The 2025 edition of the prestigious EDGE Awards, organized by Marketing Edge Publications Ltd., held in Lagos on Saturday, September 26, 2025, with the theme “Excellence Beyond Borders.” The colourful ceremony brought together captains of industry, corporate executives, creative agencies, policymakers, distinguished personalities from both the public and private sectors, and the media to celebrate innovation, creativity, and brand excellence.
In his welcome address, Chief John Ajayi, Publisher/CEO of Marketing Edge Group, expressed gratitude to God for sustaining the vision of the awards for over thirteen years. He commended the Nigerian business community, the marketing and advertising sector, sponsors, exhibitors, and patrons for their unwavering support, noting that the EDGE Awards has become one of the most anticipated annual gatherings in the integrated marketing communications ecosystem.
Chief Ajayi acknowledged the award committee, the editorial board, and the business intelligence unit for their painstaking efforts in selecting winners through data, content analysis, and investigative journalism. He praised the honorees as inspirations whose achievements embody dedication, passion, and resilience. “Tonight, we are gathered to celebrate the achievements of some of the most successful brands, creative agencies, public service and political brand personalities, and professionals of distinction across borders,” he said. He emphasized that awards ceremonies play an important role in recognizing hard work, rewarding service, and inspiring others to strive for excellence.
Tracing the journey of the awards, Ajayi recalled how Marketing Edge marked its 10th anniversary in 2013 with the launch of a two-in-one event, the National Marketing Stakeholders Summit and the Brand and Advertising Excellence Awards, which has since evolved into the EDGE Awards. He noted that the event has grown into a powerhouse that fosters industry-wide dialogue, provides knowledge-sharing opportunities, and honors outstanding contributions across sectors including oil and gas, ICT, insurance, health, real estate, transportation, and politics.
The Executive Governor of Ekiti State, His Excellency Abiodun Abayomi Oyebanji, who served as Chairman of the event, delivered a keynote address titled “Ekiti as a New Investment Destination in Nigeria.” Governor Oyebanji praised the resilience and innovation of Nigeria’s marketing communication industry, describing it as a multi-billion-naira sector that continues to play a vital role in national growth and development.
Highlighting Ekiti State’s economic strides, the Governor outlined his administration’s efforts in infrastructure, energy, agriculture, tourism, and knowledge economy development. He cited the newly developed Ekiti International Agro-Allied Airport, extensive road projects, electricity reforms, and the establishment of the Ekiti Knowledge Zone as part of his government’s commitment to positioning the state as a prime investment destination. He extended an open invitation to investors, assuring them of a conducive environment backed by reforms in ease of doing business, land acquisition, and tax incentives.
Governor Oyebanji also paid tribute to Chief Ajayi for his vision and dedication in building Marketing Edge into a leading publication and media platform, applauding its role in thought leadership and in promoting the creative economy.
The evening culminated in the recognition of outstanding brands, agencies, businesses, and individuals whose creativity, innovation, and impact have shaped industries and driven excellence. Chief Ajayi congratulated all winners and underscored that their achievements are a beacon of inspiration for others.
The EDGE Awards 2025 reinforced its position as a landmark event celebrating excellence, innovation, and leadership, while also serving as a platform to spotlight Nigeria’s growing creative economy and investment opportunities.
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