Nigeria has secured a major victory on the continental stage, claiming four out of the top ten spots in the African category of the Global Alliance #NextInLine Changemakers 2025 competition.
The results were officially unveiled by the Global Alliance for Public Relations and Communication Management (GA) during its final “Hero Web Conference” on December 5. The competition, a flagship initiative of the Student and Young Practitioners Month (SYPM), challenged the world’s brightest young minds to explore the intersection of technology and ethics.
The Challenge: AI with a Human Touch
This year’s global essay-writing contest centered on a pivotal theme: “How Can AI-Driven Communication Transform the World? From Information to Impact: Reimagining the Future of Ethical, Purpose-Driven Communication.”
Participants were tasked with analyzing how Artificial Intelligence can be harnessed to advance human-centered communication without sacrificing empathy or accountability.
Ana Pista, Chair of the SYPM 2025, expressed her admiration for the caliber of entries. “We were truly blown away by their ideas as well as their passion for communication,” Pista stated, noting that the winners demonstrated a sophisticated understanding of how innovation must be balanced with ethical responsibility.
Regional Breakdown: Nigeria and Cameroon Lead Africa
While the Asia-Pacific region saw a heavy concentration of winners from the Philippines and Indonesia, the African leaderboard was dominated by West African talent.
The Nigerian Changemakers recognized are:
- Aromaradu Salahudeen Salihu
- Azeez Sulaiman
- Ikwuorgu Favour Eloho
- Ogunsemowo Moyinoluwa Elizabeth
Cameroon followed closely with four winners, while South Africa and Zambia each secured one spot on the prestigious list.
A Global Movement for Ethical Tech
The #NextInLine initiative aims to cultivate a new generation of leaders who can navigate a rapidly evolving digital landscape. According to the Global Alliance, this year’s essays reflected a “growing awareness” that while AI is a powerful tool for information flow, it must serve to amplify—rather than replace—fundamental human values and public trust.
The recognition of these young practitioners marks a significant milestone for the Nigerian communications industry, signaling that the country’s emerging professionals are at the forefront of global conversations regarding the future of ethical AI.