Nigeria’s former President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, has extolled the leadership qualities of Governor David Umahi of Ebonyi State, describing him as “an achiever.”
A statement on Monday by Umahi’s Chief Press Secretary, Emma Anya, quoted the former President as adding that the award was deserving of the recipient for his distinctive performance in his calling as a democratic leader.
“This Governor(Umahi) is a doer, an achiever: I have seen him at work and I know what he is doing in his state,” Obasanjo stressed at the event had business moguls like Africa’s richest man, Aliko Dangote; politicians and bankers in attendance.
While the award for Good Governance went to the Ebonyi State Governor; that of Professional Leadership was conferred on Emefiele. The award for Humanitarian Service was bagged by Dr. Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu while Alhaji Ahmed Joda and Mrs. Chinelo Anohu-Amazu received Public Service Awards. Dr. Kesington Adebutu and Dr. Daniel Chukwudozie were awarded for Business Leadership.
“We need exemplary leaders like Zik at a time when our understanding of a united Nigeria is troubled,” an elated Umahi noted.
He expressed belief in one indivisible Nigeria built in love, peace, fairness, equity and justice, adding that the award would spur him to greater works and services to the people “especially to pursue those virtues for which Zik of Africa lived and died in this country.”
Noting that “leadership used properly will promote a society”, he stressed the need for a course correction in Nigeria based on corrupt-free leadership and good conscience without which, the nation cannot move forward.
The Chairman of the event, Professor Joe Irukwu (SAN), in his remark poured encomiums on the late Azikiwe who ,according to him, laid foundation for effective and unifying leadership in the country.
He challenged all modern day leaders to strive to promote the legacies of the late icon and commended the organizers for the caliber of the nominee.
Other prominent Nigerians that graced the event were Billionaire oil magnate, Femi Otedola; former Managing Director of Access Bank Aig-Imouhuode; Deputy Governor of Ebonyi State, Kelechi Igwe ; many members of the state Executive Council and House of Assembly.