
The Nigeria Wikimedia Community Distinguished Awards is a prestigious annual event that shines light on individuals who have made remarkable contributions to the Wikimedia community in Nigeria. Conceptualized in 2023 by the Wikimedia Usergroup Nigeria, the award aims to recognize the passion and dedication of Wikimedians committed to bridging the knowledge gap in the country and has become a cornerstone of the Wikimedia movement in Nigeria.
The 2024 ceremony took place on September 12, 2024, during the Wiki Conference Nigeria at the exclusive Serene Hotel, Abuja. The event honored outstanding contributors across eight categories, recognizing their tireless efforts and commitment to advancing the Wikimedia movement in Nigeria. The ceremony was attended by various dignitaries, including government officials, and anchored by the talented Peleumi Aina and Wilson Oluoha.

Before we delve into the details of the awards, we take a moment to celebrate the life of Wilson Oluoha, who co-presented the awards ceremony. Sadly, Wilson passed away on September 13, 2024, leaving behind a profound legacy of dedication and camaraderie within the Nigeria Wikimedia community. His memory will always hold a special place in our hearts.
The awards ceremony was the culmination of a month-long voting process, where community members enthusiastically cast their votes across six categories. This engagement not only highlighted the vibrant spirit of collaboration but also showcased the extraordinary contributions made by Wikimedians throughout the year.
The evening kicked off with an electrifying cultural performance by Onyinye Achukwu from the Igbo Wikimedia Usergroup, who entertained the audience with her energetic dance. This stunning performance set the stage for the festivities to come.

Following this, the audience stood in unison for a heartfelt rendition of the Nigerian national anthem, led by the inspiring Real Brass Band. The anticipation in the room was electric as the audience prepared for the official proceedings.




The opening speech was delivered by Olaniyan Olushola, the Chairman of Wikimedia Nigeria’s Board of Trustees where he delivered an inspiring open speech. He emphasized the importance of recognizing the dedication of every volunteer and articulated the core purpose of the awards—to celebrate the tireless work that empowers individuals and enriches knowledge throughout Nigeria.
Then followed by the honorary guest speech by the President of the Senate of Nigeria in the person of HE Godswill Akpabio which was ably represented by Hon. Dr. Patrick Umoh, a member of the Federal House of Representatives who offered heartfelt remarks encouraging Wikimedians to embrace growth and collaboration. His praise for the awards highlighted the significance of fostering community enthusiasm and commitment.


Before announcing the award categories, we were treated to a delightful chant performance by Enitan Adewale from the Yoruba Wikimedia Usergroup, who mesmerized the crowd with his beautiful voice, adding an enchanting touch, captivating the audience, and transitioning us into the heart of the awards ceremony.

As we prepared to honor our outstanding contributors, Ayokanmi Oyeyemi, the Chair of the Awards Committee, delivered a rousing speech that underlined the significance of the awards. He articulated the vital role each category plays in recognizing specialized contributions that uplift the Wikimedia projects and community in Nigeria. This year, we celebrated eight distinguished categories, each crafted to honor the unique efforts of our community members:
- Best New Contributor Award: Celebrates the most promising new contributor who joined in 2024 and significantly enhanced Wikipedia and its sister projects.
- Best Indigenous Language Contributor Award: Honors an individual for their exceptional work in promoting and preserving indigenous languages through Wikimedia projects. This award recognizes those dedicated to creating and improving articles in local language Wikipedias.
- Editor of the Year Award: Acknowledges the most active contributions made by an individual aimed at advancing the quality of content on Wikimedia projects during 2024. The recipient must exhibit unwavering commitment and a high edit count.
- Community Builder Award: Recognizes individuals who have invested time and effort into building a supportive Wikimedia community in Nigeria, promoting inclusivity and growth in 2024.
- Torchbearer Award: Acknowledges a community member known for their supportiveness and friendliness, fostering a welcoming atmosphere for all contributors.
- Media Contributor of the Year Award: Celebrates impactful contributions made through media such as images, audio, or video content. The recipient demonstrates creativity and technical skill in enhancing Wikimedia projects.
- Best Active Network/Fan Club Award – This award recognizes the most active and successful Wikimedia Usergroup Nigeria Network/Fan club in Nigeria for 2024
- Lifetime Achievement Award (non-voting category) for a Wikimedian and Non-Wikimedian- The Lifetime Achievement Award is not just an accolade but also a symbol of the recipient’s legacy in the Wikimedia movement. It reminds us that their work will continue to inspire future generations of Wikimedians, and their unwavering dedication to the movement will continue to shape the Nigerian Wikimedia community for years to come.
Best New Contributors Award
The first award category of the night to be unveiled was the Best New Contributors Award, which was presented by Dr. Ngozi Osuchukwu, an outstanding librarian. The category was won by SafariScribe with outstanding contributions as he joined the Wikimedia space in January 2024 and has authored over 100 quality articles on the English Wikipedia.


The award recipient joined the Wikimedia community on January 13th, 2024, SafariScribe has made an incredible impact. With a passion for bridging the knowledge gap, he has dedicated himself to creating high-quality content on the English Wikipedia. In just a short period, he has created an impressive 85 articles, covering a wide range of topics, and achieved a remarkable edit count of 43,000. SafariScribe’s commitment to content creation and productive discussions has earned him this well-deserved recognition. His contributions have significantly enhanced the availability of accurate and reliable information on Wikipedia.
Best Indigenous Language Contributor Award
Next, we honored the Best Indigenous Language Contributor Award, presented by Mary Munyoki, Technical Support Manager, Language and Product Localization, Wikimedia Foundation from Kenya where she used the opportunity to emphasize the need for more people to contribute to language projects on the Wikimedia projects in Nigeria. The award went to Gwanki, who has been a dedicated member of the Wikimedia ecosystem in Nigeria for over a decade, promoting the Hausa language and preserving indigenous languages.


Gwanki, the winner of the Best Indigenous Contributor award, has been a dedicated member of the Wikimedia ecosystem in Nigeria for a decade. He has focused on promoting the Hausa language, serving as the oldest editor of Hausa Wikipedia and encouraging the growth of indigenous languages. In 2024, Gwanki made nearly 4,000 edits, creating 905 articles and serving as an administrator of Hausa Wikipedia, earning him this well-deserved recognition for his commitment to preserving and promoting Hausa language and culture
Media Contributor of the Year Award
The energy in the room soared with the announcement of the Media Contributor of the Year Award, presented by Ceslause Ogbonnaya, Wikimedian-In-Residence for the AfroCreatives WikiProject. The award was won by Yemi Festus, a multifaceted creative professional who has made impactful contributions to Wikimedia projects through media.


Yemi Festus is a multifaceted creative professional – photographer, cinematographer, and writer – who has been an active contributor to the Wikimedia movement since January 2021. As co-founder of (guw.wikipedia.org), he has played a pivotal role in translating Wikipedia articles into Ogu language (Egun), earning it recognition as the 4th globally accepted indigenous language in Nigeria and 1st in the Republic of Benin. Yemi has led and participated in numerous Wikimedia photography contests, earning him a nomination for Media Contributor of the Year 2024 in Nigeria. His impressive achievements include winning 2nd place in Wiki Loves Africa 2023 by the Yoruba Wikimedia User Group and 1st place in WikiLoves Folklore 2024. As a member of the Programs Team at Wikimedia Nigeria, Yemi continues to drive impact and promote open knowledge.
Community Builder Award
The Community Builder Award, was presented by Dr. Mariam Olugbodi, a senior lecturer from the Kwara State University and staff advisor of the KWASU fan club. This year, the award was rightfully won by Dr. Ngozi Osuchukwu, a trailblazing Librarian and Information Scientist who has demonstrated exceptional leadership and dedication to building the Wikimedia Anambra Network


Dr. Ngozi Perpetua Osuchukwu, a trailblazing Librarian and Information Scientist with a Ph.D. in Library and Information Science. As the visionary President of Wikimedia Anambra Network, which she founded from scratch in 2022, she has demonstrated exceptional leadership and dedication, transforming the network into a vibrant and dynamic community. Under her guidance, the network has achieved remarkable milestones, implementing over 20 activities in just 12 months, with a third of them self-sponsored, showcasing her innovative approach and commitment to community-driven initiatives. Her outstanding leadership led the network to win the prestigious NWDCA 2023 Most Active Fanclub/Network award, surpassing other vibrant communities. Dr. Ngozi’s collaborative spirit has fostered inclusive partnerships with over 15 organizations, including Anambra State government agencies, further solidifying her network’s impact. Moreover, she has prioritized capacity building, ensuring regular training and facilitation to upgrade her members’ skills on Wikimedia, empowering them to become active contributors. Her tireless efforts, strategic thinking, and passion for community building make her an exemplary winner of this award, a true testament to her dedication and excellence.
A Musical Interlude
After this flurry of inspiring awards, guests were treated to a short break to relax and mingle, all while enjoying the magnificent orchestra that played classic themes and contemporary tunes, lifting spirits and encouraging camaraderie among attendees.






Shining Bright: The Torchbearer Award
Resuming the excitement, Felix Nartey, Senior Partnerships Manager, Sub-Saharan Africa, Wikimedia Foundation from Ghana took the stage to present the Torchbearer Award, Felix used the opportunity to emphasize the importance of showing comradeship through Wikimedia projects which is what this category represents. He then announced Tochi Precious, a visionary advocate for open knowledge and cultural preservation, leaving an indelible mark on the Wikimedia community.


Dr. Tobechukwu Precious Friday is a visionary advocate for open knowledge and cultural preservation, leaving an indelible mark on the Wikimedia community. As a cofounder of the Igbo Wikimedia Organization, she has spearheaded the creation of thousands of Wikipedia articles, bridging the knowledge gap and promoting Igbo culture globally. Through her collaborative work with Wikitongues and the Wikimedia Foundation, Tochi has been instrumental in language revitalization efforts, empowering marginalized communities to preserve their linguistic heritage. Her tireless dedication has fostered a welcoming and supportive environment for Wikimedians in Nigeria and beyond, building bridges between African and global knowledge communities. With her selfless commitment to promoting understanding and inclusivity, Dr. Tochi embodies the spirit of the Torch Bearer Award, making her a truly deserving winner.
Editor of the Year Award
The net category is the Editor of the Year Award, presented by none other than Muhib Shefiu, a long-standing editor and 2023 winner of this prestigious award. As he took the stage, he expressed his gratitude for the community’s unwavering support and stressed the importance of editing as he described it as an integral part of the work we do. The award was won by Mercyjamb123, an active editor focusing on Igbo Wikipedia.


As a newly graduated student from one of the prestigious universities in Anambra, where she earned a degree in Public Administration. Mercyjamb12323 has already made a significant impact in the Wikimedia community. Her remarkable journey as a Wikimedian began in April 2023, when she first started contributing to Wikipedia.
In just over a year, Mercyjamb123 has achieved an impressive milestone, creating over 1000 articles on the Igbo Wikipedia. Her dedication to promoting the Igbo language and culture is evident in her tireless efforts to develop high-quality content on the Igbo Wikipedia.
Special Recognition Award
We then transitioned to a heartwarming segment—the Special Recognition Award presented by Barakat Adegboye, which celebrates an editor who exemplifies outstanding commitment to the Monthly Outstanding Editors Recognition (MOER) program. This year, the accolade went to Levi Kambai, commended for his consistent contributions month after month. The honor was met with cheers from the audience, who recognized the significance of his contributions in making the campaign a success.
Best Active Network/Fan Club Award
Next was the much-anticipated Best Active Network/Fan Club Award presented by Ehi Enabulele Software Engineer at the Wikimedia Foundation. This category not only highlights the spirit of collaboration but also the power of community in driving forward the Wikimedia mission. After much enthusiasm, the Kaduna Network emerged victorious! This vibrant community has shown remarkable engagement and collaboration over the years. The president of the Kaduna Network took the stage to receive the award on behalf of the network.


Cultural Interlude
Following these electrifying awards, we shifted gears for a mesmerizing cultural performance by members of the Hausa community. Dressed in traditional attire, the performers took the stage, filling the space with captivating rhythms and vibrant dances that celebrated the rich tapestry of Nigeria’s cultural heritage, leaving everyone enchanted.



Lifetime Achievement Awards
As the night continued, we ventured into the non-voting category—the Lifetime Achievement Award. Presented by Olaniyan Olushola, the president of Wikimedia Nigeria, this award is a heartfelt tribute to individuals whose enduring contributions have left an indelible mark on the community and the country at large.
Wikimedian Category
Isaac Olatunde, a stalwart in the Wikimedia movement, received the Lifetime Achievement Award for Wikimedian for his exceptional commitment to promoting open knowledge, enhancing the quality of information available on the Wikinedia projects, and fostering community development in Nigeria and globally.. His heartfelt speech resonated deeply with the audience as he reflected on a decade of dedication, inspiring countless others to join the mission of knowledge-sharing.
Dr. Olatunde Isaac is recognized as a distinguished advocate for open knowledge in Nigeria, serving as a Wikimedia Community Manager and an expert in Health Law and Policy. He has dedicated over a decade to the Wikimedia movement, co-founding the Wikimedia Community in Nigeria in 2015. In 2020, he initiated the Wikipedia Pages Wanting Photos Campaign, a global endeavor that has enhanced over 400,000 Wikipedia articles with images across more than 70 countries, including Nigeria, Germany, and Canada.
Isaac’s leadership roles within the Wikimedia movement showcase his commitment and influence. He has served on multiple committees, including the Wikimedia Foundation’s Individual Engagement Grant Committee and the Project Grant Committee. In 2022, he contributed to the Leadership Development Working Group, further solidifying his role as a leader in the community.
His involvement extends to the Wiki Indaba Steering Committee, where he has held various leadership positions, including Co-Chair and Chair for multiple years and locations, showcasing his dedication to supporting the African Wikimedia community.
In recognition of his impactful contributions, Isaac was nominated as a Young Global Leader by the World Economic Forum in 2020. Additionally, he serves as an Associate Editor for the WikiJournal of Medicine and has published numerous articles in respected scholarly journals in Biochemistry, Food Science, and Health Law and Policy.







Non-Wikimedian Category
Sir Boniface Ebewo was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award for non-Wikimedian, recognized for his incredible efforts in supporting the open knowledge cause through various initiatives and for his exceptional dedication to promoting and advancing the creative landscape in Nigeria through innovative initiatives and impactful contributions. His trailblazing work exemplifies the spirit of creativity and innovation that the award seeks to honor. Sir Boniface passion and enthusiasm ignited the crowd’s spirit, reminding us all of the importance of collaboration in achieving greater goals.

Sir Boniface James Ebewo is a distinguished Nigerian broadcaster, educator, and creative entrepreneur, recognized for his significant contributions to the entertainment industry across the African continent. Born on January 31, 1970, in Ikot Udom, Akwa Ibom State, he has over two decades of experience pushing the boundaries of innovation, excellence, and creativity.
Academically accomplished, Boniface holds a Diploma in Theatre Arts, a Bachelor of Arts (Hons.), and a Master’s degree in Arts of the Stage and Media. Currently, he is a Ph.D. candidate specializing in Theatre Administration and Management at the University of Uyo, Nigeria. His professional journey includes leadership roles such as Chairman of Ika Local Government Council (2011-2012), broadcaster at Akwa Ibom Broadcasting Corporation (1993-2004), and Head of Information for the Akwa Ibom State Universal Basic Education Board (2004-2010).
As the founder and Creative Advisor of Real Brass Nigeria, Africa’s largest single brass orchestra, he has transformed the entertainment experience in Nigeria and beyond. His dedication to the creative industry has earned him numerous awards, including the Productivity Merit Award from the Akwa Ibom State Government in 2009, the Excellence Award in Creative Development Services from Ika Local Government Area in 2010, and the Entertainment Innovator Award from the Association of Professional Broadcasters in 2015.
Boniface Ebewo is a Knight of the Noble Order of Saint Mulumba, a trained broadcaster from the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria, an accomplished thespian, cultural ambassador, philanthropist, disciplinarian, and a devoted father of three.







Vote of thanks
The ceremony drew to a close with a heartfelt vote of thanks delivered by Omalayo Ogunsiji, the Executive Director of Wikimedia Nigeria Foundation. With sincere appreciation, she acknowledged the collective efforts of everyone involved in making the 2024 Nigeria Wikimedia Community Distinguished Awards a resounding success.
Omalayo expressed her deepest gratitude to the award winners, whose tireless contributions to the Wikimedia movement in Nigeria have left an indelible mark. She also thanked the nominees, whose dedication and commitment to the movement are equally valued and recognized.
Lastly Omalayo’s vote of thanks was a poignant reminder of the power of collaboration and community spirit. As she concluded her remarks, the audience erupted in applause, echoing their appreciation for the collective efforts that have propelled the Wikimedia movement in Nigeria forward.


Additionally, Rhoda James received a Special Recognition Award for her exceptional work in providing graphics and visual designs for various Wikimedia activities in Nigeria, acknowledging her invaluable contributions to the community.


A Night to Remember
As each winner was announced, the atmosphere buzzed with applause and enthusiasm. The night was a beautiful tapestry of storytelling, recognition, and inspiration, brought to life by the dedication of remarkable individuals. Their achievements will light the path for future generations of Wikimedians. The night transformed into a ceremony filled with music, delectable food, and vibrant networking. The sounds of laughter and joy resonated throughout the venue as attendees shared stories, exchanged ideas, and forged new connections—an essential part of the Wikimedia community’s spirit.
The Nigeria Wikimedia Community Distinguished Awards not only serve as a reminder of the importance of acknowledging our volunteers, but they also inspire us to continue the vital work of bridging the knowledge gap in Nigeria. Together, we flourish, striving to enrich the repository of knowledge that we freely share with the world.
Special thanks to all the award committee planning members which include Blessing Linason, Jesuloba, Dorcas, Barakat, Andikan, Jide, John Joy, Rhoda and all partivpants. Together, we will continue to shape a future where knowledge knows no boundaries.
We look forward to the continued growth of our community and can’t wait to see what the next year brings! Join us in applauding all the winners and nominees of the night!
Pictures from the ceremony here, you can also watch the video here
Ayokanmi Oyeyemi, Chair, Nigeria Wikimedia Community Distinguished Award Committee

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