President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was awarded the prestigious Lifetime African Achievement Award by the Millennium Excellence Foundation on Monday, marking a significant recognition of his leadership and contributions to the African continent.
The award, presented during the 25th anniversary of the Millennium Excellence Prize in Kumasi, Ghana, underscores Tinubu’s lasting impact on Africa’s development and progress.
Represented by the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Amb. Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, Tinubu expressed deep appreciation for the honor, commending Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, Asantehene and patron of the Foundation, for the invitation and the successful execution of the event.
In his speech, delivered by Ambassador Odumegwu-Ojukwu, Tinubu acknowledged the importance of the Foundation’s work in promoting African excellence and leadership across various sectors.
“I salute the visionaries who have nurtured this institution for a quarter of a century and also celebrate the values of honour, integrity, service, and excellence that underpin its work,” Tinubu remarked. He further praised the Foundation for identifying and celebrating outstanding Africans whose achievements have not only elevated the continent but also inspired generations across the globe.
Notable past awardees include icons such as the late Archbishop Desmond Tutu, Nobel laureate Prof. Wole Soyinka, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, and businessman Dr. Mo Ibrahim. These figures, along with Tinubu, are recognized for their profound influence on Africa’s socio-political and economic landscape.
In his address, Tinubu called on the youth of Africa to rise with courage and contribute to making the continent more united, peaceful, and prosperous. He emphasized the importance of nurturing talent and leadership in key sectors, including science, technology, education, governance, entrepreneurship, and the arts.
The Nigerian president also stressed the need for continued collaboration among African nations, highlighting the power of unity in shaping the continent’s shared future. “We must work together to shape our destiny,” he urged, encouraging the Foundation to continue inspiring excellence and fostering cross-border partnerships.
The event was a gathering of distinguished African leaders and figures, with several other awards presented. Dr. Benedict Oramah, President of the African Export-Import Bank (AFREXIM), received the Global Intra-African Trade Excellence Award.
Akwa Ibom State Governor Pastor Umo Eno was honored with the Lifetime African Achievement Prize for Governance and Public Service. Alhaji AbdulSamad Rabiu, Founder of BUA Group, was recognized for African Excellence in Business, while Mr. Dumo Lulu-Briggs received the African Traditional Leadership and Business Excellence award.
The Millennium Excellence Prize, which began in 1988, has become one of Africa’s most respected platforms for recognizing excellence and contributions to the continent’s development. This year’s awards served as a reminder of the power of leadership, service, and collaboration in driving Africa’s growth and prosperity.
