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The 2025 edition of the Expatriate Business Awards (TEBA) held in Lagos recently brought together a mix of high-ranking officials, diplomats, celebrities and business leaders to celebrate the growing influence of expatriate experts on Nigeria's vibrant multicultural economy and national development.
The Black Thai event, with its theme of global excellence and intercultural unification, attracted a prominent guest list, including speakers from the Lagos State Assembly. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa was the chief guest of the event. Also attended was Turkish Airlines' top executive, Rokman Balkan. Famous actresses Lillian Bach and Lonia Mann. Riya Abdul, a broadcasting sensation born in Ghana.
The annual ceremony recognizes outstanding achievements from foreign-led companies and foreign-born experts that have contributed meaningfully to Nigeria's GDP and socioeconomic landscape. Unlike traditional business awards focusing solely on local players, TEBA is a trademark platform that celebrates ethnic companies, cultural collaboration and international innovation within Nigeria.
Egyptian-born media consultant Ranier Eleva, who also won the Diaspora Pioneer Award, and Cameroonian music comedy star Danny Green (aka 237 Town Cryer), evening blend elegance and energy, captivating cultural showcases, comedy, live music and curated exhibitions.
One of the important highlights of the evening was the presentation of coveted awards to outstanding individuals and organizations in diverse sectors, including aviation, media, technology, entrepreneurship and entertainment.
Turkish Airlines has decided on the expatriate airline for 2024/25, recognising its consistent service and increased connectivity across Africa. Bach received the Diaspora distinction award for his contributions to film and cultural advocacy. Abdul was chosen for this year's diaspora revelation, and Ronia Mann won the crossover actress actress for her shocking work at local cinemas.
Aviation pioneers also had moments. Avsatel Communications Ltd., led by Austrian-born MBA Georg Eder, has won the Aviation Safety Championship of the year. Mace Industries Ltd., owned by Manoj Tagjiani, has appeared in the Aviation Technology Company of the Year. Cameroonian entertainer Danny Green was awarded the talent of the year for cross-border talent.
Entrepreneurship has also been highlighted. Pascale Olumayowa Rafqa has received his expatriate Entrepreneur of the Year. At the same time, Polish-born chef Alice Antetona (commonly known as “Oyinbo Olonje”) was recognized as a cross-cultural culinary ambassador for the fusion of Polish roots and Nigerian cuisine. Gambian hairdresser Zainab Fatty has been awarded this year's cereal entrepreneur, while Swiss-born Janis Udog has received the Heritage Embrace Award for her passion for Nigerian culture.
Top international organizations were not excluded. CCECC has acquired the construction company of the year, and Nigerbirds Engineering has been recognized as an emerging aviation powerhouse.
In his remarks, Obasa praised the organizers for creating a platform that highlighted the active contributions of expatriates to Nigeria's economic and cultural evolution.
“Teva is not just an award event, it's a statement on the values of diversity, inclusivity and global business diplomacy. Lagos, and indeed, Nigeria, has established itself as a hub for multicultural investment and growth,” Obasa said.
He called for further cooperation between government and private sector actors to exploit the diaspora-led innovation and corporate advantages.
As an outstanding feature, event sponsors and partners enjoyed widespread visibility among decision makers, industry leaders and government stakeholders, strengthening Teba's height as the best platform for high levels of networking and global awareness.
With the success of the 2025 edition, Expatriates Business Awards has established itself as a unified force in Nigerian businesses and creative sectors, promoting business excellence, cultural synergies and international collaboration.
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