Okunjeni PraiseGod has emerged overall winner of the inaugural Getlit Africa Art in Words Challenge held at Mart Park, Ogba, Lagos at 4:00pm on the 7th of December 2025.
Deborah Usak (Second Place), Anita Nwokoji (Third Place) and Mercy Oladele (People’Choice).
Beyond celebrating winners of the inaugural Getlit Africa Art In Words Challenge, the evening doubled as Getlit Africa’s formal entry into the creative space market — a bold and yet, simple introduction that blended warmth, elegance, and genuine community spirit.
Hosted by the event Master of Ceremonies, Princewill Mac, the programme opened with a collective recitation of the Nigerian National Anthem, drawing everyone into a moment of unity before the speeches began.
The first address was delivered by Mr. Michael Ojediran, the grant manager of Getlit Africa, who welcomed attendees and reaffirmed Getlit Africa’s commitment to bridging the gap between African creatives and meaningful opportunities. His message was followed by an insightful introduction to the organisation by Mrs. Tolu Ajayi, the General Manager of Getlit Africa, who walked the audience through the mission, vision, and growing impact of Getlit Africa across different African countries.
Mr. Olawale Oluwadahunsi, Founder and Creative Director of Getlit Africa, who was actively present at the venue virtually also took the big screen to highlight the purpose behind the competition and the ongoing need to empower African storytellers and creatives. A goodwill message was presented from the Lagos State Ministry of Youth and Social Development, further affirming the cultural relevance of the event to the Nigerian youths.
The audience was then introduced to the esteemed judging panel: Charles Inojie, award-winning Nollywood actor, filmmaker, director; Obii Ifejika – internationally acclaimed performance poet, filmmaker and designer and Iyanu Adebiyi, another award-winning writer, poet, and spoken word artist.
Major highlights of the events include the prize-giving segment as well as the presentation of a short recap of videos of all the participants’ submissions, which were played to remind the audience of the brilliant stories crafted during the competition. Mr. Isaac Idowu, Chair of Getlit Africa’s Board of Trustees, was invited to grace the event by announcing the winners of the competition. He delivered a closing note congratulating the contestants and encouraging them to continue nurturing their craft.
The evening was rounded off with a closing speech by Mr. Tobi Abiodun, award-winning poet, who delivered a heartfelt message to creatives in attendance; to keep creating boldly, and to remain committed to growth.
In her vote of thanks, Oluwaferanmi Durojaiye, an editor and literary journalist with Getlit Africa said:
“The award soirée didn’t just honour winners — it signalled the beginning of something great — a platform ready to lead Africa’s creative opportunity ecosystem. With this first of its kind event, Getlit Africa sealed its place as Africa’s No.1 Creative Opportunities Platform, leaving every attendee inspired and hopeful for what comes next.”
