It was all pomp and pageantry as the 9th African Giants Award and Face of Art Nigeria Beauty Pageant held in Abuja attracted leading figures from politics, business, entertainment and the creative industry.
The annual event, organised by Black Giant Signature, was hosted by its Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Okpe Lawrence Okpe.
The ceremony, which began at 5pm, featured a large turnout of dignitaries, including Chief Seyi Tinubu, represented by his personal assistant.
Nollywood stars, politicians, media professionals and corporate executives also graced the red carpet.
A number of notable personalities received awards during the event. Chief Uzochukwu Akinedozi of Blake Resort Abuja was honoured as Entertainment Personality of the Year, while Oba Barr. Chukwudi Oli received the Humanitarian Award. APC National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, was named Political Man of the Year, and Senator Anthony Siyako Yaro was recognised as Political Icon of the Year.
Dr. Hajia Ramatu Ibrahim emerged Arewa Woman of the Year, with other recipients including Mr. Ali Adoyi Abah (Media Personality of the Year), Chief David Daser and Engr. Tony Nakale of Bingham TV.
The event also featured the grand finale of the Face of Art Nigeria Beauty Pageant.
From 30 contestants, seven finalists made the final cut, with 19-year-old Precious Mawah from Edo State emerging as the 9th Face of Art Nigeria.
Other winners included the 1st Runner-Up / Face of Art Charity Nigeria, Miss Philomina Enenu John; Face of Art Entertainment Nigeria, Miss Patience Danadebe; and Face of Black Giant, Miss Ruth Danjuma.
In his closing remarks, Mr. Okpe Lawrence Okpe thanked attendees for their support and announced that next year’s edition would mark the 10th anniversary of Black Giant Signature.
One of the honourees, Madam Aisha Kwalmi of Nana Berry Orphanage, expressed delight over the recognition, saying, “I have received many national and international awards, but this means more to me.”
The colourful night ended with the official coronation of the beauty queens, rounding off an evening of glamour and celebration.