By Oluseye Ojo
CROSS SECTION OF THE AWARD WINNERS WITH THE MD, THE SUN PUBLISHING LIMITED, ONUOHA UKEH (6TH LEFT). PHOTOS BY DELE ONATADE AND TEMITOPE AINA
Chairman of the Sun Publishing Limited, Neya Kalu
MD/EIC, THE SUN PUBLISHING LIMITED, ONUOHA UKEH
OJO Saturday February 17, 2024, indeed brought a breath of fresh air to a world where mediocrity often triumphs.
It was one night that excellence, innovation, and resourcefulness were celebrated with full pomp and grandeur at the Expo Convention Centre, Eko Hotels and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos. It was the 21st edition of The Sun Awards, now seen as a beacon of excellence, and a testament to the prowess and determination of Nigerians, who have refused to be held back by any obstacle on their path.
The award was organised by The Sun Publishing Limited, publishers of Daily Sun, Saturday Sun, Sunday Sun and Sporting Sun, The annual event is more than just an awards ceremony. It is a gathering of the best and brightest minds in the country, a convergence of talents, and resilience that sets the standard for media, entertainment, and networking platforms across Africa. The Expo Convention Centre at Eko Hotels & Suites was transformed into a dazzling spectacle of glamour and radiance on February 17 2024, the evening of The Sun Awards. Dignitaries from all walks of life gathered to witness history in the making, to celebrate the achievements of their peers and colleagues. The fashion on display that night was a sight to behold. Nigerians showcased their rich cultural heritage and creativity through their exquisite attire, blending tradition with modernity in a seamless display of elegance and style. From the royal regalia of respected monarchs to the cosmopolitan costumes of fashion-forward individuals, every outfit spoke volumes about the ingenuity and sophistication of the Nigerian people. The hall itself was a masterpiece of design, with red and white decor adding a touch of luxury to the proceedings. The stage was a work of art, exuding a sense of magic and wonder.
The hospitality of The Sun was evident in every detail, from the exotic wines and small chops to the sumptuous buffet that awaited the guests. As the evening unfolded, the venue became a melting pot of talent and influence. Captains of industry, political heavyweights, entertainment icons, and media personalities mingled in a display of unity and camaraderie. It was a rare opportunity for individuals from different spheres of influence to come together and celebrate the achievements of their peers.
The red carpet was a flurry of activity as luxury cars and designer outfits made their grand entrance. The guests, decked out in their finest attire, exuded confidence and style as they stepped into the spotlight. It was a dazzling display of wealth and glamour, a showcase of the best that Nigeria has to offer. The entertainment that night was nothing short of spectacular. From the sensational performance of a female songwriter and actress, Jennifer Eliogu to the charismatic presence of Frank Edoho of ‘Who Wants to be a Millionaire’ fame, the evening was filled with electrifying moments that captivated the audience.
The models at the event, costumed in custom-made attire by Adire Oodua Textile Training Hub, added a touch of elegance and grace to the event. But the true stars of the night were the 34 outstanding Nigerians, who received awards in recognition of their remarkable achievements. These individuals, hailing from various fields of endeavour, were shining examples of excellence and dedication. Their success stories served as a source of inspiration for all who were in attendance that night. Chairman of the Sun Publishing Limited, Neya Kalu, in her opening address, said The Sun Awards aimed at recognising and celebrating people’s goals and achievements. She reflected on her own unexpected journey to leadership and emphasised the importance of representation in all aspects of society. She believed that empowering young voices and providing guidance and mentorship is crucial for the growth and evolution of institutions and leadership structures. The Sun publisher highlighted the significance of representation in fostering an environment where the torch of leadership is passed from one generation to the next, stressing that youth should not only be seen as the future but also as part of the present, and called for more young voices in positions of influence and decision-making. According to her, The Sun Awards not only acknowledge people’s accomplishments but also recognise the positive outcomes that arise from representation.
Kalu raised a toast to the recipients of the Sun Awards and to the potential and passion they represent. She acknowledged their role as change makers and dreamers, who inspired the future leaders, and hopes that their success would motivate others to strive for greatness. The Managing Director and Editor-in-Chief of The Sun Newspapers, Mr. Onuoha Ukeh, acknowledged that amidst the challenges facing Nigeria, there are individuals who have shown resilience, determination, and courage to overcome obstacles and achieve success. These individuals, he said, have utilised their ingenuity to make remarkable accomplishments in their respective fields and served as an inspiration of resourcefulness.
The purpose of The Sun Awards, he stated, is to recognise and honour these individuals, showcasing their success stories as evidence that Nigeria has the potentials to produce positive outcomes through the effective utilisation of its human and capital resources. The awards were presented in 15 categories to the 34 quintessential Nigerians that night. The categories are Man of the Year, Governor of the Year, Lifetime Achievement Award, Most Impactful Royal Father, Political Icon, First Lady of the Year, Businessman of the Year, Investor of the Year, Industrialist of the Year, Humanitarian Service Icon, Courage in Leadership Award, Public Service Award, Banker of the Year, Nollywood Icon of the Year, and Sports Personality Award.
Three distinguished personalities won the award in the category of Man of the Year. They are Alhaji Aliko Dangote, President, Dangote Group, honoured for successfully completing the Dangote Refinery and Petrochemicals; Mr. Tony Elumelu, Chairman, Heirs Holdings for empowering African youths with human and capital resources as well as giant strides in the power sector; as well as Chief Innocent Chukwuma, Chairman, Innoson Motor Vehicle Manufacturing Limited, for the investment and rapid expansion in vehicle manufacturing, especially towards conversion to compressed natural gas (CNG). In the category of Governor of the Year, three governors were also honoured.
They are Peter Mbah of Enugu State for restoring public water in the state as well as efforts at restoring peace and security in the state; Dapo Abiodun (Ogun); and Muhammad Inuwa Yahaya (Gombe).for consolidation of their achievements in their states. Lifetime Achievement Award went to an elder statesman, Pa Ayo Adebanjo; a legal luminary, Awa Kalu (SAN); and a renowned evangelist and philanthropist, Rev’d. Uma Ukpai, for their immense contributions to the country’s development over the years. Most Impactful Royal Father of the Year Award also went to Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, the Ooni of Ife; and Ogiame Atuwatse III, the Olu of Warri.
The 2023 presidential candidate of Labour Party (LP), Mr. Peter Obi, was garlanded with Political Icon Award, for being the main focus in the last general elections. First Lady of the Year Award went to Ambassador Olufolake Abdulrazaq, wife of the Kwara State governor and founder, Ajike People Support Centre, for her efforts at women and youth empowerment, campaign against gender violence and drug abuse, Chief Government Ekpemupolo (Tompolo), Chairman, Tantita Security Services received Courage in Leadership Award for his determination and courage to confront oil thieves by diligently executing the pipeline surveillance deal with the Federal Government. Chief Kenneth Ifekudu (Agbalanze), Chairman, Diamond Leeds Limited; Chief Peter Oge Obih, Chairman, Sea Map Group of Companies; and Dr. Ifeanyi Nwachukwu, Chief Executive Officer, Richland Properties and Homes Limited received Businessman of the Year Award The Investor of the Year Award was bestowed on the trio of Chief Christopher Ndubuisi, Chairman, Pinnatech Group; Dr. Oludare Akande, Chairman, Bellagio Airlines Limited; and Dr. Jayne Onwumere, Group Managing Director, Property World Africa Network (PWAN). Industrialist of the Year award went to former Minister of State for Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Uche Ogah, who is President, Masters Energy Group, for his massive investment in manufacturing, oil and gas, and motorcycle assembly; Chief Celestine Ebubeogu, Chairman, Tiger Foods, for his successes in food processing; and Chief James Uzuh, Chairman, J-Jumac Industries Limited, for manufacturing of travelling bags, suitcases and household items.
Three personalities were recognised in the Humanitarian Service Icon category. They are Lady Adaora Umeoji, Deputy Managing Director, Zenith Bank Plc; Chief Ikenna Okafor, Chairman, Keves Global Leasing Limited, and Archbishop Emeka Agwu, President, Voice of Evangelism International, Houston, Texas, USA, for their enormous global philanthropic gestures.
The awardees in the Public Service category are Mr. Robert Azibaola, Founder, Zeetin Engineering Limited; Gbenga Komolafe, Chief Executive Officer, Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC); and Mr. Charles Odii, Director-General, Small and Medium Enterprises Development Agency of Nigeria (SMEDAN). They were honoured based on their robust and enriching programmes to uplift small and medium scale enterprises. In the category of Banker of the Year, the awardees are Mr Femi Bakre, Managing Director, Parallex Bank; and Mr. Moruf Oseni, Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Wema Bank for their technological innovations in banking, as well as innovation in healthtech, edtech and SME growth respectively. The Nollywood Icon Award winners of the year is Tobi Bakre, while the Sports Personality Award was received by Mr Bukola Olopade, MD/CEO, Nilayo Sports Management Limited, for his consistency in organising Access Bank Lagos International Marathon and other investments in sports. The award winners, in their separate acceptance speeches, thanked The Sun Publishing Limited for the honours, and promised that they would not relent their efforts in giving their best to the causes they believe in. Mr. Peter Obi, who received The Sun Political Icon of the Year award, pleaded that public funds to be used for the public good. Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State appreciated The Sun for the recognition of his administration’s efforts. Also, Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State, a emphasised the transformation of the state into an investor’s destination.
The Gombe State governor, Mohammed Inuwa Yahaya, also dedicated the award to his state’s people. Obi said: “I thank the management of The Sun for this honour. I was the first governor to win The Sun Man of the Year award and when I was told of this one, I didn’t ask any questions. I dedicate this award to all the suffering Nigerians who don’t know where the next meal will come from and Nigerians should pray to God to help the government use public money for public good.” Governor Abiodun equally said: “I want to thank the management of The Sun Newspaper for honouring us with this prestigious award. I am humbled and I do not take it for granted.” Gombe State governor and Chairman, Northern Governors’ Forum, Yahaya, dedicated his award to all the people of his state for the confidence they reposed in him. The award was received on his behalf by his deputy, Dr. Manasseh Daniel, The Ooni of Ife dedicated the award to Nigerian youth, saying the future belongs to the youth.
The happiness of Olu of Warri, who was represented by three traditional rulers was also conveyed to the organisers of The Sun Awards. Dr. Ifeanyi Nwachukwu also expressed elation, as High Chief Peter Obih commended The Sun as one of Nigeria’s greatest media outfits. Archbishop Emeka Agwu dedicated the award to God and his team. Former Minister of State for Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Uche Ogah, dedicated his award to his community. As the ceremony drew to a close, it was clear that The Sun Awards had once again set the bar for excellence in the media landscape.
It was a night to remember, a celebration of achievement and resilience that would be etched in the memories of all who were fortunate enough to witness the well organised programme. Vice President Kashim Shettima, who was represented at the event by Stanley Nkwocha, Senior Special Assistant to The President on Media and Communications (Office of The Vice President), said: “It is with great honour that I stand before you today at The Sun Newspapers Awards, a prestigious event celebrating excellence in Nigerian journalism. I extend my sincere gratitude to the management and staff of The Sun Publishing Limited for inviting me to share this special occasion with you.
“As Vice President, I recognise the vital role the media plays in shaping our nation’s discourse and holding us accountable. You are the watchdogs, the truth-seekers, the voice that informs and empower our citizens. Your dedication to excellence and commitment to the public good are truly commendable. Tonight, we celebrate not just the exceptional work of individual journalists and awardees, but also the collective contribution of the media to Nigeria’s progress.” Chairman of the event and Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, in his remarks, said: “I congratulate The Sun for its consistency in going the extra mile to select some Nigerians and highlight the great things they have done to help in nation-building and development. Looking at the list and the things the awardees have done to merit the honour, I highly commend them.
“The award winners should really be proud of themselves. That a newspaper like The Sun, which is professional in its activities and also very critical of those who have not done well in government and public service, could single them out for recognition, is a great feat. That they have been chosen is an indication that they have done very well in their areas of calling.”
SENATOR AKUME PRESENTING THE MAN OF THE YEAR AWARD TO CHIEF INNOCENT
CHUKWUMA
SENATOR GEORGE AKUME PRESENTING THE MAN OF THE YEAR AWARD TO THE REPRESENTATIVE OF TONY ELUMELU
SENATOR AKUME PRESENTING THE GOVERNOR OF THE YEAR AWARD TO OGUN STATE GOVERNOR, DAPO ABIODUN.
OONI OF IFE, OBA ENITAN OGUNWUSI; ONUOHA UKEH; UCHE OGAH; AND SGF, GEORGE AKUME PRESENTING THE GOVERNOR OF THE YEAR AWARD TO ENUGU STATE GOVERNOR, PETER MBAH. WITH THEM IS STANLEY NKWOCHA, REPRESENTING VICE PRESIDENT KASHIM SHETTIMA, AND cHAIRMAN/PUBLISHER, THE SUN PUBLISHING LIMITED, NEYA KALU
MD/EIC, THE SUN PUBLISHING LIMITED, ONUOHA UKEH; UCHE OGAH AND SENATOR AKUME PRESENTING THE GOVERNOR OF THE YEAR AWARD TO THE REPRESENTATIVE OF GOMBE STATE
GOV, HIS DEPUTY, MANASSAH JATAU
UCHE OGAH (RIGHT) PRESENTING THE POLITICAL ICON OF THE YEAR AWARD TO MR PETER OBI
HON AFOR CHUKWUEGBO PRESENTING THE LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD TO PROF AWA KALU, SAN
GOV. PETER MBAH (LEFT) PRESENTING THE MOST IMPACTFUL ROYAL FATHER OF THE YEAR AWARD to CHIEF KOFI KARTEY, REPRESENTATIVE OF HIS MAJESTY OGIAME ATUWATSE III, OLU OF WARRI.
CHARLES ODII (RIGHT) RECEIVING PUBLIC SERVICE AWARD FROM MD FERMA, CHUKWUEMEKA AGBASI
PROF OBIORA OKONKWO PRESENTING BUSINESSMAN OF THE YEAR AWARD TO DR IFEANYI
NWACHUKWU
CHIEF ALEX DUDUYEMI, NEYA KALU, AND SENATOR GEORGE AKUME PRESENTING THE MOST IMPACTFUL ROYAL FATHER OF THE YEAR AWARD TO OONI OF IFE, OBA ADEYEYE OGUNWUSI. WITH THEM IS OGUN STATE GOVERNOR, DAPO ABIODUN
UCHE OGAH (M) PRESENTING THE FIRST LADY OF THE YEAR AWARD TO OLUFOLAKE ABDULRAZAQ. THEY ARE FLANKED BY OGUN STATE GOV. DAPO ABIODUN AND ENUGU STATE GOV, PETER MBAH..
FEMI BAKRE RECEIVING NOLLYWOOD ICON OF THE YEAR ON BEHALF OF HIS SON, TOBI BAKRE FROM LADY ADAORA CHUKWUDOZIE
BUKOLA OLOPADE RECEIVING SPORTS PERSONALITY OF THE YEAR AWARD FROM GOMBE STATE DEPUTY GOVERNOR, MANASSAH DANIEL JATAU
CHUKWUEMEKA AGBASI PRESENTING THE PUBLIC SERVICE AWARD TO GBENGA KOMOLAFE
CHUKWUEMEKA AGBASI PRESENTING THE PUBLIC SERVICE AWARD TO ROBERT AZIBAOLA
EMEKA AGWU RECEIVING HUMANITARIAN SERVICE ICON AWARD FROM NKECHI OKOCHA
GOMBE STATE DEPUTY GOVERNOR PRESENTING THE COURAGE IN LEADERSHIP AWARD TO
REPRESENTATIVE OF CHIEF GOVERNMENT EKPEMUPOLO (TOMPOLO)
FESTUS MBISIOGU PRESENTING THE SUN INDUSTRIALIST OF THE YEAR AWARD TO CHIEF JAMES UZUH (RIGHT)
LADY ADAORA CHUKWUDOZIE PRESENTING THE NOLLYWOOD ICON OF THE YEAR AWARD TO NGOZI EZEONU
IKENNA OKAFOR (RIGHT) RECEIVING THE HUMANITARIAN SERVICE ICON AWARD FROM MRS NNEOMA NKECHI OKOROCHA
MR AYO AMINU PRESENTING THE INVESTOR OF THE YEAR TO MRS JANE ONWUMERE AND HER
HUSBAND
MR AYO AMINU PRESENTING THE INVESTOR OF THE YEAR AWARD TO CHRIS NDUBUISI
DR OLUDARE AKANDE AND HIS WIFE RECEIVING INVESTOR OF THE YEAR AWARD
MR ERIC OSAGIE PRESENTING THE BANKER OF THE YEAR AWARD TO FEMI BAKRE OF PARALEX
BANK
MR ERIC OSAGIE PRESENTING THE BANKER OF THE YEAR AWARD TO REPRESENTATIVE OF YUSUF OSENI OF WEMA BANK
FESTUS MBISIOGU PRESENTING THE INDUSTRIALIST OF THE YEAR AWARD TO REPRESENTATIVE OF
CELESTINE EBUBEOGU
DR UCHE OGAH RECEIVING HIS INDUSTRIALIST OF THE YEAR AWARD FROM FESTUS MBISIOGU
MRS NKECHI OKOROCHA (RIGHT) PRESENTING THE HUMANITARIAN SERVICE ICON AWARD TO REPRESENTATIVE OF LADY ADAORA UMEOJI
PROF OBIORA OKONKWO PRESENTING THE BUSINESSMAN OF THE YEAR AWARD TO CHIEF PETER OBIH
SAM LOCO SMITH RECEIVING THE LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD ON BEHALF OF REV UMA UKPAI FROM HON AFOR CHUKWUEGBU
CHIEF KENNETH IFEKUDU (MIDDLE) RECEIVING THE BUSINESSMAN OF THE YEAR
AWARD FROM PROF OBIORA OKONKWO