International recognition, educational cooperation and stronger Africa–UK relations marked the three-day gathering in London.

LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM

As African nations pursue economic transformation, the contributions of political institutions, entrepreneurs, traditional authorities and diaspora communities are becoming increasingly important. International platforms connecting these stakeholders offer opportunities to strengthen governance, attract investment and support practical development.

The 11th Annual London Political Summit and Awards (LPSA) 2026, which concluded on 14 October, brought together diplomats, government representatives, business executives and community leaders for three days of discussions and recognition.

Founded and convened by Mazi Godson Azu, the programme honoured the legacy of former Kenyan Prime Minister Raila Amolo Odinga while promoting democratic peace, economic cooperation and responsible leadership.

Activities included a business dialogue at the Institute of Directors, a parliamentary session at Westminster and an awards reception celebrating achievements across politics, diplomacy, enterprise, education and community service.

African Leaders and Diaspora Achievers Honoured:
Among the principal honours was the posthumous Raila–Uhuru Africa Peace Accord Award presented to the late Rt. Hon. Raila Amolo Odinga. Kenyan President Dr. William Samoei Ruto received the LPSA Africa President of the Year 2026 Award.

Nigeria’s Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, and Sokoto State Governor, Ahmad Aliyu Sokoto, were also recognised for subnational governance and development.

Other distinguished recipients included:
Chief Ibrahim Dende Egungbohun (IBD Dende) — Chairman/CEO, IBD Group International.
Mr. David Smith — CEO, British Africa Consulting UK.
Comdt. Amb. Alistair Soyode — Founder/CEO, BEN Television London/Africa Network.
Mrs. Adebisi Adebayo — BBC.
Dr. Mrs. Adeola Adeleye Fasubaa — Director-General, Ekiti State Diaspora Relations Office.
Dr. Anna Vanderpuye — CEO/Director, INGO Third Sector Resource Ltd and African Business Roundtable, UK Chapter.
Mr. Joel Popoola — Chair, Africa Group, Institute of Directors (IoD).
Professor Chris Imafidon — Chair, Board of Directors, Excellence in Education (EIE), University of Cambridge.
Dr. Clinton Liu, PhD — Founder/CEO, MCG Group, UK/Canada.
Mr. Kingsley Omokhuale — Chairman, Methodist Boys High School Lagos Old Boys Association (MBHSOBA), UK/Europe.
Councillor Rosaline Ogunro — Worshipful Mayor of Islington.
H.E. Ambassador Sabah Zita Okaikoi Benson — Ghana’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom.

The recognition of Comdt. Amb. Alistair Soyode also acknowledged the importance of diaspora leadership, media development and community mobilisation in strengthening Africa’s international connections.

Business Executives and Diplomatic Leadership Recognised:
Additional business honours went to

Mr. Omar Hussain, CEO/Executive Director, Ilmora Holdings UK;

Mr. Ahmed Abdelfatah, Managing Director, Study Now UK;

Dr. Ashraf Abdelfatah, CEO, Platinum Education Services UK; and

Ms. Liz Joseph, Director, Cirble LLC.

The presentations were led by Gambian High Commissioner Dr. Fatou Bensouda, supported by Summit Chair Professor Kishan Devani BEM. Traditional leaders HRH Oba Ambassador Dr. Olusegun Aderemi JP and HRM Obonganwan Marie Erete also participated in presenting awards.

Dr. Bensouda subsequently received the LPSA Commonwealth Diplomat of the Year 2026 Award, recognising her contributions to peace, justice, equality and diplomatic cooperation.

Her award was presented by Professor Devani, supported by Mayor Rosaline Ogunro, Kenya’s Deputy High Commissioner Ambassador Irene Maswan, and Summit Co-Chair Ambassador Dr. Josephine Ojiambo.

BookAidAfrica and Benue State Agree on Academic Book Donation:

A significant practical outcome was the presentation of a Memorandum of Understanding between BookAidAfrica UK and the Benue State Government for the donation of five containers of academic books to school libraries.

The agreement was presented by Professor Mrs. Elewachi Okike, Chief Executive Officer of BookAidAfrica UK, and Hon. Dr. Margaret Adamu, Benue State Commissioner for Education and Knowledge Management, representing Governor Hyacinth Alia.

The initiative aims to improve access to learning materials, strengthen school libraries and encourage reading among young Nigerians.

It also demonstrates how partnerships involving diaspora organisations, charitable institutions and governments can address educational needs. Its ultimate impact will depend on the successful delivery and distribution of the materials.

Workplace Safety and Community Contributions Highlighted:

The Occupational Safety and Health Association UK (OSHA UK), led by Engr. Dr. Emmanuel Uwalaka, conducted an induction and investiture of new Safety Ambassadors.

According to the organisers, the Gambian High Commissioner and the governors of Benue and Sokoto States were among those recognised, highlighting workplace safety as an important aspect of responsible governance and industrial development.

Appreciation awards were also presented to HRH Oba Ambassador Dr. Olusegun Aderemi JP; HRM Obonganwan Marie Erete; Chief Dr. Clifford Atile; Alhaji Musa M. Jazuli; Mr. Juan Cabrera; Kachi Okezie Esq.; Heritage TV; Voice Magazine; and The Nigeria Voice, alongside other supporters.

Their contributions reflected the value of cooperation among media organisations, professional associations, traditional institutions and community networks.

Founder Godson Azu Considers Kenya Edition in 2027:

In his closing remarks, Summit Founder and Convener Mazi Godson Azu thanked participating governments, diplomatic missions, sponsors, award recipients and organising partners.

He acknowledged Summit Chair Professor Kishan Devani BEM; Co-Chair Ambassador Dr. Josephine Ojiambo; parliamentary host Rt. Hon. Oliver Ryan MP; Mr. Joel Popoola of the IoD Africa Group; Mr. Juan Cabrera of the IoD Natural Resources Group; Ms. Julie Ojiambo; and gala host Ms. Rosé Graham, alongside other contributors.

Azu reaffirmed the Summit’s commitment to accountable governance, environmental sustainability, trade, investment and peaceful international relations.

He disclosed that the proposed 12th Annual London Political Summit and Awards in 2027 could include an African edition in Kenya, subject to consultations with relevant stakeholders.

The proposed expansion would create opportunities for deeper engagement with African institutions while sustaining the democratic and Pan-African legacy of Raila Odinga.

From International Recognition to Measurable Development

The Summit’s emphasis on “Trade for Peace” reinforced the connection between political stability, commercial relationships and shared prosperity.

Its discussions also highlighted climate resilience, institutional accountability and inclusive leadership as essential to sustainable development.

Beyond ceremonial recognition, the BookAidAfrica–Benue education partnership demonstrated how international gatherings can help mobilise resources for local communities.

For African countries and their diaspora, the broader opportunity lies in converting diplomatic relationships, professional expertise and investment networks into stronger institutions, employment and educational advancement.

The long-term significance of LPSA 2026 will therefore rest not only on the achievements celebrated in London, but also on the partnerships sustained and practical results delivered.

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