By Ayomide Otitoju
APO Group, a leading pan-African communications consultancy and press release distribution service, has congratulated its clients and partners named on New African magazine’s 2025 “100 Most Influential Africans” list.
Among those recognised are Afreximbank, the African Development Bank (AfDB), Africa Finance Corporation, the Roman Catholic Church in Africa, the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC), the African Energy Chamber, the Merck Foundation, and the UN Global Compact, alongside other individuals and institutions acknowledged for their leadership and contribution to Africa’s development.
The annual New African list is regarded as a key benchmark of influence on the continent, spotlighting individuals and organisations whose work has significantly advanced Africa’s economic growth, social development, and global standing.
APO Group said the recognition reflects the leadership, innovation, and resilience of its clients and partners across sectors including finance, energy, healthcare, public health, faith-based leadership, and international cooperation.
In the finance and development sector, Dr. George Elombi, President and Chairman of Afreximbank, and Prof. Benedict Oramah, whose decade-long tenure ended in October 2025, were recognised for their roles in strengthening intra-African trade and economic resilience. Dr. Sidi Ould Tah, President of the African Development Bank, was honoured for advancing inclusive and sustainable growth, while Samaila Zubairu, President and Chief Executive Officer of Africa Finance Corporation, was acknowledged for his contributions to infrastructure development and economic transformation.
In business and energy, NJ Ayuk, Executive Chairman of the African Energy Chamber, was recognised for championing Africa-led energy solutions, while Dr. Rasha Kelej, Chief Executive Officer of the Merck Foundation, was honoured for her leadership in expanding healthcare access, education, and medical capacity building across Africa.
Faith-based leadership was also highlighted, with the Roman Catholic Church in Africa, under Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo Besungu, recognised for its longstanding contributions to education, healthcare delivery, peacebuilding, and community development.
In public health, Dr. Jean Kaseya, Director General and Chief Executive Officer of Africa CDC, was honoured for strengthening Africa’s health security framework, improving epidemic preparedness, and coordinating continental responses to public health emergencies.
Sanda Ojiambo, Assistant Secretary-General of the United Nations and Chief Executive Officer of the UN Global Compact, was recognised in the international cooperation category for promoting sustainable development, responsible business practices, and partnerships aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
Commenting on the recognition, Founder and Chairman of APO Group, Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard—who was named among New African’s 100 Most Influential Africans in both 2024 and 2025—said the group was proud to support leaders and organisations driving meaningful change across the continent.
“APO Group is honoured to serve as a communications partner to organisations and leaders whose impact is shaping Africa’s future, ensuring their voices are heard and their contributions recognised globally,” he said.
