The prestigious Champion Newspapers Annual Awards 2024 was held on Saturday, May 25, 2024, at Eko Hotel & Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos, bringing together distinguished leaders, captains of industry, public servants, and accomplished professionals from across Nigeria to celebrate excellence, leadership, and national development.
The event reaffirmed Champion Newspapers’ longstanding tradition of recognizing individuals and organizations whose exceptional contributions continue to shape the nation’s progress across various sectors.
A Gathering of Distinguished Personalities
The ceremony was hosted by Dr. (Mrs.) Nwadiuto Iheakanwa, Group Managing Director and Editor-in-Chief of Champion Newspapers Limited, alongside her husband, Pastor Uche Iheakanwa.
Chairing the event was Brigadier General Mohammed Buba Marwa (Rtd.), Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), whose presence added prestige to the occasion.
Among the dignitaries in attendance were:
- Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo of Anambra State, represented by Deputy Governor Dr. Gilbert Onyekachukwu Ibezim.
- Governor Babagana Umara Zulum of Borno State, represented by Deputy Governor Umar Usman Kadafur.
- Governor Pastor Umo Bassey Eno of Akwa Ibom State, represented by the Commissioner for Information.
- Former Cross River State Governor Donald Duke.
- Hon. Dr. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM).
- Senator Osita Izunaso.
- Several top government officials, business executives, diplomats, and industry leaders.
Celebrating Excellence and National Development
The event commenced with the Nigerian National Anthem and an opening prayer led by Pastor Uche Iheakanwa.
In her welcome address, Dr. (Mrs.) Nwadiuto Iheakanwa described the awards as a celebration of individuals and institutions whose commitment, resilience, and sacrifices continue to inspire hope and national development.
She emphasized that the awards were designed not only to recognize excellence but also to encourage Nigerians to remain committed to building a stronger nation.
Chairman’s Address
Delivering his opening remarks, Brigadier General Mohammed Buba Marwa (Rtd.) praised Champion Newspapers for maintaining credibility and integrity throughout its decades of service to journalism.
He noted that the selection process for the awards was rigorous and transparent, ensuring that every recipient truly deserved the honour.
Marwa also used the opportunity to speak on the growing challenge of drug abuse in Nigeria, calling on parents to lead by example and take greater responsibility in raising responsible children.
Entertainment
Guests were treated to an energetic cultural performance by the African Image Concept Dance Troupe, adding colour and excitement to the evening before the award presentations began.
Award Highlights
The evening recognized outstanding achievements across governance, business, public service, finance, aviation, manufacturing, media, and philanthropy.
Notable award recipients included:
- Governor Umo Bassey Eno – Face of Democracy Award
- Chief Diana Chen (CIG Motors) – Auto Company of the Year
- Hon. Dr. Abike Dabiri-Erewa – Excellence in Service Award
- Blessing Aguru – Heart of Gold Award
- Eddie Efekoha (Consolidated Hallmark Insurance Plc) – Insurance CEO of the Year
- Rear Admiral Dr. Kashim Musa Buhari – Most Outstanding Public Servant
- Dr. Lars Richter (Julius Berger Nigeria Plc) – Excellence in Corporate CSR
- Rasheed Bolarinwa (Polaris Bank) – Media Manager of the Year
- Lady Ada Chukwudozie – Most Outstanding Icon of the Year
- Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo – Governor of the Year
- Senator Osita Izunaso – Senator of the Year
- Captain Chris Ona Najomo – Aviation Pillar of the Year
- Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) – Most Outstanding Government Agency
- Oliver Alawuba (United Bank for Africa) – Man of the Year
- Peter Obi – Most Impactful Politician of the Fourth Republic
- Barr. Mrs. Catherine Uju Ifejika (Britannia-U Nigeria Ltd.) – Most Outstanding Corporate Leader of the Year
Each recipient expressed gratitude while reaffirming their commitment to excellence, service, and national development.
A Night of Recognition and Inspiration
The 2024 Champion Newspapers Annual Awards once again demonstrated the organization’s commitment to honouring excellence, integrity, innovation, and impactful leadership.
As the evening drew to a close, guests departed inspired by the achievements of the award recipients and encouraged to continue contributing positively to Nigeria’s growth.
The ceremony remains a testament to Champion Newspapers’ enduring mission of celebrating those whose dedication continues to make a lasting impact on society.
