October 4th, 2025 marked an unforgettable evening for the literary world, as poets, creatives, and lovers of the art gathered at the elegant DoubleTree Hilton Hotel, Kensington, London, for the illustrious 2025 Wordplay Poetry Awards.
At the heart of the night’s vibrancy was the dazzling win of Ayomide Inufin, famously hailed as The Oba of Poetry and Spotlight Poetry Showman, who clinched the coveted Best Spoken Word Newcomer Award. The Nigerian UK-based creative powerhouse, also known as Ayomide D’Great, outshone a fiercely competitive field following rigorous rounds of selection from over 1,856 submissions! From a staggering initial pool, the entries were whittled down to a Top 3, where Ayomide emerged a clear victor by a remarkable margin.
Ayomide’s poetry is electrifying, breathing life into societal truths and cultural narratives through a lens that reflects the African and Nigerian experience with poignancy and flair. His work, celebrated for its vivid imagery and powerful storytelling, moves audiences deeply. Readers and listeners alike find themselves drawn into a world where real-life issues, community trends, and cultural heritage intermingle seamlessly—an enthralling blend that makes his performances and readings impactful and unforgettable.
With multiple poetry collections to his name, Ayomide’s influence extends beyond stages into libraries—highlighted by his feature in the “Poetry Corner” of Manchester libraries—and prestigious events such as the UK’s inaugural Poetry Expo in Liverpool. His role as a “Spotlight Poetry Showman” at Sheffield’s Utopia Theatre further cements his reputation as a champion of creative expression.
Known for his magnetic presence at spoken word events including the popular “Pull Up and Speak Event” in Manchester, Ayomide is not only a gifted poet but also a versatile content creator, storyteller, public speaker, and social media maven. His creative versatility has also made him a sought-after brand influencer, notably for the fashion label “The Norchi Jalab.”
An alumnus of the University of Salford, Greater Manchester, he holds a Master’s degree in Creative Writing, Innovation, and Experimentation—credentials that inform and elevate his craft.
Follow the journey of Ayomide Inufin and experience the future of poetry on Instagram @ayomide_dgreat, where words transcend boundaries and creativity knows no limits.
This award-winning poet’s rise is a testament to the power of authentically voiced creativity that captivates audiences and challenges perspectives—truly a night London’s literary scene will remember.
