The third edition of the Megastar Man of the Decade Awards 2026 is set to take place on October 16 in Abuja, with a gathering of distinguished Nigerians from politics, traditional institutions, business, academia, and public service. The ceremony, themed “The Road to 2027: Citizens, Stakeholders, and the Democracy We Choose,” will hold at Wells Carlton Hotel and Apartments.
Former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan will deliver the keynote address at the event. His participation is significant given his experience at the highest level of Nigeria’s democratic governance and his role in the peaceful transfer of power following the 2015 presidential election. Jonathan’s keynote is expected to set the tone for discussions on democratic values, responsible citizenship, and peaceful political engagement.
The Olu of Warri, His Majesty Ogiame Atuwatse III, and his wife, Her Majesty Olori Atuwatse III, will serve as 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.
A High-Power Panel Session featuring prominent Nigerians will interrogate the responsibilities of citizens, political leaders, traditional institutions, businesses, and other stakeholders in shaping the quality and direction of Nigeria’s democracy ahead of 2027. The panel includes former Senate President Dr. Bukola Saraki, former Ondo State Governor Dr. Olusegun Mimiko, and Senator Otunba Engr. Gbenga Daniel, among others.
The theme of the awards was carefully chosen to stimulate national reflection on the fact that democracy extends beyond elections and political office, requiring active citizenship, accountable leadership, credible institutions, and peaceful participation. Traditional rulers have a particularly important role to play in preserving social cohesion, as they often remain enduring symbols of continuity and stability.
Beyond the awards, the 2026 edition aims to provide a platform for recognising outstanding Nigerians whose contributions have made a significant impact in their various fields. The event will also create meaningful conversations around Nigeria’s democratic and socio-economic development. The ceremony will be broadcast live on Arise TV and Channels Television.
The Executive Producer of the Megastar Man of the Decade Awards, Adeniyi Ifetayo, and Chairman of the Awards Committee, Seunmanuel Faleye, said the 2026 edition would reinforce the platform’s commitment to celebrating excellence, leadership, and service while encouraging constructive conversations on issues of national importance.
Key points
- The Megastar Man of the Decade Awards 2026 will feature a keynote address by former President Goodluck Jonathan and a High-Power Panel Session with prominent Nigerians.
- The event aims to stimulate national reflection on democracy and citizenship ahead of Nigeria's 2027 electoral cycle.
- The ceremony will be broadcast live on Arise TV and Channels Television, providing audiences in Nigeria and beyond an opportunity to follow the event.
