London, United Kingdom — As Nigeria’s subnational leadership continues to play a crucial role in shaping national progress and grassroots transformation, H.E. Agbu Kefas, Executive Governor of Taraba State, has emerged as a dynamic force driving inclusive development and impactful governance. In recognition of his outstanding achievements, Governor Kefas was honoured with the African Leadership Impact Award at the prestigious 15th African Business Leadership Awards (ABLA) 2025, held during the landmark Africa Summit 2025 in London.
The transformational and visionary award ceremony, organised by African Leadership Magazine, took place at The Landmark London and the UK House of Commons, in the presence of over 300 high-profile leaders, including Heads of State, policymakers, global investors, and captains of industry. The African Business Leadership Awards are widely regarded as the gold standard for celebrating excellence in corporate governance, strategic innovation, and leadership impact across the continent.
Governor Kefas was selected for the African Leadership Impact Award in recognition of his commitment to people-centered governance, infrastructure revitalization, youth empowerment, and transparent administration in Taraba State. Under his leadership, the state has witnessed significant reforms across sectors such as education, healthcare, agriculture, and security, anchored on a vision to build a resilient and economically vibrant Taraba.
Known for his pragmatic approach to governance and his ability, H.E. Agbu Kefas blends visionary policymaking with grassroots engagement. As a former military officer and seasoned public servant, his administration is widely commended for fostering peace, stimulating economic growth, and delivering social impact through inclusive programs and strategic partnerships.
The Africa Summit 2025, chaired by H.E. Jakaya Kikwete, former President of Tanzania, and Dr. Ken Giami, Founder & CEO of the African Leadership Organization, was held under the theme “Africa Forward: Powering Leadership, Investments, and Competitiveness.” This year’s summit highlighted Africa’s emergence as a global growth frontier, with 24 African countries projected to achieve GDP growth rates exceeding 5%.
About African Business Leadership Awards (ABLA)
The African Business Leadership Awards (ABLA), now in its 15th year, is a flagship initiative of African Leadership Magazine that celebrates visionary leaders and institutions driving Africa’s transformation through innovation, enterprise, and resilience. As a vital platform for spotlighting African excellence often overlooked by global media, ABLA continues to honour outstanding changemakers whose leadership is redefining the continent’s business and development landscape.
About African Leadership Magazine
African Leadership Magazine, published by the African Leadership Organisation, a UK-registered company (Company No. 07435198), is the continent’s leading platform spotlighting transformational leadership and African excellence. Since 2008, it has bridged Africa and the world through compelling storytelling, high-level dialogue, and strategic events, including the Africa Summit and ABLA, engaging over 1.2 million readers globally and facilitating over $5 billion in investments and partnerships.
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