Susan Abayomi
Former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, the Olu of Warri, His Majesty Ogiame Atuwatse III, and his wife, Olori Atuwatse III, are expected to headline the third edition of the Megastar Man of the Decade Awards 2026.
The prestigious event is scheduled to hold on October 16, 2026, at the Wells Carlton Hotel and Apartments in Abuja, with Jonathan billed to deliver the keynote address.
Themed “The Road to 2027: Citizens, Stakeholders, and the Democracy We Choose,” the event will bring together personalities from politics, traditional institutions, business, academia and public service to discuss issues surrounding citizenship, leadership and Nigeria’s democratic development.
According to the organisers, the former president’s keynote address will focus attention on the responsibilities of citizens and other stakeholders in strengthening democratic institutions and promoting peaceful political participation ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The Olu of Warri and Olori Atuwatse III will serve as the Royal Father and Mother of the Day respectively. The organisers said their participation highlights the role of traditional institutions in promoting peace, stability, cultural continuity and national cohesion.
The ceremony will also feature a high-powered panel session involving several prominent Nigerians, including former Senate President Bukola Saraki; former Ondo State Governor Olusegun Mimiko; Senator Gbenga Daniel; Senator Ned Nwoko; and former Edo State Governor Adams Oshiomhole.
Other expected panelists include Edo State Deputy Governor Dennis Idahosa, constitutional scholar Dr Sam Amadi, UTM FLNG Group Managing Director Julius Rone, Franklin Nechi of Optiva Capital Partners, and the founder of Irvin Global and Investment Group, Dr Nwangwa Uzonna.
The panel is expected to examine the responsibilities of citizens, political leaders, traditional institutions, businesses and other stakeholders in shaping the direction of Nigeria’s democracy.
The organisers said the theme was selected to encourage Nigerians to look beyond elections and political offices and consider the importance of active citizenship, accountable leadership, credible institutions and peaceful participation.
Beyond the discussions, the awards will recognise Nigerians who have made notable contributions in their respective fields, while providing a platform for conversations on the country’s democratic and socio-economic development.
The organisers said the third edition would bring together influential figures to celebrate excellence, leadership and service.
The event will be broadcast live on Arise TV and Channels Television.
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 further strengthen the platform’s commitment to recognising excellence and encouraging constructive conversations on national issues.
