The Delta Role Model Awards (DREAMS), the longest-standing and most prestigious awards platform in Delta State and the South-South region, will mark its 21st anniversary with the 2026 edition scheduled for Thursday, April 16, 2026, at the KFT Event Centre, Warri.
The event will feature a red-carpet reception commencing at 4:00 pm prompt.
Established in 2005 by Don2Dammy Productions in collaboration with The African Child Foundation International and with the support of the Delta State Government, DREAMS has grown into a legacy institution dedicated to promoting excellence, integrity, innovation, and service to humanity.
Over the past two decades, the awards have consistently celebrated individuals and institutions whose leadership, creativity, and humanitarian contributions have driven development within Delta State and beyond.
The 2026 ceremony, themed around excellence, leadership, and service, will spotlight achievers across industrial enterprise, leadership excellence, business innovation, and community development, reinforcing the awards’ tradition of recognising impact-driven accomplishments in both the public and private sectors.
Over the years, the Delta Role Model Awards has honoured a distinguished list of eminent Deltans and national figures, including Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori; former Governor Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan; Minister and human rights advocate, Festus Keyamo, SAN; Zenith Bank founder, Jim Ovia; Deputy Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Arthur Akpowowo; Chairman of Heirs Holdings and United Bank for Africa, Dr. Tony Elumelu, CFR; industrialist and philanthropist, Olorogun Kenneth Gbagi, OFR; Dame Edith Okowa; maritime leader High Chief Kestin Pondi; Senator Chief Ede Dafinone; businessman and cultural ambassador, Chief Ayiri Emami; former Bank of Industry Managing Director, Ms. Evelyn Oputu; media mogul Prince Nduka Obaigbena; late education icon Prof. Grace Alele-Williams; and philanthropist Mr. Sholaye Jeremi, among others.
Speaking ahead of the event, Founder and Convener of DREAMS, Olorogun Dr. Donaldson Onosakponome, described the 2026 edition as “a night of reflection, recognition, and renewal, celebrating those who embody true Delta resilience, vision, and excellence.”
He noted that the awards remain committed to inspiring younger generations by showcasing role models whose achievements reflect hard work, integrity, and service to society.
Dr. Onosakponome also announced that nominations for DREAMS 2026 are currently open and will close on March 20, 2026.
Members of the public are encouraged to nominate deserving individuals, organizations, and institutions that have made notable contributions to leadership, entrepreneurship, and community development.
For sponsorship, partnership, and enquiries, interested parties can contact 0802 722 2274 or 0803 356 4409. Updates on the event are available via @DeltaRoleModelAwards across all social media platforms.
With its rich legacy and growing influence, DREAMS 2026 promises to once again celebrate heroes and inspire generations, reaffirming its place as a cornerstone of excellence recognition in Delta State for 21 remarkable years.
