DEAR 2026 Gala Celebrates Leadership, Excellence and Service in Night to Remember

Lagos played host to an unforgettable evening of inspiration, elegance, and celebration as leaders, professionals, entrepreneurs, and communication enthusiasts gathered for the Division Excellence Awards and Recognition (DEAR) 2026 Gala, the flagship awards event of Division D, Toastmasters International, District 130.

Designed to honour outstanding achievements in leadership, communication, mentorship, and service, DEAR 2026 brought together members and distinguished guests for a celebration that reflected the very essence of Toastmasters—personal growth, excellence, and community impact.

The evening opened on a vibrant note with a captivating performance by the University of Lagos Cultural Troupe, followed by the entertaining Crucible Challenge, a humorous display of wit and creativity that delighted guests. Goodwill messages from representatives of the Lagos State Government and the Office of the First Lady of Lagos State further underscored the importance of leadership development and effective communication in nation-building.

The awards segment recognised exceptional individuals and clubs whose contributions stood out during the Toastmasters year. Nameti Akpan of Uyo Premier Speakers Club received the Mentor of the Year award, while Fiyin Toyo was named Toastmaster of the Year after earning the distinction of Toastmaster of the Month five times. Surulere Toastmasters Club won Most Innovative Club, and Eagle Toastmasters Club was honoured as Club of the Year.

A defining highlight of the evening was the presentation of an Honorary Membership Award to Ghassan Faddoul, Managing Director of Eko Hotels and Suites, in recognition of his support for leadership development. Eko Hotels proudly hosts four thriving Toastmasters clubs—Eagle, Elite Eagle, Victoria Bay, and Seaside Toastmasters Clubs—making it a significant hub for personal and professional growth.

The event also marked a memorable leadership transition as outgoing Division Director and Project Sponsor, Abubakar Gimba, delivered heartfelt closing remarks before formally welcoming Ibinabo Oyinbo as the incoming Division Director.

The success of DEAR 2026 was driven by a dedicated organising committee led by Committee Chair and Project Lead Kelvin Uveki, alongside Salihu Zakari (Deputy Committee Chair), Fiyin Toyo (Pre-Engagement Chair/Deputy Chair), Olusola Olakanmi (Finance & Sponsorship Chair), Unekwu Nwaezeapu (Venue & Experience Chair), Adebowale Adetunji (Guest Management &

Hospitality Chair), and Imoleayo Adeleye (Branding & PR Chair). Their collective leadership, supported by volunteers and valued partners including BrandEye Media, Beiersdorf (Nivea), Source Microfinance Bank, Degreez Global Resources Ltd, Kakulus Capital, Britson and Partners, Peak, Indomie, Chi Limited, and the Ministry of Information, delivered an evening worthy of its name.

As the celebration concluded with an energetic after-party hosted by DJ Josh, one message resonated throughout the room: leadership is best measured not by titles, but by the lives transformed through service. DEAR 2026 was more than an awards gala—it was a celebration of excellence in action and a powerful reminder that the future belongs to those committed to growing themselves while inspiring others.