Richmond, London, will become the meeting point of Nigeria’s sporting elite and influential leaders on September 3 as the Nigerian Universal Keystone Sports Awards (NUKSA) stages its second edition, promising a spectacular celebration of excellence, achievement and the enduring bond between Nigeria and the United Kingdom.
The prestigious ceremony, scheduled for the historic Ham Polo Club, is expected to attract an impressive mix of sporting legends, senior government officials, diplomats, business executives and international stakeholders in what organisers describe as a landmark event celebrating individuals and institutions that have transformed sports and inspired generations.
Having earned widespread acclaim in its maiden edition, NUKSA has rapidly evolved into one of the most prominent platforms recognising Nigerian excellence beyond the country’s borders, using sports as a bridge for diplomacy, investment, youth development and cultural exchange.
This year’s event will feature an array of distinguished guests, including Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri; the First Lady of Kwara State, Professor Olufolake AbdulRazaq; the Minister of Interior, Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo; as well as leading figures from the sporting, corporate and diplomatic communities in both Nigeria and the United Kingdom.
Founder of NUKSA, David Doherty, said the awards were conceived to celebrate men and women whose outstanding contributions have elevated the profile of Nigeria and the UK through sporting excellence, leadership and enterprise.
“Our objective is to honour those who have made extraordinary contributions to sports and society. Their achievements have brought pride, joy and global recognition to Nigeria and the United Kingdom, and they deserve to be celebrated in a manner befitting their impact,” Doherty said.
Director of Media and member of the organising committee, Gabriel Olu Omoogun, said preparations had entered the final phase, expressing confidence that the 2026 edition would surpass the high standards set by the inaugural ceremony.
“We are determined to deliver our most memorable edition yet. Every detail has been carefully planned to provide an unforgettable experience for our guests while celebrating the very best of Nigerian and British sporting excellence,” he said.
Awards will be presented in several prestigious categories, including Male Athlete of the Year, Female Athlete of the Year, Breakout Star of the Year, Naija Spirit Award and the Women in Sports Initiative Award, recognising exceptional performances and contributions to sports development.
Beyond honouring sporting achievements, NUKSA has become a powerful platform for promoting sports diplomacy, encouraging investment in youth development and strengthening bilateral relations between Nigeria and the United Kingdom through the universal language of sport.
With anticipation building ahead of the September 3 ceremony, all eyes will be on Richmond as some of Nigeria’s most accomplished sports personalities and distinguished leaders gather for an evening dedicated to celebrating excellence, inspiring future champions and showcasing Nigeria’s growing influence on the global sporting stage.
