By Matthew Eloyi
In a welcome address at the Abuja International Conference Center during the OurNigeria News Awards 2023 on Sunday, Dr. AK Peters, Chairman of the Central Planning Committee, underscored the transformative power of the annual awards, describing them as a key to propelling awardees from one success to another in their life endeavours.
Addressing the audience gathered for the prestigious event, Dr Peters elaborated on the theme for the 2023 Awards, “Providing a Podium for the Unsung Heroes.” He emphasized that the awards were not for sale nor reserved for the highest bidders. Instead, they were meticulously conferred on selected individuals recognized for their highly inspirational achievements, invoking admiration and emulation.
“Please note that our awards are not for the highest bidders. Our awards are only for those who have scaled through the clear-cut parameters, criteria, scrutiny, and competency appraisals of our eagle-eyed, conservative, old-school crack team of assessors,” Dr. Peters clarified.
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According to Dr Peters, the awards aimed to celebrate and reward unsung heroes who had elevated the standard of leadership and contributed to the quest for a better Nigeria. He cited past awardees whose notable achievements had seen significant advancements in their respective fields.
Providing concrete examples, Dr Peters mentioned Senator Bassey Otu, recognized as the politician of the year in 2021, who is now the Executive Governor of Cross River state. General Christopher Musa, honored in 2022 for his contribution to the military, currently serves as Nigeria’s Chief of Defense Staff. Honourable Mohammed Abu Issa, recipient of the Ability in Disability award in 2021, now holds the position of Senior Special Assistant to the President on disability.
Dr. Peters affirmed that the individuals recognized in the 2023 OurNigeria Awards would experience similar elevations in their fields of endeavor. He assured the audience that the event was meticulously planned and properly organized, promising meaningful and impactful recognition for the deserving awardees.
