Jonathan, Olu of Warri to Lead Megastar Awards 2026

Former President Goodluck Jonathan and the Olu of Warri, His Majesty Ogiame Atuwatse III, alongside 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 take place on October 16, 2026, at the Wells Carlton Hotel and Apartments in Abuja.

Jonathan, who is expected to deliver the keynote address, will speak on the theme of the event, “The Road to 2027: Citizens, Stakeholders, and the Democracy We Choose.”

The theme is expected to focus attention on the responsibilities of citizens, political leaders and other stakeholders as Nigeria prepares for the 2027 general elections.

The former president’s participation is also expected to bring his experience in democratic governance to the discussions, particularly his role in the transition of power after the 2015 presidential election.

The Olu of Warri and Olori Atuwatse III will serve as the Royal Father and Mother of the Day. The organisers said their involvement reflects the role of traditional institutions in promoting peace, unity, stability and cultural values.

The awards ceremony will also feature a high-powered panel session involving prominent political, academic and business figures.

Those expected to participate include former Senate President Bukola Saraki; former Ondo State Governor Olusegun Mimiko; Senator Gbenga Daniel; Senator Ned Nwoko; and former Edo State Governor Adams Oshiomhole.

Others include Edo State Deputy Governor Dennis Idahosa; constitutional scholar Dr Sam Amadi; Group Managing Director of UTM FLNG, Julius Rone; Franklin Nechi of Optiva Capital Partners; and Founder of Irvin Global and Investment Group, Dr Nwangwa Uzonna.

The panel is expected to examine the responsibilities of citizens, political leaders, traditional rulers, businesses and other stakeholders in shaping Nigeria’s democracy ahead of the 2027 elections.

According to the organisers, 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 political participation.

They also stressed the importance of traditional rulers in maintaining social cohesion, noting that traditional institutions often serve as symbols of continuity and stability despite changes in government.

Apart from the discussions, the 2026 Megastar Awards will recognise Nigerians who have made notable contributions in their various fields.

The organisers said the event would bring together prominent figures from politics, traditional institutions, business, academia and public service to celebrate excellence and discuss issues affecting Nigeria’s democratic and socio-economic development.

The ceremony will be broadcast live on Arise TV and Channels Television, allowing viewers in Nigeria and other parts of the world to follow the event.

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 focus on excellence, leadership and service.

They also called on Nigerians, especially political and institutional stakeholders, to support peaceful, inclusive and sustainable democratic processes as the country moves towards the 2027 elections.