By Princess Simon (Bureau Chief North Central, in Minna)
The first, "Igbo Excellence Awards" aimed at amongst others at recognizing and celebrating Igbo achievers, business leaders and community stakeholders and friends of ndi Igbo in Niger state and north-central region in general comes up this weekend.
The event Organised by Igbo Community Association (ICA), Minna in collaboration with; Greenwalls Initiative, an Abuja-based Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO) will include the confernment of, "Enyi Ndigbo" Award on the Speaker of Niger State House of Assembly, Hon. Abdulmalik Muhammad Sarkindaji for bridging tribal and religious barriers in the state.
Spokesperson for the organizers, Patrick Chihozie Okafor popularly known as, "Mazi Paripa", said the Igbo Excellence Awards and Dinner, Minna which will host notable Igbo celebrities in the entertainment industry, including Eco De Coque will take place at Posh Event Center, Minna.
Sons and daughters of Igbo land from within Niger state, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja and north-central region who distinguished themselves in their various fields of endeavour will be recognized and celebrated, the organizers said.
Apart from recognizing and appreciating Igbos who have distinguished themselves in various spheres of life Okafor in an interview said, "We are also recognizing and honouring friends of ndi Igbo from other ethnic groupings who have demonstrated friendship, and extending hands of support, and solidarity with Igbo community in Niger state".
The event titled, IGBO EXCELLENCE AWARDS AND DINNER MINNA 2026, will take place on Sunday, 1st of November 2026, at Posh Event Center, Minna, Niger state starting with the red carpet which will commence by 3:00 pm same day, while the main event begins at 5:00 pm.
"This promises to be an exciting and memorable occasion featuring Igbo prominent entertainers and cultural performers, including Amb. Dr. Eco De Coque, MC Paparazzi, MC Roobodo, Ijele of Abuja, Big Crown, and many others".
The event, according to him will feature award presentations, comedy, live band performances, different types of masquerade displays, traditional Ogene music, opportunities for networking, dinner, and other exciting cultural activities by ndigbo and for all the Igbos present.
The one-day celebration of excellence, unity, cultural heritage, and friendship of Ndi Igbo Award, he said expects personalities to play key roles at the event such as Oba Chief George Dike (Haske), to deliver keynote address.
Also, High Chief Prof. Casmir Obialom will serve as the Motivator, while Dr. Sebastian Nwaogwugwu Ogwu, coming all the way from Enugu will be the Anchor of the maiden event alongside MC Paparazzi.
Okafor who emphasized that it is not going to be just presentating awards said the event will be more about; recognizing hard work, celebrating achievements, promotion and strengthening Igbo culture and tradition, and as well, relationships with host communities and individuals who have contributed positively to the unity, progress and development of Ndi Igbo. NNL.
