How judging works. Every category is judged by an independent panel using the criteria below. Public voting carries weight in specific categories but does not determine winners alone — the panel's scores and public votes are combined.
All nominees must be CAC registered, operating in Kwara State for at least 1 year, and meet the criteria below. Nominees may be asked to provide documentation as part of verification.
Eligibility: Hotels, guest houses, and motels operating in Kwara State for at least 1 year with valid CAC registration.
- Best Luxury Hotel: Exceptional interior design, premium amenities (spa, pool, gym), 24/7 room service, high-end dining, and a strong online reputation.
- Best Green Hotel: Documented sustainable practices — solar energy, water recycling, waste reduction — and community environmental programs. Documentation required.
- Best Business Hotel: High-speed Wi-Fi, conference/meeting rooms, business centre services, and quiet, work-friendly environments.
- Best Design Hotel: Unique, visually striking architecture and interior design that blends modern style with local cultural elements.
- Best Historical Hotel: Historical significance, preservation of original architecture, and educational storytelling about the property's past. Documentation required.
- Best Innovative Hotel: Use of cutting-edge technology (smart rooms, digital concierge), unique guest experiences, or creative operational solutions.
- Best Hotel GM: An individual General Manager demonstrating outstanding leadership, guest satisfaction scores, and staff development.
- Best Guest House: A smaller property offering warm hospitality, clean and comfortable rooms, and personalised guest services.
Eligibility: Restaurants and fast-food outlets operating in Kwara State for at least 1 year with valid CAC registration.
- Best Restaurant: A full-service restaurant offering exceptional cuisine, welcoming ambiance, impeccable service, and quality ingredients.
- Best Fast-Food: A quick-service restaurant offering fresh, delicious meals with efficient service, clean facilities, and good value for money.
- Best African Restaurant: A restaurant specialising in traditional Nigerian and African cuisine, celebrating local flavours and culinary heritage.
- Best Continental Restaurant: A restaurant offering international cuisine with authentic recipes and a sophisticated dining experience.
Eligibility: Transport and travel companies operating in or serving Kwara State, with valid CAC registration.
- Best Transport Company: A company offering reliable, safe, and punctual transportation services with well-maintained vehicles and strong safety records.
- Best Operating Airline: An airline operating domestic routes serving Kwara State passengers, with strong customer service, punctuality, and passenger comfort.
- Best Travel Agency: A travel agency offering exceptional tour packages, customer support, and travel experiences relevant to Kwara State.
Eligibility: Tourism operators, attractions, and cultural institutions operating in Kwara State for at least 1 year.
- Best Local Tourist Attraction: A tourist site, cultural landmark, or heritage destination in Kwara State that offers an exceptional visitor experience and is actively maintained.
- Best Tour Operator in Kwara State: A tour company delivering well-organised, safe, and memorable tour experiences within Kwara State.
- Best Sustainable Tourism Initiative: A tourism business or project demonstrating a commitment to environmental protection, community benefit, and long-term sustainability. Documentation required.
Note: Categories such as "Best Club," "Best Lounge," "Best Event Planner," and other 2026 pilot categories are under review for future editions. The 18 categories above are the confirmed 2026 Kwara Edition lineup.
Ready to Nominate?
If your business meets the requirements and you are ready to compete for a KWASHATE Award, submit your nomination today.
📋 Go to Nomination Page