The LEADERSHIP Conference and Awards 2024 has unveiled the governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Bassey Eno, and 25 other individuals and organisations who have made exceptional contributions to governance, business, social impact, and public service in Nigeria. The award ceremony, set to take place next year, will celebrate these trailblazers for their outstanding leadership, vision, and commitment to national development.
Since assuming office, Governor Pastor Umo Bassey Eno, has been a catalyst for transformative development across Akwa Ibom State. His administration has focused on enhancing infrastructure, improving healthcare, and promoting education, ushering in a new era of prosperity for the people of the state.
Under his leadership, Akwa Ibom has made remarkable strides in economic diversification, attracting significant investments in agriculture, industry, and tourism. Governor Eno’s commitment to infrastructure development has led to the construction of vital road networks, public service facilities, and housing projects that have not only improved the quality of life for citizens but have also established Akwa Ibom as a prime destination for business and investment.
Governor Eno has shown unwavering dedication to youth empowerment, gender equality, and social inclusion, ensuring that the benefits of the state’s development reach all its people. His pragmatic approach to governance and his ability to build strong partnerships with the private sector and federal institutions have positioned Akwa Ibom as a model of good governance in Nigeria.
Through his tireless service, passion, and commitment to progress, Pastor Umo Bassey Eno continues to inspire positive change, securing a bright and sustainable future for Akwa Ibom State.
Aliko Dangote Named Person Of The Year
Alhaji Aliko Mohammad Dangote, Nigeria’s foremost industrialist and philanthropist, is set to receive the coveted Person of the Year award. His immense contributions to the nation’s economy and his philanthropic efforts make him a deserving recipient of this highest honour at the awards.
Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Barrister Nyesom Wike, will receive the Quinquennial Award for Outstanding Person in Governance and Infrastructure, recognising his transformative leadership in infrastructure development.
Governors And Politicians Recognised For Leadership
In the Governor of the Year category, multiple winners will be celebrated for their transformative leadership, including Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah,and Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf. These leaders are recognised for driving sustainable growth, infrastructural development, and policy innovations that benefit their communities.
The Politician of the Year award will go to Adams Oshiomhole (CON), former Governor of Edo State, for his ongoing influence in Nigerian politics and his advocacy for democratic growth.
Alhaji Bashir Adewale Adeniyi (MFR), Comptroller-General of Customs, will be honoured as Public Service Person of the Year for his exceptional leadership in improving the efficiency of Nigeria’s Customs Service (NCS).
In business, Benedict Peters, Founder and CEO of AITEO, will be recognised as Business Person of the Year, and Dame (Dr) Adaora Umeoji, GMD/CEO of Zenith Bank Plc, will receive the Banker of the Year award for her role in transforming the banking industry.
Other remarkable business leaders, including the CEO of NORD Automobiles Ltd, Oluwatobi Ajayi (CEO of the Year-Private Sector) and Bamanga Usman Jada, MD/CEO of the Oil & Gas Free Zone Authority (CEO of the Year – Public Sector), will also be honoured for their leadership in their respective industries.
AVSATEL Communications Limited is the Company of the Year, while ARCO Enginering Limited is the Oil & Gas Local Content Champion of the Year.
The Social Impact Person of the Year award will be presented to Olori Ivie Atuwatse III for her tireless efforts in championing education and healthcare initiatives. OPAY will be named Fintech Company of the Year for promoting financial inclusion in Nigeria, while Alternative Bank will receive the Most Innovative Bank of the Year award for its pioneering work in digital banking.
The Outstanding Young Person of the Year 2024 award will go to ENACTUS team from Joseph Sarwuan Tarka University, Makurdi. They are ecognised for championing innovation and sustainability. Terra Cube will receive the Product of the Year award for its innovative solutions in sustainable living.
Minister of environment, Balarabe Abbas Lawal, will be honoured as Environmental Impact Person of the Year for his leadership in advancing environmental policies and addressing climate change.