BudgIT has announced the opening of nominations for the 2026 Active Citizens Awards, with the organisers set to honour Nigerians driving impact through advocacy, innovation, civic engagement, and community development.
The civic technology organisation disclosed this in a statement issued on Thursday, May 14, 2026, ahead of the third edition of the awards scheduled to hold on July 24, 2026, at the Civic Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos.
According to BudgIT, the 2026 edition is themed “Celebrating Voices, Inspiring Actions” and will spotlight individuals and organisations using technology, creativity, public service, research, and grassroots mobilisation to strengthen accountability, inclusion, and democratic participation in Nigeria.
The organisation said the awards are designed to recognise changemakers whose work continues to inspire civic participation and collective action across communities.
Speaking on the initiative, BudgIT Country Director, Vahyala Kwaga, said the awards celebrate everyday Nigerians and organisations showing leadership and commitment to building stronger communities.
“The Active Citizens Awards is about recognizing the everyday people and organisations who continue to show courage, leadership, and commitment to building stronger communities and a more accountable society,” Kwaga said.
“Across Nigeria, we are witnessing young people, civic actors, creatives, and innovators shaping the future of democracy and citizen participation, often against difficult odds. This award is an opportunity to celebrate their impact and amplify their work.”
Chair of the Selection Committee, Joseph Amenaghawon, said the nomination and selection process would prioritise credibility, measurable impact, innovation, sustainability, diversity, and community relevance.
“We are committed to a transparent and rigorous selection process that highlights individuals and organisations creating meaningful change in their communities,” he said.
The organisers said the 2026 awards will feature 12 categories, with seven categories open for public nomination, while winners in the remaining five categories will be selected directly by the awards committee after internal review and research.
BudgIT noted that nominations are open to activists, civic leaders, community organisers, social entrepreneurs, artists, media practitioners, youth-led initiatives, nonprofit organisations, and innovators making measurable contributions within their sectors and communities.
According to the organisers, all nominations must include links to completed projects or measurable impacts that align with the evaluation criteria.
The organisers also confirmed that self-nominations will be accepted alongside nominations submitted by members of the public.
A three-stage review process will be conducted by a panel of judges, after which three finalists will emerge in each category before winners are selected.
Nominations officially opened on May 14, 2026, and will close on June 14, 2026.
BudgIT advised interested nominees and members of the public to visit awards.civichive.org for nomination guidelines, award categories, sponsorship opportunities, and submission procedures.
The organisation also said enquiries can be sent through awards@budgit.org.
