By Innocent Anaba

CITYMAG Newspaper has announced plans to host the 2026 edition of its prestigious CITYMAG Awards, an event dedicated to recognising and celebrating 40 distinguished Global Impact Makers whose contributions have significantly influenced lives, communities, industries and nations.

The awards ceremony is scheduled to take place on  July 4, 2026, at Garden Top Hotel, Festac, Lagos, and is expected to attract a high-profile audience comprising government officials, business leaders, diplomats, entertainers, media personalities and guests from across Africa, the United States and other parts of the world.

According to the organisers, this year’s edition will honour outstanding personalities whose achievements in leadership, business, philanthropy, entertainment, public service and cultural development have left lasting impacts on society.

The event, themed “Honoring Excellence, Celebrating Legacy,” aims to spotlight individuals whose accomplishments have shaped industries, inspired generations and contributed to Africa’s positive image on the global stage.

Speaking on the significance of the awards, the Publisher and President of CITYMAG Newspaper, Dr. Debby Silas, popularly known as Debby Classique, said the initiative was established to preserve the stories and celebrate the contributions of exceptional individuals whose impact predates the social media era.

She noted that many of the award recipients have dedicated decades to building institutions, creating opportunities, preserving culture, advancing development and inspiring future generations through selfless service and commitment to excellence.

“Many of these great men and women have spent decades building institutions, creating opportunities, preserving culture and inspiring generations. CITYMAG Awards is our way of documenting their stories, reminding the world of their contributions and giving them the honour they truly deserve,” she said.

Silas explained that beyond receiving the prestigious CITYMAG trophy, honourees would be featured in special newspaper publications, documentary productions and international media campaigns designed to showcase their achievements and preserve their legacies for future generations.

She added that the awards align with CITYMAG Newspaper’s mission of promoting excellence, celebrating achievements and telling impactful stories that inspire positive change within communities around the world.

Industry stakeholders have described the awards as a unique platform for recognising visionary leaders, innovators, philanthropists and public servants whose efforts have contributed to sustainable development and societal transformation.

Organisers expressed confidence that the 2026 edition would further strengthen the culture of recognising excellence while encouraging younger generations to pursue impactful careers and make meaningful contributions to humanity.

The event is also expected to provide opportunities for networking, collaboration and the exchange of ideas among influential personalities from diverse sectors, fostering partnerships that support development and social progress.

CITYMAG Newspaper, an international media platform, has continued to distinguish itself through its commitment to celebrating excellence, preserving legacies and promoting inspiring stories that resonate across borders.

As preparations gather momentum, organisers say CITYMAG Awards 2026 promises to be one of the most prestigious gatherings dedicated to honouring excellence, preserving history and inspiring future generations through the celebration of extraordinary achievements.