The Mirror Newspaper opens nominations for 2026 Awards, unveils 251 award categories

Mercy Iheoma Ihedigbo

The Mirror Newspaper has announced the commencement of nominations for the prestigious The Mirror Newspaper 2026 Awards, calling on the general public to submit the names of deserving individuals, organisations, institutions and public office holders who have distinguished themselves through exemplary leadership, innovation, integrity and impactful service.

The awards, scheduled to hold on Tuesday, December 8, 2026, at the Oriental Hotel, Lekki Road, Victoria Island, Lagos, will recognise excellence across virtually every sector of the Nigerian economy and public service.

According to the newspaper Managing Director and Editor-in-Chief, Rev. Stanley Ihedigbo, nominations are now open to the public, corporate organisations, professional bodies, government institutions, civil society organisations and other stakeholders.

Interested nominators are expected to submit the name of their nominee, the preferred award category, a brief profile and a recent photograph via email to themirrorngemail@gmail.com.

He stated that the 2026 edition will feature 251 award categories, making it one of the most comprehensive recognition platforms in Nigeria.

The categories cover governance, politics, banking and finance, education, healthcare, insurance, ICT, telecommunications, manufacturing, agriculture, maritime, aviation, oil and gas, security, media, entrepreneurship, marketing communications, hospitality, tourism, youth development, humanitarian services, real estate, transportation, public administration, law enforcement, corporate excellence and community development.

Other categories include honours for outstanding governors, deputy governors, senators, members of the House of Representatives, commissioners, heads of government agencies, permanent secretaries, security officers, military personnel, customs and immigration officers, anti-corruption champions, journalists, publishers, corporate leaders, chief executive officers, entrepreneurs, innovators, educational institutions, humanitarian organisations and distinguished Nigerians who have made remarkable contributions to national development.

The awards will also recognise exceptional performances in environmental sustainability, digital transformation, industrial development, investment promotion, women and youth empowerment, peacebuilding, public sector reforms, blue economy development, innovation, corporate social responsibility and leadership excellence.

A major highlight of the 2026 edition is the introduction of 30 specialised Governor of the Year categories, which will recognise outstanding state governors in areas such as infrastructure development, education, healthcare delivery, agriculture and food security, economic development and investment, security, digital transformation, environmental sustainability, transportation, housing, rural development, tourism, fiscal responsibility, innovation, public sector reform, blue economy development, leadership excellence and overall performance.

The organiser said the awards are aimed at encouraging excellence, promoting accountability and celebrating individuals and organisations whose achievements have positively impacted society and contributed to Nigeria’s growth.

The statement emphasised that nominees will be evaluated on merit, measurable achievements, innovation, ethical leadership and their contributions to national development.

Members of the public have therefore been encouraged to participate actively in the nomination process by identifying and recommending deserving candidates from both the public and private sectors.

For sponsorship and partnership enquiries, interested organisations and individuals are encouraged to contact.

The Mirror Newspaper said the 2026 Awards will once again provide a platform to celebrate excellence, honour outstanding achievements and inspire a culture of integrity, innovation and national service across Nigeria.