By Boris Esono Nwenfor
Premier Invest, the Abu Dhabi–based financial group shaping new pathways between global capital and African economic transformation, took center stage recently as a sponsor and active participant at the Best of Africa (BoA) Awards 2025 in London.
Held on October 26, the ceremony celebrated the philanthropic achievements and global influence of leaders of Pan-African heritage in sports, entertainment, and business. This year’s theme — “Innovation” — spotlighted individuals and institutions redefining African leadership, impact, and creativity.
A Strategic Presence Rooted in African Growth
Premier Invest’s attendance and sponsorship reflected a dual mission:
1. Celebrating Pan-African excellence and visionary leadership
The group joined global stakeholders to honour individuals whose work is driving Africa’s development through creativity, service, and strategic leadership.
2. Introducing The Africa Sports Infrastructure Fund
Premier Invest used the global platform to engage athletes, philanthropists, and industry leaders around its upcoming Africa Sports Infrastructure Fund — an investment initiative aimed at financing modern sports facilities, boosting talent development, strengthening capacity building, and expanding the business and media ecosystem of sports across the continent.
The initiative speaks to Premier Invest’s belief that sports are not only cultural pillars but also dynamic economic sectors capable of creating jobs, stimulating local economies, and nurturing future champions.
A Powerful Moment: Angélique Kidjo Honoured with Lifetime Achievement Award
The emotional high point of the night came when René Awambeng, Founder and Managing Partner of Premier Invest, presented the Lifetime Achievement Award to the legendary Angélique Kidjo — five-time Grammy winner, global cultural icon, UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador, and founder of the Batonga Foundation.
In a heartfelt tribute, Awambeng praised Kidjo’s decades-long legacy:
“Angélique Kidjo’s voice has carried Africa to the world—not only through her music, but through her relentless advocacy for young women, equality, and education. She embodies the spirit of the Best of Africa Awards: the power to inspire, to unite, and to uplift.”
He added:
“At Premier Invest, we believe Africa’s progress is multidimensional. It is financial, creative, and human. Supporting platforms like Best of Africa reflects our belief in investing in every expression of excellence across our continent.”
Kidjo accepted the honour with gratitude and passion, noting that recognition rooted in community work and philanthropy strengthens her commitment to youth, girls’ education, and artistic freedom across Africa.
A Night Aligned with Premier Invest’s Broader Vision
From sports luminaries to creative trailblazers, the BoA Awards featured stories of resilience, innovation, and impact — values that echo Premier Invest’s mission across its operations in banking, investment, and sustainable development.
The company’s sponsorship and active participation reaffirmed its commitment to championing Africa’s growth beyond traditional finance — by uplifting individuals and institutions advancing the continent’s cultural, social, and economic potential.
Awambeng underscored the company’s philosophy:
“Our role as investors extends far beyond balance sheets. True investment means empowering people — the innovators, artists, and leaders who represent the very best of Africa.”
About Premier Invest
Premier Investment Holding Limited (PIHL) is a financial services holding company headquartered in Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM). Through its subsidiaries — Premier Bank Limited (under incorporation & regulatory approval), Premier Investment Partners Limited, and Premier Trading Services FZCO — the group provides integrated solutions across banking, investment, and trading.
Its mission is to unlock access to sustainable global capital for governments, state-owned enterprises, financial institutions, corporates, and development organisations. PIHL’s sectoral strengths span trade finance, enabling infrastructure, energy security, food security, and key commodities. The company serves Africa, the Caribbean, and the broader South-South corridor, guided by principles of integrity, innovation, and governance.
