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#CAFAwards2019: Stage set for Coronation of Africa’s Finest

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FIRS

The moment of truth approaches and over the next couple of hours, the finest players and officials of African football for 2019 will be revealed at the 28th edition of the CAF Football Awards, on Tuesday, 7 January 2020 at the Albatros Citadel Hotel Sahl Hasheesh, Hurghada, on the shores of Egypt’s Red Sea.

The event will celebrate African footballers and officials who have distinguished themselves during the year under review.

A state-of-the-art dome, specifically built for the event and situated in front of the Red Sea will welcome hundreds of guests representing the crème de la crème of world football to celebrate African football.

READ: Mane, Mahrez and Salah nominated for African Footballer of the Year

Top on the list of awards is the African Player of the Year and the African Women’s Player of the Year, the most prestigious individual honour in African football.

For the men’s category, Egyptian Mohamed Salah, winner of the past two editions, faces stiff competition from his Liverpool teammate Sadio Mane of Senegal and Algerian forward Riyad Mahrez.

For the women’s category, South Africa’s Thembi Kgatlana, last year’s winner, is up against three-time winner Asisat Oshoala of Nigeria and Cameroonian Ajara Nchout.

The ceremony will also feature new award categories in recognition of exceptional contributions to African football and inspiring individuals.

Masters of Ceremonies for the night are Egyptian broadcast journalist Mariam Amin & Cameroonian football legend Samuel Eto’o.

Eto’o who announced his retirement from professional football last September will show his presenting skills on familiar ground having been crowned CAF Player of the Year four times – 2003, 2004, 2005 and 2010.

One of the most decorated footballers of all time, the Cameroonian follows in the footsteps of Ivorian Didier Drogba and Nigerian midfield Sunday Oliseh as presenters of the CAF Awards.

Polyglot Mariam is fluent in her native Arabic, English and French and hosts a social programme on Egyptian radio station, Nogoum FM, dubbed ‘El-Etifak’ meaning ‘we agree’, one of the most listened to programmes in Egypt.

“I admire Mohamed Salah and would love to meet him one day,” said avid football fan Mariam, who MCed the Official Draw for the Total Africa Cup of Nations Egypt 2019 last April, held at the Great Pyramids of Giza.

A galaxy of football stars past, present and future as well as former CAF Award winners and football Legends, amongst others, have been invited to the biggest gathering of African football stakeholders.

Nominees

African Player of the Year

  • Mohamed Salah (Egypt & Liverpool)
  • Riyad Mahrez (Algeria & Manchester City)
  • Sadio Mane (Senegal & Liverpool)

African Women’s Player of the Year

  • Ajara Nchout (Cameroon & Valerenga)
  • Asisat Oshoala (Nigeria & Barcelona)
  • Thembi Kgatlana (South Africa & Beijing Phoenix FC)

African Interclubs Player of the Year

  • Anice Badri (Tunisia & Esperance)
  • Tarek Hamed (Egypt & Zamalek)
  • Youcef Belaïli (Algeria & Esperance / Ahli Jeddah)

African Youth Player of the Year

  • Achraf Hakimi (Morocco & Borussia Dortmund)
  • Samuel Chukwueze (Nigeria & Villarreal)
  • Victor Osimhen (Nigeria & Lille)

African Men’s Coach of the Year

  • Aliou Cisse (Senegal – Senegal)
  • Djamel Belmadi (Algeria – Algeria)
  • Moïne Chaâbani (Tunisia – Esperance)

African Women’s Coach of the Year

  • Alain Djeumfa (Cameroon)
  • Desiree Ellis (South Africa)
  • Thomas Dennerby (Nigeria)

African Men’s National Team of the Year

  • Algeria
  • Madagascar
  • Senegal

African Women’s National Team of the Year

  • Cameroon
  • Nigeria
  • South Africa

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Events

‎Made In Abuja Creative and Entertainment Industry Conference and Award MACEICA 2025 Rescheduled to October 24–25

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‎The Made In Abuja Creative and Entertainment Industry Conference and Award MACEICA 2025, 2nd Edition, originally scheduled for October 10–11, 2025, has been rescheduled to October 24–25, 2025, at the Ballroom CBD, Abuja, Nigeria.

MIA

This change ensures optimal planning and participation, allowing us to deliver a world-class event that amplifies Abuja’s $14.82 billion creative economy potential. 

‎Endorsed by the National Council for Arts and Culture (NCAC), MACEICA 2025, themed “Decoding Abuja’s Creative and Entertainment Ecosystem; Trends, Opportunities, and Challenges,” will unite 2000–4000 creatives, industry leaders, and policymakers.

MIA

Featuring the Industry Conference, Fashion Runway, Creative Women Fireside, Made In Abuja Awards, and Business Pitching Competition (₦500,000 top prize), the event fosters dialogue, recognition, and investment. With free registration at miaaward.ng, MACEICA ensures inclusivity for youth (70% of attendees, aged 18–35) and women (50%), supported by our partners. 

‎The new dates allow for enhanced programming, including potential appearances by icons like of the Industry. The Business Pitching Competition deadline is extended to September 30, 2025, giving entrepreneurs more time to submit innovative ideas. 

‎“We’re thrilled to reschedule MACEICA 2025 to October 24–25 to ensure a transformative experience,” said Gabriel Ubochi, Head of MACEICA 2025 Organizing Team. “This change strengthens our commitment to empowering Abuja’s creatives and fostering 2.7 million jobs.” 

MIA

‎Join the Movement!

‎Apply: Join our team and be part of something amazing!

‎Tickets: Get yours now for an unforgettable fashion experience!

‎Collaborate: Let’s work together to create something new and exciting!

‎Showcase: Spot on- Exhibition Stand -Display your brand logo on our runway and reach a wider audience!

‎Join us to shape Abuja’s creative future! Register for free at miaawaed.ng, follow #MACEICA2025 on social media for updates. 

‎Contact: 
‎Gabriel Ubochi, Head, MACEICA 2025 Organizing Team 
‎info@miaaward.ng, madeinabujainfo@gmail.com | +234 7031 511 503 
‎miaaward.ng | @maceica2025 

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‘The Chronicles of a Legend’: Igbinedion Book Launch Attracts National Leaders

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Dignitaries at the Book Launch of Chief Gabriel Osawaru Igbinedion
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The House of Igbinedion today officially launched The Chronicles of a Legend, a commemorative book detailing the extraordinary life and legacy of Chief Gabriel Osawaru Igbinedion, the Esama of the Benin Kingdom. The high-profile ceremony, held in Benin City, brought together an impressive lineup of dignitaries and national figures from across Nigeria.

Among those in attendance were former Senate President Bukola Saraki, former Delta State Governor James Ibori, Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate Peter Obi, and the Emir of Kano, Aminu Ado-Bayero, as well as representatives of the federal and Edo State governments.

The Esama of the Benin Kingdom, Chief Gabriel Osawaru Igbinedion

The publication honours Igbinedion’s trailblazing contributions to Nigeria’s development, particularly in education, transport, banking, and entrepreneurship. A respected pioneer in these sectors, the Esama’s ventures—such as the establishment of Igbinedion University, Okada, and the country’s first private airline—remain milestones in Nigeria’s private sector history.

In his remarks, Peter Obi called for deeper national appreciation of Igbinedion’s impact.

“We live in a country that often fails to celebrate its true heroes. Chief Igbinedion built the first private university, pioneered private airline operations, and was among the first recipients of a banking license. These are legacies that deserve more than honorary titles—they require national support,” Obi stated.

He went on to advocate for a shift in the criteria for national awards, urging that honours such as GCON be directed toward individuals with proven contributions to enterprise and job creation.

“The people we should be celebrating are those building the nation through productivity, not just us politicians,” Obi added, pledging an annual donation to the Esama’s endowment fund for the next decade.

James Ibori, who presented the book, also made a generous pledge of ₦100 million to Igbinedion University, dedicating ₦50 million to establish an endowed chair in Economics and the other ₦50 million to institutional support.

“He gave us education at all levels—nursery to university. What more can one man do for humanity?” Ibori said.

The event also featured remarks from George Akume, representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and Dennis Idahosa, representing Governor Godwin Obaseki, both reaffirming Igbinedion’s place as a national figure whose legacy transcends state boundaries.

The Chronicles of a Legend serves not only as a biography but as an enduring symbol of visionary leadership, philanthropy, and private sector innovation. It celebrates a life dedicated to nation-building and sets a benchmark for what it means to lead with purpose and impact.


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Events

Ethiopian Teenager Hasset Dereje Crowned Miss World Africa

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Hasset Dereje Crowned Miss World Africa
Hasset Dereje Crowned Miss World Africa
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Addis Ababa, Ethiopia 19-year-old Hasset Dereje has been crowned Miss World Africa and first runner-up at the Miss World 2025 pageant held in Hyderabad, India.

Dereje is the first Ethiopian to reach this level in over two decades.

Dereje, who is currently studying chemical engineering at Addis Ababa Science and Technology University, showcased her intelligence, talent, and beauty throughout the competition.

19-Year-Old Ethiopia’s Hasset Dereje Crowned Miss World Africa

Miss Ethiopia Hasset Dereje just made history. Crowned 1st Runner-Up at Miss World 2025 — and now holds the title of Miss World Africa. A proud moment for Ethiopia, and for the entire continent.

Her “Beauty With a Purpose” project, which focused on mental health awareness and education in rural Ethiopia, impressed the judges and highlighted her commitment to making a positive impact.


As Miss World Africa, Dereje has vowed to use her platform to promote a new narrative for Africa, highlighting the continent’s rich culture, innovation, and resilience. She aims to shift global perceptions and showcase Africa’s strength and beauty.


Dereje’s win has sparked national pride in Ethiopia, with many celebrating her achievement on social media.

Her message after the competition, in which she thanked her family, aunt, and supporters, has been widely shared and admired.


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Abuja

JCI Set To Host Inclusive Spelling Bee Competition to Empower Children with Special Needs in Abuja

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The Judges during JCI Abuja Unit’s Morufatu Olabisi Aniso (MOA) Spelling Bee Competition, 26, June 2024
The Judges during JCI Abuja Unit’s Morufatu Olabisi Aniso (MOA) Spelling Bee Competition, 26, June 2024
FIRS

**JCI Abuja Unity and DO TAKE ACTION Partner to Empower Children with Special Needs through MOA Inclusive Spelling Bee Competition and Art Exhibition**

Junior Chamber International, JCI Abuja Unity is set to host the Morufat Olabisi Aniso Inclusive Spelling Bee Competition, a groundbreaking event that puts ability over disability.

The competition, scheduled for May 30, 2025, at Novare Central Mall, Wuse Zone 5, Abuja, will feature 19 children with special needs showcasing their spelling skills and confidence.


The event in partnership with DO TAKE ACTION aims to promote inclusion and celebrate the talents of children with disabilities, often left behind in academic competitions.

Over 60 participants, volunteers, parents, and partners are expected to attend and cheer on the young contestants.

READ ALSO

Achieving SDGs: JCI Abuja Unity Advocates for Quality Education and Climate Change Mitigation

Children’s Day: Tinubu Pledges to Safeguard Rights of Nigerian Children


The competition is named in honor of JCI Senator Morufat Olabisi Aniso, the charter president of JCI Abuja Unity, a champion of community inclusion and empowerment. Her legacy serves as a symbol of excellence, empathy, and empowerment.


The event starts at 10:00 AM on May 30, 2025.

By hosting this competition, JCI Abuja Unity seeks to spell hope, inclusion, and a better tomorrow for children with special needs.

Junior Chamber International (JCI) is a global organization of young active citizens who are committed to creating positive change in their communities.

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Entertainment

Wizkid’s “Morayo Tour” Faces Uncertinty As Mutiple Dates Cancelled

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Wizkid’s “Morayo Tour” faces multiple cancellations just weeks before his North American leg kicks off
Wizkid
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Afrobeats superstar Wizkid’s highly anticipated “Morayo Live Tour” in North America has hit a snag, with four out of 11 scheduled dates reportedly cancelled.


The affected venues include State Farm Arena in Atlanta, Madison Square Garden (MSG) in New York, Scotia Bank Arena in Canada, and CFG Bank Arena in Maryland.


Despite the setback, the tour is still set to proceed in European cities, including Germany, Netherlands, and France. Fans are eagerly awaiting updates on the status of the North American leg, which is slated to kick off soon.


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