By Nnasom David

The Senior Manager, Safety Standards Development and Coordination at the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), Mr. Celestine Chijioke Obi, has received the Excellent Leadership Award in Occupational Health and Safety at the National Excellent Leadership Award (NELA 0326).

The ceremony, held at the STP Apartments Congress Hall, brought together leaders and professionals across sectors to recognise contributions to development and leadership in Africa.

NELA 0326 is organised by The Professional Public Speaking and Leadership Academy (PPSLA AFRICA) in collaboration with The African Award Group (AAG).

Declaring the event open, the Director-General of PPSLA AFRICA, Dr. Lotanna Okoye, called for transformational and accountable leadership.

In his keynote address, Dr. Aloefuna Ekenechukwu urged professionals to prioritise transparency, integrity and results.

Other awardees included Dr. Chika C.C. Ukachukwu, Dr. David Odeta, Chidera Onyemenam and Dr. Nwadiuto C. Ojielo.

Mr. Obi was recognised for his contributions to occupational health and safety, spanning over two decades across the ICT, nuclear and petroleum sectors. Organisers said his work in developing safety standards within Nigeria’s upstream oil and gas industry has helped protect lives and critical assets.