The third edition of the Megastar Man of the Decade Awards 2026 is set to take place on October 16 in Abuja, featuring a gathering of distinguished Nigerians from various sectors. The ceremony, themed ‘The Road to 2027: Citizens, Stakeholders, and the Democracy We Choose,’ will be held at the Wells Carlton Hotel and Apartments. This event aims to bring together notable figures from politics, traditional institutions, business, academia, and public service.
Former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan will deliver the keynote address at the ceremony. His participation is significant given his experience in Nigeria’s democratic governance and his role in the peaceful transfer of power following the 2015 presidential election. Jonathan’s address is expected to set the tone for discussions on democratic values, responsible citizenship, and the role of stakeholders in strengthening Nigeria’s democratic institutions.
The Olu of Warri, His Majesty Ogiame Atuwatse III, and his wife, Olori Atuwatse III, will be honored as the Royal Father and Mother of the Day. Their presence underscores the important role of traditional institutions in promoting peace, stability, cultural continuity, and national cohesion. Traditional rulers are seen as enduring symbols of continuity and stability, and their involvement highlights the significance of their role in preserving social cohesion.
A high-power panel discussion will feature prominent Nigerians, including former Senate President Dr. Bukola Saraki, former Ondo State Governor Dr. Olusegun Mimiko, and Senator Gbenga Daniel. Other panelists include Senator Ned Nwoko, former Edo State Governor Senator Adams Aliyu Oshiomhole, and Edo State Deputy Governor Hon. Dennis Idahosa. The panel will discuss the responsibilities of citizens, political leaders, and stakeholders in shaping Nigeria’s democracy ahead of 2027.
The panel discussion will also include constitutional scholar Dr. Sam Amadi and business leaders such as Julius Rone, Group Managing Director of UTM FLNG, and Dr. Nwangwa Uzonna, founder of Irvin Global and Investment Group. The diverse lineup of panelists is expected to provide a comprehensive examination of the roles and responsibilities of various stakeholders in promoting democratic values and socio-economic development.
The 2026 edition of the Megastar Man of the Decade Awards aims to recognize outstanding Nigerians whose contributions have made significant impacts in their fields. The event is designed to create meaningful conversations around Nigeria’s democratic and socio-economic development. The theme of the event emphasizes that democracy extends beyond elections and political office, requiring active citizenship, accountable leadership, and credible institutions.
The organisers of the event believe that the third edition promises to be a major milestone in promoting national reflection on Nigeria’s democratic development. By bringing together distinguished Nigerians from various sectors, the event seeks to stimulate discussions on the responsibilities of citizens, political leaders, and stakeholders in shaping the country’s democracy. The involvement of traditional institutions, such as the Olu of Warri, highlights the importance of their role in preserving social cohesion and promoting national development.
Key points
- Former President Goodluck Jonathan to deliver keynote address at the 2026 Megastar Man of the Decade Awards.
- Olu of Warri and Olori Atuwatse III to be honored as Royal Father and Mother of the Day.
- The event aims to promote national reflection on Nigeria’s democratic development and socio-economic growth.
