Nigeria’s leading figures across governance, business, energy, and industry were on Friday night celebrated at the Vanguard Awards, where distinguished personalities were honoured as Icons of the Year for their outstanding contributions to national development.

The ceremony brought together policymakers, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders in a night that spotlighted excellence, innovation, and service across key sectors of the economy.

Among the honourees were Festus Keyamo, SAN, CON, FCIArb, Dr. Stephen Akintayo, Engineer Bashir Bayo Ojulari, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, Mrs. Vicky Haastrup, Ahonsi Unuigbe, Oluwatobi Ajayi, Saliim Adegunwa, Dr. Iroghama Ogbeifu, Deacon Chris Iyovwaye, Chief Victor Wayles Egukawhore, Solomon Ewanehi, Archbishop Nzekwesi, Chijioke Ezeugwu, Osahon Okubor, and Alfred Temile, who were all recognised for excellence across their respective sectors.

The awards spotlighted individuals driving progress in aviation reform, energy transformation, industrial growth, women empowerment, logistics innovation, real estate development, and grassroots governance, reflecting a broad spectrum of national development priorities.

Top political figures were also recognised, including Alhaji Sayyu Idris Dantata, Founder of MRS Holdings, and Minister of Interior, Hon. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, for their contributions to the energy sector and public service respectively.

Governors Uba Sani (Kaduna), Nasir Idris (Kebbi), Mai Mala Buni (Yobe), Bassey Otu (Cross River), Agbu Kefas (Taraba), and Dauda Lawal (Zamfara) were also honoured for leadership and governance excellence across their states.

Vanguard News