Call for Nominations Opens for BudgIT “Active Citizens Awards 2026”

BudgIT, Nigeria's leading civic-tech organization championing accountability and transparency in public service delivery, has rolled out plans for the third Active Citizens Awards. This begins with the opening of the call for nominations on May 14, 2026, which closes on June 14, 2026. The 2026 awards nominations are in twelve categories, out of which seven categories are open for public nominations, while the remaining five categories will be selected by the awards committee after extensive research and thoughtful deliberation against specific criteria.  Nominations are open to activists, civic leaders, community organizers, social entrepreneurs, artists, media practitioners, youth-led initiatives, nonprofit organizations, and innovators making measurable contributions within their communities and sectors. Members of the public are encouraged to submit nominations for deserving individuals and organizations through the official nomination platform, available online via: https://awards.civichive.org or via email at awards@budgit.org. Self-nominations will also be accepted. In a statement, BudgIT said the “Active Citizens Awards” seeks to spotlight citizens and groups whose work continues to inspire participation, accountability, inclusion, and collective action within society. “It celebrates changemakers who are using advocacy, technology, community organizing, creativity, research, and public service to drive positive social impact and strengthen democratic values.” According to the statement by the Chair of the 2026 ACA Planning Committee, TEMIDAYO MUSA, the organisers said the assessment of shortlisted nominees and the final selection of winners of the Active Citizens Awards would be based on specific criteria, comprising innovation, impact, milestones, sustainability, diversity, inclusion, organizational structure, and leadership quality. The statement noted that all nominations must include links to relevant projects or impacts the nominee has successfully completed within the designated timeframe, as these links should directly support their alignment with the evaluation criteria. The nominees will also pass through a carefully chosen Panel of Judges for a thorough, three-stage review process following the nomination period. “This selection process will result in a final shortlist of three individuals who have achieved the highest-grade points in each category. Ultimately, only one of these three nominees will be selected as the winner in their respective category.” The statement quoted BudgIT’s Country Director, VAHYALA KWAGA, saying that the Active Citizens Awards is about recognizing everyday people and organizations who continue to show courage, leadership, and commitment to building stronger communities and a more accountable society. “Across Nigeria, we are witnessing young people, civic actors, creatives, and innovators shaping the future of democracy and citizen participation, often against difficult odds.”  Also speaking at a news conference, held at Civic-Hive office in Yaba, Lagos, the Chairman of the Selection Committee of the Active Citizens Awards, JOSEPH AMENAGHAWON, noted that the awards process will prioritize credibility, impact, innovation, and community relevance when assessing nominees. “We are committed to a transparent and rigorous selection process that highlights individuals and organizations creating meaningful change in their communities. This award is designed not only to celebrate achievements but also to elevate stories of active citizenship; stories that can inspire broader civic participation across the continent.”  Furthermore, shortlisted nominees and award recipients will be announced ahead of the official Active Citizens Awards ceremony scheduled to hold on Friday, July 24, 2026, at the Civic Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos.