Warri, Delta State – The Delta Role Model Awards (DREAMS), widely regarded as the longest-running and most prestigious awards platform in Delta State and the entire South-South geopolitical zone, will mark its historic 21st anniversary with a grand ceremony scheduled for Thursday, April 16, 2026, at the prestigious KFT Event Centre in Warri.
The event, which has become a landmark occasion on the state’s social and cultural calendar, will kick off with a glamorous red-carpet reception starting promptly at 4:00 p.m., followed by the main awards presentation.
Founded in 2005 by Don2Dammy Productions in partnership with The African Child Foundation International and with consistent backing from successive Delta State governments, DREAMS has evolved into a respected institution dedicated to recognising and promoting excellence, integrity, innovation, and selfless service to humanity. Over the past two decades, the platform has consistently spotlighted individuals and organisations whose outstanding contributions have advanced development, inspired communities, and elevated the image of Delta State both within Nigeria and beyond.
The 2026 edition, themed around Excellence, Leadership, and Service, will continue this tradition by honouring trailblazers in diverse fields such as industrial enterprise, business innovation, public leadership, entrepreneurship, and community development. The awards seek to celebrate impact-driven achievements across both the public and private sectors, reinforcing the values of hard work, ethical conduct, and collective progress.
- Over the years, DREAMS has honoured an impressive array of distinguished Deltans and prominent Nigerians, including:
- Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, Governor of Delta State
- Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan, former Governor of Delta State
- Festus Keyamo, SAN, Minister and renowned human rights advocate
- Jim Ovia, founder of Zenith Bank
- Rt. Hon. Arthur Akpowowo, Deputy Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly
- Dr. Tony Elumelu, CFR, Chairman of Heirs Holdings and United Bank for Africa
- Olorogun Kenneth Gbagi, OFR, industrialist and philanthropist
- Dame Edith Okowa
- High Chief Kestin Pondi, maritime sector leader
- Senator Chief Ede Dafinone
- Chief Ayiri Emami, businessman and cultural ambassador
- Ms. Evelyn Oputu, former Managing Director of the Bank of Industry
- Prince Nduka Obaigbena, media mogul and publisher of ThisDay
- The late Prof. Grace Alele-Williams, renowned educationist
- Mr. Sholaye Jeremi, philanthropist
and many others whose legacies continue to inspire generations.
Speaking ahead of the 2026 ceremony, the Founder and Convener of DREAMS, Olorogun Dr. Donaldson Onosakponome, described the milestone edition as “a night of reflection, recognition, and renewal.” He emphasized that the event would celebrate individuals and institutions that embody the true spirit of Delta resilience, visionary leadership, and unwavering excellence.
“DREAMS remains committed to inspiring the younger generation by showcasing role models whose achievements are rooted in hard work, integrity, and genuine service to society,” Dr. Onosakponome said. “After 21 remarkable years, we are proud to continue serving as a beacon of recognition for those who lift others and drive meaningful change in our communities and beyond.”
He also announced that nominations for the DREAMS 2026 awards are now officially open and will close on Thursday, March 20, 2026. Members of the public, organisations, and community groups are encouraged to submit nominations for deserving individuals and entities that have made outstanding contributions in leadership, entrepreneurship, innovation, humanitarian service, and community development.
Nominations should highlight verifiable achievements and impact, reflecting the core values that DREAMS has championed since its inception.
For sponsorship opportunities, partnership enquiries, or further information, interested individuals and corporate organisations can contact the event organisers on 0802 722 2274 or 0803 356 4409. Regular updates, including the full list of award categories, nomination guidelines, and event details, will be shared via the official handle @DeltaRoleModelAwards across all major social media platforms.
As DREAMS enters its third decade, the platform continues to hold a unique place in Delta State’s socio-cultural landscape. By consistently recognising unsung heroes, corporate leaders, public servants, and community builders, the awards have helped shape narratives of possibility, pride, and progress.
The 2026 edition promises to be a fitting celebration of 21 years of excellence recognition, bringing together stakeholders from government, business, civil society, and the creative sector to honour outstanding achievers and inspire the next generation of leaders.
With its enduring legacy of integrity, transparency, and impact, DREAMS 2026 reaffirms its role as a cornerstone institution that continues to elevate Delta State’s finest ambassadors and reinforce the values of service and excellence that define the state’s identity.
