The Nigerian Creative Excellence Awards (NICE Awards), formerly known as the Comic Panel Awards, have officially announced the winners of their latest edition through a virtual ceremony, marking another milestone in the evolving recognition of Nigeria’s comic and visual storytelling ecosystem.

The awards, which began as the Comic Panel Awards with a primary focus on sequential art and comic panels, have since expanded in scope and outlook. The transition to the NICE Awards reflects a deliberate effort to broaden the conversation around creative excellence while maintaining comics as a central pillar of the platform. This year’s virtual announcement underscored both the adaptability of the organisers and the increasingly digital nature of creative communities in Nigeria.

Among the standout recipients was Chima Kalu, who emerged as Comic Artist of the Year for his work on Blood Wars. The title itself also received the Cultural Comic of the Year award, reinforcing its standing as a project that successfully blends dynamic visual storytelling with culturally resonant themes. Celestial Eyes was named Comic Book of the Year, a recognition that further affirms its growing reputation as one of the most prominent Nigerian comic titles in recent years.

In the technical categories, Akinyele Victor was honoured as Colorist of the Year for Might of Guardian Prime, highlighting the critical role of colour and visual mood in contemporary comic storytelling. Symphonii Studios was awarded Comic Studio of the Year, a nod to the increasing importance of organised creative teams and sustainable production structures within the industry.

The awards also shone a light on emerging and community-facing contributions. Zadok Comics received the Neophyte Award, recognising the studio’s promising entry into the Nigerian comic space and its potential for long-term impact. Godwin Jackson was named Creative Influencer of the Year, acknowledging his role in amplifying creative conversations, supporting emerging talent, and expanding the visibility of Nigerian comics across digital platforms.

Other winners announced during the virtual ceremony include Hero Corps, which won Best Animated Short over internationally acclaimed Hadu; Murewa Ayodele, named Writer of the Year for his work on Akogun: Brutalizer of Gods; and Mr Morak Oguntade, who received a Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of his enduring contribution to the comics industry.

Beyond the accolades, the NICE awards serve as a growing archive of progress for an industry still defining its structures, audiences, and economic pathways within Nigeria’s wider creative economy.

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