The Future Awards Africa (TFAA) has unveiled The Future Awards Africa Independent (TFAAi).
TFAAi is a bold state-driven expansion designed to extend its impact to the grassroots.
TFAAi builds on the legacy and ethos of The Future Awards Africa by intentionally identifying, recognizing, and amplifying exceptional individuals across Nigeria’s states — particularly those making meaningful impact but lacking visibility and access to major platforms.
It establishes a structured pathway for grassroots changemakers to gain recognition, mentorship, capacity support, and access to broader continental opportunities.
The statement says the initiative reinforces the belief that excellence, innovation, and impact deserve celebration regardless of geography.
Pilot in four states
The pilot phase will commence in four strategic hubs: Kano, Abia, (Aba), Rivers State (Port Harcourt); and Oyo State (Ibadan).
“In these locations, TFAAi will implement impact-driven programmes, partnerships, and community engagement activities.
“Such engagements aim at recognizing and supporting young leaders, innovators, entrepreneurs, and social changemakers.
“The initiative will feature state-level awards, open nominations, mentorship programmes, networking platforms, and stakeholder engagements.
“These activities are designed to strengthen local ecosystems while building a sustainable pipeline of emerging leaders who can transition to national and continental recognition.”
According to the statement, each pilot state will serve as a regional beacon, spotlighting its unique strengths.
“Kano State will highlight youth leadership, enterprise, and community-driven innovation across Northern Nigeria.
“Abia State (Aba) will amplify entrepreneurship, technology, and emerging industries within the South-East.
“Rivers State (Port Harcourt) will champion creativity, enterprise, and social innovation in the South-South.
“Oyo State (Ibadan) will spotlight excellence in education, culture, enterprise, and youth leadership in the South-West.
Evolution of mission
Speaking on the launch, TFAA Project Lead, Ngozi Chijuka, described the initiative as a natural evolution of the organization’s mission.
“The Future Awards Africa Independent represents the next chapter in our commitment to celebrating excellence across Nigeria and the continent.
“Through TFAAi, we are deepening our local presence and creating a more inclusive platform that ensures individuals driving meaningful change in their communities are recognized and supported where it matters most — at home.
“This expansion empowers the next generation of changemakers to thrive,” she said.
“TFAAi will operate through structured state committees and strategic partnerships with local institutions, private sector stakeholders, and community-based organizations.
“This framework is designed to ensure credibility, transparency, and long-term sustainability.
“The official rollout will begin with stakeholder engagement across the four pilot states, followed by the announcement of nomination timelines, programme activations, and state recognition events.
“With TFAAi, The Future Awards Africa signals a renewed commitment to discovering and elevating Nigeria’s brightest talents — starting from the grassroots and scaling their impact to the continent,” she concluded.
