By Prisca Iffy
On Saturday, January 31, 2026, Sun Newspapers Publishing Limited once again asserted its influence in Nigeria’s print media space as it honoured 34 outstanding business leaders, industry experts, political figures, and two financial institutions for their remarkable contributions to key sectors of the national economy.
The 24th edition of the Sun Annual Awards, held at the Expo Convention Centre, Eko Hotels and Suites, Lagos, attracted an impressive gathering of dignitaries, special guests, and award recipients. Among the evening’s most celebrated honourees was High Chief Duru Mike Ejiogu (Onowu of Igboland), Chairman of Citygate Homes, whose presence commanded attention not through flamboyance, but through a legacy of consistency, vision, and quiet excellence.
At the height of the ceremony, High Chief Ejiogu was formally presented with the Sun Entrepreneur of the Year Award 2025 by the Chairman of New Nigeria Airlines, Prof. Obiora Okonkwo, alongside the Founder of Sun Newspapers, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu.
The honour recognised a career defined by resilience, transformative leadership, and sustained impact within Nigeria’s real estate and business sectors.
The red carpet reception, which commenced at 4:00 p.m., set the tone for an evening of grandeur. However, it was the recognition of High Chief Ejiogu that underscored the theme of the night, “Celebrating Uncommon Achievers.” His journey exemplified the values the award sought to uphold discipline, innovation, and long-term value creation while raising the bar for emerging entrepreneurs across the country.
The ceremony was chaired by Chief Barrister Allen Onyema, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Air Peace Airlines, and drew an exceptional assembly of national leaders. In attendance were representatives of the President of the Nigerian Senate, Senator Godswill Akpabio, the Deputy Senate President, Senator Jibrin Barau, and several state governors, including His Excellency Barr. Dr. Peter Mbah (Enugu State), His Excellency Dauda Lawal (Zamfara State), His Excellency Abba Kabir Yusuf (Kano State), His Excellency Bassey Otu (Cross River State), His Excellency Dapo Abiodun (Ogun State), as well as the Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, Olayemi Cardoso. Ministers, diplomats, traditional rulers, and captains of industry also graced the occasion, further underscoring the prestige of the awards.
While achievers across governance, enterprise, public service, and the creative arts were celebrated, High Chief Duru Mike Ejiogu’s recognition anchored the evening. His honour reinforced a timeless truth: enduring success is rarely loud it is deliberate, consistent, and grounded in integrity.
The event was broadcast live and streamed online, allowing Nigerians across the globe to witness the moment. As High Chief Ejiogu received his award, the applause went beyond ceremony, serving as a collective affirmation of leadership built on purpose and lasting impact.
According to the Publisher of 4th Estate Reporters, Njoku Macdonald Obinna, the colourful ceremony was attended by family members, friends, community leaders, and business associates of High Chief Ejiogu. Notable among them were High Chief Goodwill Ebere Uzozie, Chairman of G.U. Ebeco Industries Ltd; Dr. Gideon C. Osi; Chief Obinna Unachukwu; Sir Dr. Kelvin Chukwumobi (Ike Ukpor); Chief Evans Enesim; Chief Frank Nnana Nnadi; Chief Okeke Nicky Jonas, MON; Prince Joseph Okafor; High Chief Christian Okechi Madugba; Chief Amb. Dr. Aforjama Joachim; High Chief Dr. Christopher Ndubuisi; Chief Michael Chris Okonkwo; Chief Obinna Ugozu, among several others.
The evening was marked by elegance, social camaraderie, and impeccable hospitality. The venue was tastefully decorated in red and white, reflecting the brand colours of Sun Newspapers, while guests were treated to exotic wines and a sumptuous dinner.
The 2025 Sun Newspapers Awards not only placed High Chief Duru Mike Ejiogu firmly in the national spotlight as Entrepreneur of the Year, but also celebrated him as a symbol of uncommon achievement, a source of inspiration for future entrepreneurs, and a testament to what disciplined vision and strong values can accomplish. The wave of congratulatory advertorials from friends, associates, and influential figures across the country further attested to his widespread goodwill and formidable social capital.
