By Onwa Ekor
The Organising Committee of The People First Enterprise Awards 2026 has released the official list of finalists competing for honours across 10 categories.
Themed “Empowering Dreams, Transforming Future,” the awards celebrate visionaries, innovators, local entrepreneurs and corporate bodies driving economic growth and community excellence in Cross River State.
Each category winner will receive a grand prize of ₦500,000.
The grand gala holds on November 29, 2026, at Hogis Royale, 6 Bishop Moynagh Avenue, State Housing Estate, Calabar. Red carpet begins at 6 p.m., main event at 7 p.m.
*OFFICIAL FINALISTS*
*Agriculture and Value Chain*
Uyimakpene’s Glamour, Obubra Garri, Obudu Farms, Fazenda Integrated, JV Farms Global Ltd, Anta Resort Farm, Ndi Farms, Agogrow Ventures, Dzukey’s Global Resources, Rudinrideni Enterprise
*Retail and Distribution*
Nanky’s Superstore, Kana City, Positives Retail Stores, Tailor’s Mart, Shakara by Lona, Nijo Luxury, Cee Edison Phones, Glowin Kiddies World, Vyee Wigs Tools, Maryice
*Fashion and Styling*
Skije Clothing, De Statesman Fashion & Styling, The Milliner Girl Enterprise, Enyique NG, House of Anipearl, Danelec FZE, Bukeh Fashion Niche, MB Fashion Academy, GP Styles and Kols, Sally Rojaz
*Technology and Innovation*
FXT Telecoms and AI, Factory Hub Tinapa, Cafe One, D’litehouse Hub, Techface Limited, Roynek Technologies, Hack 51 Africa, Guru Innovation Hub, Go Creative Digital Agency, CloudMart Service
*Transportation and Logistics*
Atam Ltd, Usetu Logistics, Caplog Deliveries, Kwikie, IK Logistics, Seaexpress, Abitto Logistics, GIG Logistics, Cargoburg Logistics, Shoreline Logistics
*Manufacturing and Production*
All in All Chemicals and Allied Production, GEES Footwears, Seekee’s Footwears, Ima’s Food Stuff, NERZ Marine Paints, Exclusive Parfait, Hauz Sips, Ekebe, SatFarms, Ethel Signature
*Education and Advocacy*
Nana Arts Initiative, Bloom Lane Lessons, Ademi Development Aid Initiative, Tell Your Story by Queen Esther, Walkathon by Healthy Billionaire Club, Impact in Leadership Foundation, Pearl Project, Pink Africa Foundation, My Business My Tomorrow by Speaking Nightingale, Advocacy Networks Limited
*Content Creation and Media*
Two Thumbs Creation, Inimfon Iwang, Calabar Blog, Kandy Umoh, Hawt Chocolate, Stormblast Media, Umpire Wave Studios, The Kartunes Studio, Tob’ids Expression, Calabargist
*Entertainment and Lifestyle*
Romaan Lounge, Tipsy Mistress, Jossy Entertainment, See You Outside, Lucas Modeling House, Unleashed Concert, Aqua Nova Fest, CEC by Hit FM, Mayfair Lounge, Vogue Lounge
*Tourism and Hospitality*
Signature by Delux, Ascott Center, Gemba Resorts, Obudu Centurion Hotel & Resort, Palladium by Gerald, Hara Grills, Ekebe, The Roots, International Conference Centre Hotel (ICC), Oceanwinds Hotel and Apartment
The awards are organised in partnership with the Cross River government, the Cross River Microfinance and Enterprise Development Agency (MEDA) and the Leaders Den Foundation.
Public voting details will be announced shortly on official communication channels.
