By Matthew Johnson

More than 50 women described as “trailblazers and torchbearers” have been honoured by Bukber Communications for their contributions to humanity, mentorship and community development.

The recognition took place during an award ceremony and women empowerment and leadership event organised by the media outfit, where speakers emphasised the importance of purposeful leadership, mentorship, integrity and community service among women and youths.

Speaking at the event, the CEO Bukber Communications, Dr. Omotola Bukola, said the awards were strictly merit-based and designed to celebrate women who had transformed lives through empowerment and encouragement.
According to her, the awardees had restored hope to many people through selfless service and commitment to society.

“This event is about impacting women. We are celebrating women who have made life meaningful for others, women who have empowered people and helped them rediscover purpose,” she said.
“The awards were purely on merit. Some of the awardees are young, some are middle-aged, while others are elderly women who are still making significant impacts in society.”

Bukola, however, expressed concern over what she described as the growing obsession with “free money” among young people, urging youths to embrace hard work, discipline and mentorship.
“Most young people today want quick money without working for it. They must learn to work hard and attach themselves to people of value and integrity if they want to succeed in life,” she added.

Also speaking, the Executive Chairman of Badagry Local Government, Babatunde Hunpe, represented by Adagba Benjamin, called on Nigerians, particularly women and youths, to become agents of positive change and purposeful leadership.
He commended teachers and professionals for their roles in shaping society, stressing that leadership should inspire future generations positively.

“We must be people of impact. Wherever you have worked or wherever you are still working, let people feel your impact. God created everyone for a purpose and we must be purposeful in everything we do,” he said.

“We are talking about leadership and reconciliation. As women leaders, you must emulate humility so others can learn from you and follow your example.”
The organisers also urged women leaders to go beyond personal success by intentionally mentoring younger generations, noting that leadership becomes incomplete when successful individuals fail to raise others.

According to them, integrity, mentorship and collaboration remain essential tools for nation-building.
“The next generation should not start from where you started; they should start from where you stopped. Leadership is like a relay race; if the baton is not passed properly, the team loses,” one of the organisers said.

“Many people are visible but not accessible. Leadership multiplies when we intentionally create opportunities, guide others and pass on knowledge. It is not enough to rise alone. If all we do is succeed without raising others, then our leadership is incomplete. True leadership must reproduce itself.”

Among the award recipients was Esther Onyegbula of Vanguard Media, who was recognised for her contributions to journalism, media strategy, reputation management and communications advisory for organisations and institutions.
Other awardees included Professor Gbemisola Morounke Saibu for contributions to biochemistry and cancer research; Major Dorcas Onuwa Ekpenisi for leadership in military engineering; and Kehinde Charity Awujoola for youth leadership and gender advocacy.

Others honoured were Caroline Aderonke Kuwayenu for education and personal development, Deborah Jesuyon Hunge for cultural promotion through fashion, Folashade Peter Kumayon Ajose for grassroots development, and Elizabeth Hunpe for women-focused welfare and community service.
Shortly after receiving her award, Onyegbula described the recognition as humbling and a strong affirmation of her professional journey, adding that the nomination process made the honour even more meaningful.
“What makes this recognition even more special is how I was nominated,” she said.

According to her, curiosity and humility prompted her to contact Bukber Communications to inquire about the nomination, a move that led to an unexpected revelation.
“Their response left me speechless,” she said.

She explained that the organisers informed her that she had been nominated by colleagues and stakeholders across multiple industries, with strong mentions in the print media category.
“They said colleagues across different industries nominated me, and in print media alone, more than 10 people mentioned my name,” she said.

Onyegbula said the revelation reinforced her belief in consistency, integrity and hard work.
“Hearing this reminded me that consistency and grace never go unnoticed,” she added.
She dedicated the award to God, whom she described as the foundation of her journey, while also appreciating her husband for his unwavering support.

“To my husband, thank you for giving me the wings to fly. Your love and belief in me mean more than words can express,” she said.
She also dedicated the recognition to her children, Gideon and Gaius, for their patience and understanding.
“To my adorable generals, this is for you. Thank you for sharing me with my work,” she added.

Onyegbula further expressed appreciation to Bukber Communications for the recognition, while paying tribute to Vanguard Media for its role in nurturing her journalism career.

“To Vanguard Media for grooming me, nurturing my career, and consistently providing me with the platform to grow, I remain deeply grateful,” she said.