News Agency of Nigeria
Edo IDP camp coordinator bags ‘living legacy’ humanitarian award
General News

Edo IDP camp coordinator bags ‘living legacy’ humanitarian award

192 total views today

By Deborah Coker

Mr Solomon Folorunsho, Coordinator of the Home for the Needy Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camp, on Wednesday bagged the “Living Legacy” Humanitarian Award.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the award ceremony, organised by the Humanitarian Service Diamond Awards (HSD Award) in Abuja.

According to the organisers, Folorunsho was recognised for his exceptional track record in national development, societal upliftment, and relentless service to humanity.

Speaking shortly before receiving the award, Folorunsho stressed the importance of translating humanitarian ideals into daily practice.

He said it was the duty of the humanitarian community to prevent and alleviate suffering wherever it was found, with special focus on the most vulnerable.

“I want everyone in the humanitarian community to know that you are very special in the hands of God.

“If you look closely today, Nigeria is a huge humanitarian society, with many people in need of your service.

“Everyone you see suffering in the streets is a potential doctor, engineer, president, or lawyer. Though we may not be many today, the work we are doing will inspire others to join us,” he said.

Folorunsho added that offering help to the needy, regardless of religion, touched the heart of God.

“My experience shows that these are the persons God will bless, no matter their age.

“There are many in our society who are weak, disabled, homeless and displaced. When people are left without help, some resort to self-help, which often leads to crime.

“But if equal opportunities are given to every human being, we will see good results everywhere,” he said.

He explained that every activity at the Home for the Needy IDP camp was borne out of the need to serve humanity, noting that the less privileged also deserved dignity and care.

“Love your neighbour as yourself. Nigerians are neighbours to one another, and everyone in need is our neighbour,” he said.

Similarly, Dr Bashir Jamoh, immediate past Director-General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), another awardee, said Nigerians in the North East remained the most vulnerable.

Jamoh noted that residents of the region faced frequent attacks and threats, and called for a central body to protect humanitarian workers.

“Sometimes they are attacked, killed, or maimed for no reason. It is our duty to structure an organisation under which humanitarian bodies can unite to safeguard aid workers and support their efforts,” he said.

He also urged the media to help change negative narratives by educating the public and drawing attention to the plight of the less privileged.

“It is our duty to support media teams who amplify these issues to the country and the world. Nigeria is already tagged as one of the most dangerous countries for humanitarian workers,” he added.

NAN reports that the HSD Award is an annual event that celebrates individuals and organisations for their contributions to humanitarian causes and societal development.

The 2025 edition, held in commemoration of the World Humanitarian Day on Aug. 20, highlighted compassion, service, and the pursuit of human dignity, recognising those who have made lasting impacts through community development, philanthropy, and social responsibility. (NAN)

Edited by Sadiya Hamza

Dangote bags ‘Cement Company of the Year’ Award
Economy/Business

Dangote bags ‘Cement Company of the Year’ Award

318 total views today

By Nana Musa

The Dangote Cement Plc has bagged the ‘Cement Company of the Year’ award for its support for the real estate sector in Africa.

 

The award was given at the just concluded Africa International Housing Show (AIHS) in Abuja.

 

The Dangote Cement Plc is one of the sponsors of the four-day housing exhibition that ended Aug. 1 where 21 countries and 40,000 exhibitors participated.

 

Presenting the award on behalf of the organisers of the show, Gov. Ahmad Aliyu of Sokoto State, who was represented by his deputy, Idris Mohammed-Gobir, described the Dangote cement as a household name and the pride of Africa.

 

According to him, the Dangote Cement has supported Nigerian economy through job creation and philanthropy, among others.

 

The Minister for Housing and Urban Development, Ahmad Dangiwa, lauded Dangote Cement for its contributions to the development of the Nigerian Economy.

 

Dangiwa urged the company to join hands with government in bridging the gap of Housing deficit in the Country.

 

Coordinator of the Show, Festus Adebayo, said that the housing deficit in the country could be mitigated through Public Private Partnership (PPP).

 

He said: “Innovation and collaboration are top priorities for us, given the rapid technological advancements in housing construction, financing and system improvements.”

 

Adebayo said he was optimistic that the partnership with Dangote Cement Plc would help address the narrative of housing shortfall in the country.

 

Speaking earlier, the Director General, Nigerian Building and Road Research Institute, (NBRRI), Prof. Samson Duna, said: “Dangote cement dominates the Nigeria and West Africa markets in respect of patronage and is doing well. Dangote Cement stands for standard and quality.”

 

Speaking at the company’s Special Day, the National Sales Director, Dangote Cement Plc, Dolapo Alli, said: “Addressing housing issues requires collaboration among various stakeholders, including government agencies, private developers, non-profits, and communities. The government can adopt public-private partnerships (PPPs) to support mass housing initiatives.

 

“Through PPP models, the government may initiate the construction of new estates, while companies and firms in the building and construction sector can be granted tax waivers and credits to facilitate the financing of new and affordable housing developments.”

 

A statement from the company’s spokesman, Anthony Chiejina, said that the theme of the 2025 Show: Reimagining Housing Through Innovation, Collaboration and Policy” aptly resonated with its core value.

 

The latest recognition came amidst several other recognitions across Africa.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

Water Minister bags service delivery award
Environment

Water Minister bags service delivery award

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By Akpan Glory 

The Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof. Joseph Utsev, has been honoured with the 2024 Service Delivery Award by Blueprint Newspaper for his outstanding contributions to public service and sectoral reforms.

The award was presented on Tuesday during the newspaper’s Public Lecture, Impact Series, and Awards Ceremony at the Abuja Continental Hotel, with the theme: “Exploring the Potential of Livestock Export”.

In his remarks, the minister expressed gratitude to the organisers for the recognition.

He dedicated the award to God Almighty and President Bola Tinubu, under whose leadership, he said, the Renewed Hope Agenda was being actively implemented across ministries.

“This award is a call to do more. We remain committed to efficient service delivery and strengthening public engagement,” he said.

Utsev also commended Blueprint Newspaper for fostering national dialogue on strategic development issues such as livestock, calling it a key sector for Nigeria’s economic growth and food security.

Earlier, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Sen. George Akume, who chaired the occasion, said the livestock sector had huge untapped potential capable of driving industrial development and boosting Nigeria’s export profile.

He noted that the recent establishment of the Federal Ministry of Livestock Development was a deliberate step by the President to harness the sector’s value chain, create jobs, and address poverty.

“This initiative reflects our commitment to sustainable solutions for national growth,” Akume added.

Also speaking, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, emphasised the role of the media in building democracy, encouraging journalists to uphold professionalism and accountability.

“The media must remain partners in progress by informing the public and holding institutions accountable,” he said.

In his welcome address, Mr Salisu Umar, Managing Director and CEO of Blueprint Newspaper, said the awardees were selected based on merit and their visible impact in their various fields.

He said the Impact Series and Awards Ceremony aimed to celebrate excellence, promote constructive policy discourse, and inspire commitment to national development.

The keynote address was delivered by Prof. Attahiru Jega, former INEC Chairman and Special Adviser to the President/National Coordinator of the Presidential Livestock Reform Initiative.

He stressed the importance of livestock reform in addressing food insecurity and boosting rural economies.

Other dignitaries at the event included Dele Alake, Minister of Solid Minerals; Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, Minister of Women Affairs; Brig.-Gen. Yahaya Abubakar (Rtd), the Etsu Nupe; and David Umahi, Minister of Works, among others.

NAN reports that several Nigerians who have distinguished themselves in public service, governance, and development were also honoured at the event.

The ceremony drew participants from the National Assembly, academia, civil society, media, and other stakeholder groups. (NAN)

Edited by Tosin Kolade

Arco nominates U.S presidential prize winner for Diaspora Award
General News

Arco nominates U.S presidential prize winner for Diaspora Award

229 total views today

By Kayode Adebiyi

Arco Group Plc has nominated Voke Ogueh to receive the National Diaspora Merit Award at the 2025 Nigerians in Diaspora celebrations, scheduled for Friday and Saturday in Abuja.

This is contained in a statement by its Group Managing Director/CEO, Mr Alfred Okoigun.

Okoigun said that the nomination was in line with its efforts to promote excellence in science and technology.

Ogueh was recently honoured with the 2025 U.S Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST) by the President of the United States.

“We believe that Voke Ogueh deserves to be meaningfully recognised at home to inspire others and to celebrate global Nigerian achievements in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM),” he said.

Ogueh said her passion for problem-solving had earned her an A1 in Mathematics in SSCE and a full Shell Petroleum Company Scholarship to study Industrial Mathematics at the University of Benin.

She said she is currently the Vice President of Digital Education at Scrumban AI, a Texas, U.S.-based tech startup, where she leads the Talent Acceleration Programme Team.

Ogeh said that the team transforms the experiences of participants through digital tools, mentorship, and scalable solutions used in the tech industry.

“I am focused on bridging the skill gaps, especially among young graduates, and empowering the new age workforce in digital productivity tools with a growth mindset.

“I also inspire young Africans to make a difference worldwide,” she said,(NAN)

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

Association applauds cybersecurity research excellence award winners for hard work  
Science & Tech

Association applauds cybersecurity research excellence award winners for hard work  

328 total views today

 

By Jessica Dogo

The Cyber Security Experts Association of Nigeria (CSEAN) has applauded the winners of the 2025 National Cybersecurity Awards for their hard work and outstanding contributions to Nigeria’s cybersecurity ecosystem.

CSEAN’s President, Ade Shoyinka, who gave the commendation in a statement on Sunday also commended the National Information Technology

Development Agency (NITDA), for successfully organising the event’s maiden edition recently in Abuja.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event, with the theme: “Building a Resilient Digital Future,” brought together policymakers, industry leaders, security experts, and development partners.

It aimed to explore emerging cyber threats, close national vulnerabilities, and policies that support national security and sustainable digital development.

Shoyinka also lauded the Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, and Office of the National Security Adviser for co-hosting the first National Cybersecurity Conference (NCSC 2025) during which the awards were given.

While describing the maiden edition of the event as successful and progressive, Shoyinka congratulated all the winners for their outstanding contributions, which he noted would enhance the nation’s cybersecurity ecosystem.

“CSEAN received the Cyber Security Research Excellence Award given for the impactful research and Policy work.

“The CSEAN Research Team has produced several technical reports, National Cyber Threat Forecasts from 2022 to 2025, and Landscapes from 2022 to 2025 for use in national policy and cybersecurity preparedness.

“These resources are available to the public through the official CSEAN website for each individual’s use, be they stakeholders in the public or private sector,” he said.

He further explained that the CSEAN research team serves as managing editors for the peer-reviewed conference proceedings of a cyber-secure Nigeria, which document academic insights from past conference events.

According to him, the researches’ Volumes 1, 2 and 3 are available on the official conference website, adding that they demonstrate a strong commitment toward knowledge dissemination and academic discussion.

“NCSC 2025 is a significant advancement along Nigeria’s journey to a resilient, secure digital future, and innovative mindset, a culture of shared responsibility, and strategic coordination to protect Nigeria’s digital ecosystem for current and future generations.

“As the NCSC 2025 comes to an end, Nigeria acknowledges the importance of a secure digital future and the role that innovation, shared responsibility, and national coordination have in ensuring resilience in the digital economy.

“The presentation of the Cybersecurity Research Excellence Award to CSEAN is a great reinforcement ahead of the CSEAN Cyber Secure Nigeria Conference on the 8th and 9th of October 2025, in Lagos State, Nigeria,” he said.

The Conference, “Digital Trust as National Capital: Enabling Secure, Inclusive Digital Economies”, aims to build on the momentum from NCSC 2025 to continue the conversation of innovation and trust in Nigeria’s digital space.

The association’s president said the Lagos conference would highlight CSEAN’s emerging role in influencing national conversations about cybersecurity and developing and providing inclusive, research-based, secure digital economy solutions.

He said: “As Nigeria further develops its digital transformation across critical sectors, threats to our digital infrastructure, economy, and citizens have expanded in size and complexity.

“NCSC 2025 represents a coordinated national effort to enhance the security of Nigeria’s critical systems and people in an ever-evolving digital landscape through resilience building, knowledge sharing, and collaboration across the national cyber ecosystem.

“It also demonstrates Nigeria’s commitment to enhancing its cybersecurity framework consistent with best practices globally and was powered by QNA.” (NAN)

Edited by Mark Longyen

FG awards cars, flats to outstanding civil servants
General News

FG awards cars, flats to outstanding civil servants

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By Okon Okon

The Federal Government has rewarded three outstanding civil servants with two Sports Utility Vehicles (SUVs) and a two-bedroom flat at the 2025 Federal Civil Service Rewards and Recognition Awards Ceremony.

The event which was held on Saturday night in Abuja, marked the grand finale of activities for the 2025 Civil Service Week celebration.

The awardees include Mrs Hadiza Bahijjatu of the Federal Ministry of Environment, who received an SUV; Mr Chukwudi Ekwenugo of the Ministry of Marine and Blue Economy, who got an SUV and a cash prize of N500,000; and Mr Oluwabamidele Kogbe of the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development, who was awarded a two-bedroom flat.

15 other civil servants were also honoured with gifts including laptops, plaques, and cash prizes.

Speaking at the event, President Bola Tinubu lauded the commitment and exceptional services of Nigerian civil servants, describing them as the “engine room” of national governance and policy implementation.

“We are here to celebrate the dedication and exceptional contributions of our civil servants. Their tireless efforts reflect our shared commitment to national progress,” Tinubu said.

Represented by Sen. George Akume, Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Tinubu re-affirmed his administration’s commitment to reforms in the public service sector, including improved welfare and accountability mechanisms.

“Performance must no longer be optional. Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) must institutionalise consequence management,  rewarding integrity and excellence, while ensuring that misconduct is duly sanctioned,” he said.

In her remarks, the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation (HCSF), Mrs Didi Walson-Jack, described the awardees as “quiet reformers” whose daily commitment has contributed immensely to service delivery and system strengthening.

“This evening, we celebrate not rank, but impact.

“These civil servants consistently show up, meet deadlines, and drive change.

“Punctuality and regular attendance must once again define our service culture,” she said.

Walson-Jack noted that 2025 Civil Service Week celebration included the maiden edition of the International Civil Service Conference (ICSC) which had delegates from across the world in attendance.

She described the conference as “a memorable event in the history of Nigeria’s public service”.

According to her, the ICSC served as a platform to redefine civil service standards and showcase Nigeria’s reform initiatives, including digitalisation, leadership training, and performance management systems.

The HCSF, therefore, urged MDAs to actively participate in future award processes, adding that some failed to submit nominations, while others did not meet established criteria.

Appreciating the gesture, one of the recipients, Mrs Bahijjatu, expressed gratitude for the recognition.

“I thank God for this honour. I also hope that those who were not recognised this year will be acknowledged in future, as many civil servants work diligently behind the scenes,” she said. (NAN)

Edited by Rotimi Ijikanmi

FCC Commissioner honoured with outstanding personality of year award
General News

FCC Commissioner honoured with outstanding personality of year award

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By Patricia Amogu

Mrs Ginika-Tor Williams, the Federal Commissioner representing Enugu State at the Federal Character Commission (FCC), has been honoured with the “Most Outstanding Personality of the Year 2025” at the African Iconic Women Recognition Awards (AIWRA) 2025 in Abuja.

Mrs. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, the First Lady of Lagos State, won the AIWRA 2024 award after she secured a comfortable lead over four other first ladies in the voting exercise that ensued.

Organised by Face of Democracy Nigeria (FDN), the award recognises outstanding women for their contributions to peace-building and national development.

As women in Nigeria continue to break the glass ceiling in all careers and notable professions, they have also been identified by the celebrity recognition firm for honours.

The First Lady of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Mrs. Denise Nyakeru Tshisekedi alongside her Ghanaian counterpart Rebecca Naa Okaikor Akufo-Addo and that of Benin Republic, Madam Claudine Talon are some of the women that received various awards in 2024.

Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, the senator representing Kogi central, and Boma Goodhead, the lawmaker representing Akuku/Asari Toru constituency in Rivers, were shortlisted for the 2024 AIWRA awards.

In her reaction to the award, Ginika-Tor told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on the sidelines of the event that she remains an advocate for justice and human rights and will continue to be resilient in her advocacy for the full representation of the common man in all strata of the nation.

“Being the iconic personality of the year reminds me that there is more work to be done.

“You do things, and you never know that people would be watching. It goes a long way to tell me that I have to continue to be the best in everything I do, to try to project the system in a positive light, and to try to remain steadfast in what I believe in.

“Just like our national anthem seeks to achieve, may the God of creation help us to build a nation where no man is oppressed, so that with peace and plenty, Nigeria might be blessed.

“It is a thing of joy for me to have been on the path of positivity for the advancement of Africa and Nigeria and today I am being honoured as the iconic personality of the year.

“It goes a long way to say that it is time for me to begin to do more because it is not enough.

“It is often said that to whom much is given, much is expected,” she said.

She urged women to unite and work closely not as competitors but as supporters.

“It doesn’t really matter what you are going through because everyone is striving, but you’ve got to show society the real you.

“You’ve got to give to society what you’ve got,” she added.

Another of the awardees, Mrs Rabia Usoro, the Chief Executive Officer, Hareem Istanbul (Hareem Group, Co-founder/Principal Partner of We Make Magic Studios, said women had the capacity to make significant impact in the society when empowered.

“I have dedicated my life to empowering women. So, I try to be a role model for them.

Among the women honoured is Huriyya Dauda Lawal, who was recognised for her exceptional leadership and advocacy abilities within the span of two years as the wife of the Zamfara State Governor among others. (NAN)

Edited by Emmanuel Yashim

Isotu-Edeh receives Nigeria’s ‘Pillar of Environmental Health’ award
Environment

Isotu-Edeh receives Nigeria’s ‘Pillar of Environmental Health’ award

924 total views today

By Akpan Glory

Dr Edwin Isotu-Edeh, the WHO National Consultant for Public Health and Environment, has been recognised with the prestigious ‘Pillar of Environmental Health’ award in Nigeria.

The award ceremony, presided over by President Bola Tinubu and represented by Sen. George Akume, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, took place at the inaugural National Environmental Health Excellence Award (NEHEA) in Abuja.

The event was organised by the Environmental Health Council of Nigeria (EHCON).

Isotu-Edeh is an award-winning UN Global Environmental Health Expert, an Executive Career Mentor, a Keynote Speaker, and a transformational leader.

With over two decades of experience and impact, his work spans public health, environmental leadership, academia, youth enterprise development, and institutional system-building.

As the National Technical Officer leading the Public Health and Environment Programme for the WHO in Nigeria, he spearheads innovative, high-impact climate and environmentally sustainable initiatives to improve health outcomes.

In 2021, he coordinated the signing of Nigeria’s first Health Ministerial Commitment to building a sustainable and climate-resilient health system.

This commitment aligns with the Paris Agreement, the United Nations COP26 Health Programme, and Nigeria’s Energy Transition Plan 2060.

Mr Raph Nnam, the Steering Chairman of Sustainable Education and Policy Archiving at the Nigerian Environmental Summit Group (NESUG), described the recognition as well-deserved.

He told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Thursday that the awardee is an exemplary champion and an impact-driven emerging leader in public health and environmental sustainability in Nigeria.

Nnam noted that NESUG is the fastest-growing environmental sustainability think tank in Nigeria, mobilising environmental stewardship through a unified platform and a shared conversation.

He said the platform aims to connect over 650,000 experts in environmental health, sustainability, and related fields ahead of the Nigerian Environmental Summit 2025.

He praised Isotu-Edeh’s dedication to climate health and sustainability, noting Nigeria needs more visionary professionals like him.

Isotu-Edeh outlined Nigeria’s key environmental challenges, including climate change, deforestation, pollution, and poor waste management, stressing their impact on public health.

He emphasised the importance of collaboration, innovation, and evidence-based interventions in driving meaningful change.

He expressed his appreciation to Dr Walter Molumbo, WHO Country Representative, for his outstanding leadership in promoting a healthier environment in Nigeria.

He also thanked EHCON and all those dedicated to addressing environmental determinants of health, acknowledging their collective efforts in tackling Nigeria’s environmental challenges.

The Minister of Environment, Balarabe Lawal, said the event celebrated achievements and reaffirmed commitment to environmental stewardship, sustainability, and resilience.

“We celebrate individuals, organisations, and institutions that have demonstrated exemplary leadership, innovation, and dedication in promoting environmental health across the country,” he said.

He praised the president for advancing environmental health in Nigeria, citing renewed awareness and commitment to sustainability under his leadership.

“Our environment is the foundation upon which we build our communities, industries, and future aspirations.

“Ensuring a clean, healthy, and sustainable environment is not just a responsibility but a duty we owe to ourselves and to generations yet unborn”.

Dr Yakubu Baba, EHCON Registrar, said the award honours individuals and organisations excelling in environmental health services across public and private sectors in Nigeria. (NAN) www.nannews.ng

Edited by Tosin Kolade

Tinubu pledges stronger commitment to environmental protection
Environment

Tinubu pledges stronger commitment to environmental protection

807 total views today

By Felicia Imohimi

President Bola Tinubu has pledged to redouble his commitment to safeguarding the environment and championing policies that will ensure the health and well-being of the populace.

Tinubu made the commitment at the maiden edition of the National Environment Health Excellence Award (NEHEA), organised by the Environmental Health Council of Nigeria (EHCON) on Tuesday in Abuja.

He was represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume.

“Together, we shall continue to push the boundaries of what is possible to improve our environment and public health. We will prioritise the people and the planet.

“The global challenges of climate change, environmental degradation and emerging health risks demand urgent and sustained attention. We cannot afford complacency.

“We must embrace innovation, collaboration and investment in sustainable solutions to safeguard our environment and public health for future generations. The road ahead demands boldness”.

Tinubu noted that the government alone cannot address environmental challenges.

He stressed that it is a collective responsibility, ranging from farmers adopting climate-smart techniques to corporations investing in green technology.

According to him, environmental stewardship is not a burden but an opportunity to redefine progress.

“Let us remain steadfast in pursuing a healthier and more sustainable Nigeria.

“I charge you all to be the generation that bridges the gap between promise and action. Let us leave behind a Nigeria where forests breathe, rivers run clean, and children thrive under skies untainted by pollution”.

Tinubu stated that the award ceremony was not just a recognition of individual excellence but a testament to “our collective resolve to forge a Nigeria where clean air, safe water and sustainable practices are the birthright of every citizen”.

He commended EHCON for its unwavering dedication to improving the nation’s environmental health standards and practices.

“Your leadership in elevating environmental health standards, from policy innovation to community action, sets a laudable example for the nation”.

Describing environmental health professionals as the unsung architects of public health, he added that they are “the silent sentinels shielding the nation’s communities from preventable diseases, climate threats, and ecological decay.

“Your work is the bedrock for building a healthier Nigeria.

“Today is significant as a celebration of individual achievements and a testament to the collective strides we have made as a nation in strengthening environmental health governance”.

Tinubu described the award as a dual calling, compelling him to redouble his commitment to championing policies and prioritising people and the planet.

“We must embrace innovation, collaboration and investment in sustainable solutions to safeguard our environment and public health for future generations. The road ahead demands boldness”.

Dr Yakubu Baba, EHCON Registrar, said the award recognises individuals and organisations, both in the public and private sectors who have distinguished themselves in the delivery and support of environmental health services and practices in Nigeria.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the president was awarded the title of Grand Patron of the National Environment and Public Health Association of Nigeria (NEPHAN) and “Life Fellow”of the Society for Environmental and Public Health of Nigeria (SEPHON).

Also, WHO Country Representative, Dr Walter Kazadi Molumbo received the ‘Frontier of Environmental Health’ award, while Dr Edwin Isotu-Edeh, WHO National Consultant for Public Health and Environment, received the Distinguished Award of the ‘Pillar of Environmental Health’ in Nigeria.

NAN reports that the event also featured the unveiling of the National Environmental Health Practice Regulations 2025 and the inauguration of the Premises-Based National Greenhouse Gases (GHGs) Emission Monitoring Programme. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Tosin Kolade

Afe Babalola bags 2024 Best Nigerian Patriot Award
General News

Afe Babalola bags 2024 Best Nigerian Patriot Award

593 total views today

 

By Funmilayo Adeyemi/Collins Yakubu-Hammer

An elder statesman and legal icon, Chief Afe Babalola, has bagged the 2024 Best Nigerian Patriot Award for his outstanding performance in humanitarian activities, provision of quality education as well as promotion of peace.

 

The award was given at an induction ceremony and technical workshop for the inauguration and certification of UN Ambassadors for Peace on Thursday in Abuja.

 

The event with the theme, “Effective Approach to Anger Management and Tolerance as Panacea for Global Peace and Sustainable Development,” was organised by the Association of UN Ambassadors for Peace (ASUNAP).

 

The award was organised in collaboration with The Mighty One Empowerment Foundation (TEMOEFA) to support the United Nations efforts in promoting global peace and ethnic tolerance.

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that no fewer than 10 persons were also inducted and certified as UN Ambassadors for Peace.

 

A former Minister of Education, Prof. Tunde Adeniran, who received the award on behalf of Babalola, said the association had done considerable research to come up with the nomination.

 

“It is one thing for individuals to be playing some roles, but it’s another thing for these roles to be recognised and to be appreciated by the society.

 

“As a scholar and a researcher, I know that when you do a thorough research into what individuals have contributed in this particular area, one would see that it would be difficult to find someone who has contributed more than Are Afe Babalola.

 

“This is quite evident from his forays into different areas of national life and continental life of Africa,” he said.

 

Adeniran called on Nigerians to key into the humanitarian gestures carried out by Babalola.

 

According to him, if more Nigerians embrace peace and conflict resolution, a lot would be achieved for the country and for humanity.

 

“This is because there is nothing as precious as peace; without peace, you will not have a stable polity.

 

” Without peace, there will be no development and love among the people.

 

” You will not be able to advance to the level where you can say you have reached the optimum.

 

“The ultimate goal of society is to actualise the potential of citizens, and to be able to get the very best for people.

 

“I will certainly encourage and plead with Nigerians to key into this, to do their very best, starting from the local, family, community and societal level,” he said.

 

Also speaking, the Global Director of Interfaith for ASUNAP, Emmanuel Emeka, said the event was aimed at recognising Nigerians in order to promote peace in the society.

 

Emeka said the association had holistically and comprehensively taken the data of Babalola’s performance, his impact in Nigeria and beyond and found him worthy of the award.

 

He said that voting was conducted across the nooks and crannies of the country, adding that his name came up with the highest number of votes among nominations.

 

He said the newly inducted ambassadors would be involved in conflict resolution and peacemaking.

 

” You can hear the reports of wars everywhere, indecent dressing everywhere and conflict everywhere.

 

” We need people whose integrity had been proven and we should bring them on board globally for peace,” he said.

 

In a keynote address, the Guest Speaker, Prof. Casmiar Obialom, charged the ambassadors not to give war a chance.

 

He noted that the cumulative effect of not implementing a Mrshall Plan of Action to abate the incidence of impunity had been the root cause of conflicts in society.

 

Among Nigerians inducted into the association were retired Brig.-Gen. Nuhu Milah, retired Commandant Anthony Nwegbo, Prof. Abiodun Ajibade, Maxwell Abubu, Mrs Comfort Arinze and Dr Raphael Gajere.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

(Edited by Mufutau Ojo)

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