in print and online? What do you like and what is missing? Let us know RanksAfrica@gmail.com or @RanksAfrica on Twitter and Instagram and we’ll see what we can deliver in our forthcoming issues.

 

DOWNLOAD THE DIGITAL COPY HERE

RANKS MAGAZINE-FASHION EDITION: NIYI LAWAL BRIDGING THE CULTURE

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In Nigeria, becoming a successful entrepreneur and influencer is not simple, especially for well-known individuals. There is pressure attached. Hard work, expertise, and frequently a small bit of luck is necessary.

One of the few people who had a successful business before becoming famous is Niyi. Since Niyi Lawal was presented to the world via the reality television show “Big Brother Naija” season 6’s “Shine Ya Eye,” many have come to the conclusion that you don’t need to be an entertainer before you join the show.

Due to the way he conducts himself on the show, Niyi continues to be one of the most respected #BBNAIJA naija alumni.

We at Ranks Africa have decided to celebrate those who have achieved professional success and used their enterprises to have a positive influence on their industry as well as society at large. This is the driving force behind this magazine.

This time around, Niyi Lawal, a successful serial entrepreneur and fashion influencer, is the subject of our focus story. You’ll find this quite interesting. 

ADENIYI LAWAL

THE PRINT COPY IS GOING TO BE AVAILABLE FROM 30TH OCT. 2022

You can order by sending Email Ranksafrica@gmail.com or DM @ranksafrica on instagram

 

You can DOWNLOAD DIGITAL HERE FOR FREE

RanksBusiness Magazine: Taking a giant step from certainty to uncertainty, Cross da Boss inspires entrepreneurs

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Ranks Magazine is a media outlet documenting creative minds today for tomorrow, which Identify and Promote Business, People and Industries from the perspective of every people & connecting people to latest business news

Two things happen when you live through an era of rapid change, as we are now. Firstly, there is an inevitable surge of artistic creativity and second the contrarians, the non-conformists and the anti-heroes come into their own. We witness the rise of the rebel: those who don’t play by the normal rules, who flourish in chaotic, unpredictable times and welcome uncertainty without fear. This is what this edition of Ranks Africa Magazine, celebrating Entrepreneur, Cross Okonkwo is all about. This edition celebrates the curious revolutionaries who think differently and this is reflected in the articles and contents carefully put together in this edition.

This edition, gives an insight into the life and brand of Ikechukwu Sunday Cross Okonkwo, popularly known as Cross, Entertainer, Lifestyle & Fitness Entrepreneur and the King of the Cross Nation.

The Hardcopy is 8,000 and 2,000 for digital copy

PAY TO Worldlink ICT Services 1014791447, zenith bank

Send Payment Slip +2348137586216  or +2348087571401 for Confirmation

LIMITED EDITION AVAILABLE

Taking a giant step from certainty to uncertainty, Cross da Boss inspires entrepreneurs, setting a new standard beyond entertainment on this exclusive edition of Ranks Magazine which explores his entrepreneurship journey, growth and lifestyle.

To all members of the CROSS NATION across the globe, this is a must have ‘master piece’ of your king and serial Entrepreneur available.

ICON EDITION: LAYCON FROM LOCKDOWN ICON TO UNSTOPPABLE SUPER STAR

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The history of the Nigerian Entertainment landscape in the last decade cannot be said to be complete without a reference to the year 2020 which significantly affected all spheres of the entertainment industry. From Music, Movie, Comedy, to Cinema and Shows, every aspect were significantly affected as a result of the global pandemic which led to months of lockdown across the world including Nigeria. In the midst of this pandemic, while many entertainers were struggling to survive, and some pushed off the scene due to the New Normal, a new star was born, changing the face and phase of entertainment in Nigeria. His name is Olamilekan Agbelese popularly known as LAYCON, the phenomenal champion of the Lockdown episode of the “Big Brother Naija” reality TV show, who is now the Unstoppable Superstar.

Ranks Magazine is a Single Character Tabloid that intends to holistically capture the life, career growth and creativities of certain individuals who have distinguished themselves in their chosen fields of endeavours. It has a tripartite motive of; serving as a compendium for the personality, x-raying the known and revealing the unknown.

This edition, gives an insight into the lockdown ICON of Big Brother Naija, x-raying his rise to stardom, critique of his album and perspectives of fans about him. A perspective analysis of this phenomenon GOD IN HUMAN BODY is presented in this edition and it is insightful. As you flip through the pages, you will no doubt see the depth of research and robust intellectual analysis in all the discourses.

Welcome to the world of Ranks.

Chief Editor: Charles Omotayo.

Creative Director: Wale Kazeem

Project Coordinator: Wale Kazeem | Lanre Adegbaju

Photographer: Lopeze Photography

Stylist: Leereeks The Stylist

 

Read below Excerpts

ICON EDITION: AGAIN, WHO IS LAYCON?

ICON EDITION: THE UNSTOPPABLE JOURNEY OF LAYCON

VIEWS AND PERSPECTIVES OF FANS AND FRIENDS ABOUT LAYCON

Laycon: The Long Walk to Shall We Begin Album

WHY SOME FANS CHOOSE TO GO ON EVERLASTING JOURNEY WITH LAYCON

 

You can Download full Magazine 

https://ranksmagazine.com/product/laycon-icon-edition/

Ranks Africa Partners Unstoppable Super Star LAYCON in ICONIC EDITION of Ranks Magazine

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Ranks Africa is up to something with The Lockdown ICON who is now Unstoppable Superstar ‘LAYCON’ with forefront Fanbase ICONS, who are currently redefining Fanbase ideologies and goals.

The partnership is to produce a Single- Character Magazine which intends to holistically capture the life, career growth and creativity of LAYCON who have distinguished himself as REALTY STAR AND RAPPER with uncommon melodies. Ranks Magazine has a tripartite motive of; serving as a compendium for the personality, x-raying the known and revealing the unknown of the personality and promoting the works and creativity of the personality.

The September Male Edition is nicknamed ICONS EDITION to illuminate the positive beacons in a sea of negativity, especially at a time like this when youths of this age are finding entertainment and self-reliance unworthy.

The September Editon will be out on the 10th September also open for partnership in form of adverts and promotions.

ICONS, let’s do this for the culture.  READ NOW

For Advert Placement: +23480875771401 or Email info@RanksAfrica.com

Photographer @Lopeze_photography

Stylist : @leereeksthestylist

Creative Director: @rhwaley
@ranksafrica
@ranksmagazine

 

Abeiku Santana: Leading a New Era for Ghana’s Tourism Industry

Abeiku Santana is recognized as one of Africa’s 100 Most Impactful People in Tourism & Hospitality 2026 (TOHO100) for his exceptional leadership, destination advocacy, and unwavering commitment to advancing Ghana’s tourism industry.

As the Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA), Abeiku Santana has brought fresh energy, visibility, and strategic direction to one of Africa’s most vibrant tourism sectors. Widely respected as one of Ghana’s most influential media personalities, he has successfully leveraged decades of experience in broadcasting, marketing, and public engagement to amplify Ghana’s tourism brand locally and internationally.

Since assuming office, Abeiku Santana has become a driving force behind initiatives that promote domestic tourism, strengthen stakeholder collaboration, and showcase Ghana’s rich culture, heritage, festivals, hospitality, and creative industries. His leadership has reinforced the connection between tourism, entertainment, and the creative economy, helping position Ghana as a leading destination for leisure, business, cultural, and diaspora tourism.

Beyond policy and administration, Abeiku has remained an authentic ambassador for Ghana, consistently using his platform to celebrate local destinations, encourage travel, support tourism businesses, and inspire a renewed sense of pride in Ghana’s tourism assets. His ability to connect government, industry stakeholders, creatives, and travelers has made him one of the continent’s most influential voices in destination promotion.

His passion, innovation, and people-centered approach continue to shape the future of tourism in Ghana while contributing to Africa’s growing reputation as a world-class tourism destination.

Why He Was Recognized

Abeiku Santana is recognized as one of Africa’s 100 Most Impactful People in Tourism & Hospitality 2026 for his visionary leadership, destination marketing, tourism advocacy, and outstanding contribution to strengthening Ghana’s tourism and hospitality industry while elevating Africa’s global tourism profile.

Recognized by TOHO Africa
Powered by Ranks Africa

 

Ranks Africa Announces the 5th Edition of Africa’s 100 Most Impactful People in Tourism & Hospitality (TOHO100)

Charlotte Abadjayé AGOSSOU: Creating Beauty, Inspiring Confidence

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Charlotte Abadjayé AGOSSOU, known to her growing audience as Charlotte__aby, represents a new generation of African creatives using authenticity, creativity, and consistency to build meaningful influence.

Based in Cotonou, Benin, she has established herself as an actress, model, UGC creator, and digital lifestyle personality whose content celebrates beauty, fashion, and self-expression with effortless elegance.

Charlotte doesn’t simply create content—she creates experiences that resonate. Whether she’s sharing beauty routines, showcasing stunning hairstyles, inspiring fashion lovers, or bringing stories to life on screen, she approaches every piece of content with originality, warmth, and professionalism.

A Creative with Many Dimensions

Charlotte’s versatility is one of her greatest strengths.

As an actress and model, she brings confidence, grace, and authenticity to every production and campaign she joins.

As a beauty and hair creator, she continues to inspire women by celebrating self-care, natural beauty, and confidence through practical, engaging, and visually captivating content.

Her fashion choices reflect a perfect balance of contemporary elegance and African identity, making her one of Benin’s emerging style voices.

As a UGC creator, she produces authentic, high-quality content that enables brands to connect naturally with audiences. Her creativity, professionalism, and relatable storytelling have made her an increasingly valuable collaborator for lifestyle, beauty, and fashion brands.

Representing a New Generation

Charlotte represents a generation of African creators who understand that influence is built through consistency, authenticity, and genuine connection.

Her content is aspirational without losing its relatability. She has a natural ability to make beauty, fashion, and lifestyle feel accessible while encouraging women to embrace their individuality with confidence.

With every collaboration, campaign, and creative project, she continues to strengthen her personal brand while showcasing the creativity emerging from Benin to audiences across Africa and beyond.

Ranks Circle Verdict

Charlotte Abadjayé AGOSSOU is more than a content creator—she is a storyteller, creative entrepreneur, and rising digital personality whose influence continues to grow through authenticity and purpose.

As she expands her impact across beauty, fashion, lifestyle, and entertainment, she represents the future of African digital creativity: confident, elegant, and proudly rooted in her culture.

Keep creating, Charlotte. Benin is proud of your journey, and Africa is watching your rise with admiration.

Mister Cross River Partners with Gemba Hotel and Resort Ahead of New Edition

Tourism and Hospitality | Cross River

Mister Cross River has entered an official partnership with Gemba Hotel and Resort, bringing together two institutions with growing influence in Cross River State’s cultural and hospitality landscape.

Mister Cross River Partners with Gemba Hotel and Resort Ahead of New Edition

The collaboration links a pageant known for shaping young leadership with a property that has positioned itself as a landmark destination in Calabar since opening earlier this year. For Gemba, known locally under the line “Think Calabar, Think Gemba,” the partnership extends its presence beyond hospitality into the state’s broader cultural calendar. For Mister Cross River, it adds a hospitality partner with the scale and visibility to support a platform built around leadership, community impact, and representation.

Since its opening, Gemba has built its identity around a quiet form of luxury, one measured less by spectacle and more by comfort, privacy, and attention to detail. From Fleuréa Fine Dining and the Gazebo Grill to the Gemba Luxury Spa and its Floating Basket Experience, the property has set out to redefine what lifestyle, tourism, and hospitality management look like in Calabar. Its commitment reflects a broader ambition to shift the region’s hospitality standard toward understated elegance rather than excess, an approach the partnership with Mister Cross River is expected to reinforce.

Mister Cross River Partners with Gemba Hotel and Resort Ahead of New Edition

Registration for the pageant’s next edition is currently open to young men across the state. Organizers describe the search as one for candidates who reflect confidence, purpose, and a readiness to lead, qualities the platform has built its reputation on since its founding.

The eventual titleholder will go on to represent Cross River State at Misters of Nigeria in the coming edition, joining a growing list of finalists the pageant has produced.

As Calabar continues to draw attention as one of Nigeria’s most visited cultural destinations, partnerships of this kind reflect a wider pattern: local institutions aligning to strengthen the state’s identity as a hub for tourism, hospitality, and homegrown talent.

 

Chef Abbys: Elevating African Culinary Tourism Through Creativity and Culture

Chef Abbys is recognized as one of Africa’s 100 Most Impactful People in Tourism & Hospitality 2026 (TOHO100) for her outstanding contribution to culinary tourism, hospitality, and the promotion of African cuisine through innovation, storytelling, and cultural preservation.

As one of Africa’s most influential culinary personalities, Chef Abbys has built a reputation for transforming local ingredients and traditional recipes into modern dining experiences that celebrate the richness and diversity of African gastronomy. Through her work, she continues to demonstrate that food is one of the continent’s most powerful tourism assets.

Beyond the kitchen, Chef Abbys has become a passionate advocate for culinary excellence, inspiring chefs, food entrepreneurs, and hospitality professionals while promoting indigenous cuisines to wider audiences. Her digital platforms and culinary experiences have introduced thousands of people to the depth of African food culture, encouraging travelers to explore destinations through their local flavors and traditions.

Her commitment to showcasing authentic African cuisine has contributed to the growing recognition of culinary tourism as an important driver of destination marketing and the visitor economy. By celebrating local ingredients, supporting food innovation, and highlighting Africa’s culinary heritage, she continues to strengthen the connection between food, culture, and tourism.

Chef Abbys’ influence extends beyond creating exceptional meals. She has helped position African cuisine as a global conversation, encouraging greater appreciation for the continent’s culinary identity while supporting the growth of restaurants, hospitality businesses, and food-focused tourism experiences.

Why She Was Recognized

Chef Abbys is recognized as one of Africa’s 100 Most Impactful People in Tourism & Hospitality 2026 for her exceptional contribution to culinary tourism, hospitality excellence, destination promotion, and her commitment to showcasing African cuisine as a vital part of the continent’s tourism and cultural identity.

Recognized by TOHO Recognition
Powered by Ranks Africa

Ranks Africa Announces the 5th Edition of Africa’s 100 Most Impactful People in Tourism & Hospitality (TOHO100)

Simpo Gladys: The Ugandan Creator Changing How Africa Sees African Tourism

Simpo Gladys is recognized as one of Africa’s 100 Most Impactful People in Tourism & Hospitality 2026 (TOHO100) for her remarkable contribution to destination storytelling, digital tourism promotion, and inspiring Africans to discover the beauty of their own continent.

As one of Africa’s leading travel content creators, Simpo Gladys has built a powerful platform that goes beyond creating visually appealing travel content. Through authentic storytelling, cultural immersion, and on-the-ground experiences, she has become a passionate advocate for intra-African tourism, encouraging Africans to explore the continent while changing long-held perceptions about its destinations.

Her travels across multiple African countries have showcased the continent’s breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, vibrant communities, hospitality, and untold tourism experiences. Rather than focusing only on iconic landmarks, Simpo highlights the people, traditions, cuisine, history, and everyday experiences that make each destination unique.

Her visit to Nigeria further demonstrated the power of digital creators in destination marketing. By exploring states, engaging with local communities, and documenting authentic experiences, she generated positive conversations around Nigeria’s tourism potential while inspiring thousands of people across Africa to view the country through a fresh perspective.

Simpo’s influence extends beyond social media. Her work supports destination branding, promotes local tourism businesses, encourages cultural exchange, and reinforces the growing role of digital creators in shaping travel decisions. At a time when content creators have become key drivers of tourism promotion, she continues to prove that authentic storytelling can inspire travel, strengthen regional connections, and position Africa as a world-class destination.

Why She Was Recognized

Simpo Gladys is recognized as one of Africa’s 100 Most Impactful People in Tourism & Hospitality 2026 for her outstanding contribution to destination storytelling, digital tourism promotion, cultural exchange, and her role in inspiring more Africans to discover and experience the continent.

Her work reflects the growing influence of content creators in shaping modern tourism, strengthening destination brands, and promoting Africa as a vibrant, diverse, and welcoming travel destination.

Recognized by TOHO Recognition
Powered by Ranks Africa

Ranks Africa Announces the 5th Edition of Africa’s 100 Most Impactful People in Tourism & Hospitality (TOHO100)

Collette Nwadike: Championing Tourism Promotion Through Leadership and Advocacy

Collette Nwadike is recognized as one of Africa’s 100 Most Impactful People in Tourism & Hospitality 2026 (TOHO100) for her outstanding contribution to tourism promotion, destination advocacy, and her continued efforts to elevate Nigeria’s tourism industry on the African stage.

As the Chief Executive Officer of Nigeria Tourism, Collette Nwadike has been at the forefront of initiatives that promote Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage, tourism destinations, and hospitality potential. Through strategic collaborations, industry engagements, and destination-focused campaigns, she has consistently advocated for tourism as a driver of economic growth, cultural exchange, and national development.

Her leadership has contributed to strengthening partnerships across the public and private sectors, creating platforms that connect tourism stakeholders, promote local destinations, and encourage greater investment in Nigeria’s tourism and hospitality ecosystem. She has also been a strong voice for positioning tourism as an essential pillar of sustainable development and job creation.

Beyond administration, Collette continues to champion initiatives that celebrate Nigeria’s diversity, support tourism entrepreneurs, and enhance the country’s visibility as a competitive destination for leisure, business, cultural, and experiential travel.

Why She Was Recognized

Collette Nwadike is recognized as one of Africa’s 100 Most Impactful People in Tourism & Hospitality 2026 for her leadership in tourism promotion, destination advocacy, stakeholder engagement, and her continued commitment to advancing Nigeria’s tourism and hospitality industry while contributing to the growth of Africa’s visitor economy.

Recognized by TOHO Recognition
Powered by Ranks Africa

Ranks Africa Announces the 5th Edition of Africa’s 100 Most Impactful People in Tourism & Hospitality (TOHO100)

Abiola Adelana: Advancing Tourism Through Purpose-Driven Initiatives

Abiola Adelana is recognized as one of Africa’s 100 Most Impactful People in Tourism & Hospitality 2026 (TOHO100) for her outstanding contribution to transforming tourism through innovative financing, strategic partnerships, and sustainable industry development.

As Head of Tourism Business & Creative Arts at Sterling Bank, Abiola has pioneered one of Africa’s most impactful private-sector tourism initiatives by positioning finance as a catalyst for tourism growth. Under her leadership, Sterling Bank became the first financial institution in Nigeria to establish a dedicated tourism business desk, creating specialized financial solutions that support tourism businesses, hospitality investments, and destination development.

Widely regarded as one of the architects of Nigeria’s tourism finance framework, she has championed innovative funding models, investment strategies, and digital platforms designed to strengthen the tourism value chain. Her work has helped bridge the gap between finance and tourism by making capital more accessible to businesses while encouraging sustainable investment across the sector.

Beyond banking, Abiola has become a trusted advisor to government and industry stakeholders, contributing to tourism policy conversations, destination development, and strategic initiatives aimed at positioning tourism as a major driver of economic growth. She has consistently advocated for stronger collaboration between the public and private sectors, recognizing that investment, innovation, and strategic planning are essential to unlocking Africa’s tourism potential.

Her leadership has also extended to supporting tourism destinations, developing digital tourism platforms, promoting domestic tourism, and fostering partnerships that strengthen Nigeria’s hospitality ecosystem. Through these initiatives, she continues to demonstrate how financial institutions can play a transformative role in building a more competitive and sustainable tourism industry.

Why She Was Recognized

Abiola Adelana is recognized as one of Africa’s 100 Most Impactful People in Tourism & Hospitality 2026 for her visionary leadership in tourism finance, strategic investment, destination development, and her exceptional contribution to building a stronger, more resilient tourism and hospitality ecosystem across Nigeria and Africa.

Recognized by TOHO Recognition
Powered by Ranks Africa

Ranks Africa Announces the 5th Edition of Africa’s 100 Most Impactful People in Tourism & Hospitality (TOHO100)

Dr. Abisoye Fagade: Repositioning Hospitality and Tourism Development in Nigeria

Dr. Abisoye Fagade is recognized as one of Africa’s 100 Most Impactful People in Tourism & Hospitality 2026 (TOHO100) for his transformative leadership as the Director General and Chief Executive Officer of the National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism (NIHOTOUR) and his commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s tourism and hospitality ecosystem.

Since assuming office in February 2025, Dr. Fagade has championed a new vision for NIHOTOUR, focusing on institutional transformation, workforce development, stakeholder collaboration, and raising professional standards across the hospitality and tourism industry. He pledged to reposition the institute, strengthen staff welfare, and restore NIHOTOUR’s relevance as Nigeria’s foremost hospitality and tourism training institution.

Under his leadership, NIHOTOUR has intensified engagement with government agencies and industry stakeholders to build strategic partnerships that support tourism development. One notable initiative is the collaboration with the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC), aimed at improving institutional processes and strengthening standards across Nigeria’s tourism and hospitality sector.

Drawing on his background in marketing communications and brand strategy, Dr. Fagade has also brought renewed attention to destination promotion, industry visibility, and the role of professional training in enhancing visitor experiences. His leadership reflects a broader commitment to positioning tourism and hospitality as key contributors to economic growth, employment, and national development.

Why He Was Recognized

Dr. Abisoye Fagade is recognized as one of Africa’s 100 Most Impactful People in Tourism & Hospitality 2026 for his visionary leadership in repositioning NIHOTOUR, advancing hospitality education and professional standards, fostering strategic partnerships, and driving initiatives that strengthen the future of tourism and hospitality in Nigeria and across Africa.

Recognized by TOHO Recognition
Powered by Ranks Africa

Ranks Africa Announces the 5th Edition of Africa’s 100 Most Impactful People in Tourism & Hospitality (TOHO100)

Darey Art Alade: Transforming Tourism Through Africa’s Creative Economy

Darey Art Alade is recognized as one of Africa’s 100 Most Impactful People in Tourism & Hospitality 2026 for his outstanding contribution to event tourism, destination marketing, and Africa’s creative visitor economy.

As the Co-Founder and Chief Creative Director of Livespot360, Darey has helped build one of Africa’s leading experiential marketing and live entertainment companies, delivering world-class concerts, festivals, destination activations, tourism campaigns, and large-scale cultural experiences that attract visitors, stimulate local economies, and elevate Africa’s global tourism profile.

Through Livespot360, he has played a key role in producing internationally recognized events that bring together thousands of attendees, support hotels, airlines, restaurants, transportation providers, and other tourism businesses, while positioning African cities as premier destinations for entertainment, culture, and business events.

His work demonstrates how the creative economy and tourism can thrive together. By creating immersive experiences and destination-driven events, Darey has contributed to the growth of event tourism, strengthened destination branding, and showcased Africa’s rich cultural identity to regional and international audiences.

Beyond entertainment, his leadership continues to inspire innovation in experiential marketing, destination storytelling, and strategic partnerships that connect culture, hospitality, and tourism.

Why He Was Recognized

Darey Art Alade is recognized as one of Africa’s 100 Most Impactful People in Tourism & Hospitality 2026 for his visionary leadership as Co-Founder of Livespot360 and his significant contribution to event tourism, destination promotion, cultural experiences, and the continued growth of Africa’s tourism and hospitality ecosystem.

Recognized by TOHO Recognition
Powered by Ranks Africa

Ranks Africa Announces the 5th Edition of Africa’s 100 Most Impactful People in Tourism & Hospitality (TOHO100)

Ranks Africa Announces the 5th Edition of Africa’s 100 Most Impactful People in Tourism & Hospitality (TOHO100)

Ranks Africa is proud to announce the 5th edition of Africa’s 100 Most Impactful People in Tourism & Hospitality (TOHO100), celebrating the visionary leaders, innovators, entrepreneurs, executives, policymakers, creators, and changemakers driving the growth of Africa’s tourism and hospitality industry.

Previously presented under the Travel & Tourism category of Ranks Africa, the recognition now enters a new era under TOHO Africa—the dedicated tourism and hospitality platform launched by Ranks Africa following the 2025 edition to strengthen the industry through credible recognition, rankings, certifications, industry insights, and strategic engagement.

As part of this year’s recognition, every honoree will receive:

  • An official Africa’s 100 Most Impactful People in Tourism & Hospitality 2026 digital recognition cover.
  • A dedicated feature in the upcoming TOHO Africa Magazine.
  • Inclusion in the official TOHO100 Recognition List & Archive.
  • Editorial and social media spotlight across TOHO Africa, Ranks Africa, and partner platforms.
  • A personalized digital recognition plaque.
  • An optional personalized physical recognition plaque (available upon request).

TOHO100 is an editorial recognition based on research, industry assessment, and impact evaluation, celebrating individuals whose leadership and contributions continue to shape the future of tourism and hospitality across Africa.

TOHO Africa
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