National Security Adviser (NSA) Nuhu Ribadu and Enoch Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), have been recognised among the 100 Most Reputable Africans for 2025.

The list released on Sunday by Reputation Poll International (RPI), in partnership with the Global Reputation Forum, had the names of other notable Nigerians and African leaders.

The list featured men and women from diverse sectors across the continent who had excelled in technology, creative industries, sports, public service, academia and environmental advocacy.

Mr Ribadu’s nomination stemmed from his leadership of the nation’s security apparatus, leading to enhanced synergy between the country’s military and other security and intelligence agencies.

“This is a celebration of African excellence and a call to recognise those shaping the future of the continent with their unwavering commitment to progress and innovation.

“Honorees were chosen for their significant local and global influence as well as their ability to create meaningful change.

“The 2025 honorees were selected through a rigorous methodology based on integrity, ethical leadership and commitment to societal well-being.

“They were also selected through the impact of contributions to transformative projects and initiatives as well as the recognition and influence within their respective fields,” the organisers said on the website.

The “roll of honour”, released on the organisation’s website, also had the names of Paul Enenche, the founder of the Dunamis International Gospel Church,  Cosmos Maduka, chairman of Coscharis Motors and Gbemisola Saraki.

While Messrs Enenche and Adeboye have appeared on the list in the past, Daniel Olukoya, founder of the Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries, is appearing for the first time.

Others are Bala Wunti, the group general manager of the National Petroleum Investment Management Services (NAPIMS); Tony Elumelu, chairman of the United Bank for Africa (UBA), and songwriter and worship singer Osinachi Egbu, popularly known as “Sinach”.

Also on the list is Olukemi Badenoch, a Nigerian-born British politician serving as the leader of the opposition and leader of the Conservative Party since November 2024.

President-elect of Ghana, John Mahama, who won an election for his second term in office; Benedict Oramah, president of Afrexim Bank; and Mo Ibrahim, a Sudanese-British billionaire businessman, are the other notable African leaders that made the list.

Isatou Ceesay of Gambia, one of the honorees, was notable for advocating climate resilience and sustainable development. She redefined sustainability through her innovative approach to waste management and women’s empowerment, turning plastic waste into economic opportunities for rural women.

Karen Matsiko of South Africa, another honoree, was notable in finance and corporate governance and was found worthy as an exceptional leader in banking and logistics, focusing on trade finance and sustainable trends in emerging markets.

Former President Goodluck Jonathan;  Jennifer Douglas, managing partner of the Miyetti Law Firm; and Ogiame Atuwatse, the Olu of Warri, made the list in previous editions.

William Kumuyi, founder and general superintendent of the Deeper Christian Life Ministry and David Oyedepo, founder of the Living Faith Church Worldwide, were among the 2023 honorees. 

(NAN)