Big Five Board Awards 2025

29th Edition of the Longest-Running African Focused Energy Awards

The Big Five Board Awards, the longest-running in Africa’s oil and gas sector, celebrate outstanding leaders each year. Recognise excellence - submit your nomination today!

BRAND NEW AWARDS VENUE FOR 2025!

BRAND NEW AWARDS VENUE FOR 2025!

Mark your calendar - The Big Five Board Awards Ceremony takes place on the evening of 15th May 2025!

Stunning New Venue: Experience our Big Five Awards at an exciting, iconic location.

Breathtaking Panoramic Views: Enjoy unparalleled views of London’s skyline.

Elegant Drinks Reception: Indulge in a fabulous evening of networking and hospitality.

Revamped Awards Format: Celebrate African excellence with an innovative new approach.

Bigger and Better Than Ever: Expanded opportunities and enhanced experiences.

Big Five Board
Awards 2025 Categories

ELEPHANT AWARD

Distinguished Individual Contribution to the African Energy Industry

Honouring an individual whose vision, leadership, and dedication have left an indelible mark on Africa’s oil and gas industry, the Elephant Award recognizes unparalleled contributions that have shaped the sector’s growth and sustainability. 

LION AWARD

Distinguished Corporate Contribution to the African Energy Industry

Celebrating organisations that exemplify excellence and innovation in African petroleum, the Lion Award highlights companies whose strategic initiatives and impact continue to propel the continent’s oil and gas industry to new heights. 

LEOPARD AWARD

Africa’s Independent Player of the Year

The Leopard Award applauds independent players who have demonstrated agility, resilience, and exceptional performance in exploring, producing, or investing in Africa’s diverse energy landscape. 

RHINO AWARD

Africa’s NOC/Regulator of the Year

Recognising outstanding achievement in driving national energy goals and fostering development, the Rhino Award honours the African National Oil Company or Regulator that has demonstrated leadership, innovation, and commitment to Africa’s oil & gas. 

BUFFALO AWARD

Africa’s Service & Supply Company of the Year

The Buffalo Award acknowledges service and supply companies that have consistently delivered excellence, reliability, and groundbreaking solutions to support Africa’s oil and gas operations. 

AFRICA’S LEGEND AWARD

Special Category

Reserved for an icon whose enduring legacy has shaped Africa’s energy industry, Africa’s Legend Award celebrates those whose achievements and transformative influence continue to inspire and impress the industry 

Nominations Now Open!

Celebrating the very best individual and corporate contributions to the continent’s energy sector, nominations for the 29th Big Five Board Awards are now open!

Big Five Awards Timeline

Nominations Open: 3rd February 2025
Nominations Close: 4th April 2025
Top 50 Big Five Leaders Announcement: 9th April 2025
Peer Voting: 13th - 15th May 2025
Awards Ceremony: 4:00 PM until Late, 15th May 2025

2024 Big Five Board Award Winners…
Join the ranks of excellence in Africa’s Energy Sector

  • Fatoumata Sanogo, Chief Executive Officer, PETROCI, Côte d'Ivoire

  • Eni

  • Impact Oil & Gas

  • NAMCOR Namibia

  • TGS

  • His Excellency Tom Alweendo, the Minister of Mines and Energy of Namibia

Fatoumata Sanogo, Chief Executive Officer, PETROCI, Côte d'Ivoire - Winner, ELEPHANT AWARD Distinguished Individual Contribution to the African Energy Industry

Big Five Board Awards 2025 Sponsorship Opportunities

Discover the opportunities available with the 2025 Big Five Board Awards, and request a copy of the sponsorship prospectus for 2025 to see how your company can get involved.

Big Five Board Awards
Photo Gallery - 1996 to 2025