By Chioma Onuegbu, Uyo

Former Akwa Ibom State Governor, Mr. Udom Emmanuel, was celebrated as the 2024 Man of the Year at the sixth edition of the Leadership Excellence Awards (LEEX).

The prestigious event, held over the weekend at the Nigerian Air Force Base Banquet Hall in Abuja, honored Emmanuel for his impactful leadership and contributions to Akwa Ibom State and Nigeria as a whole.

Emmanuel, who was among 43 Nigerian leaders voted as winners in a nationwide poll conducted in September, was recognized alongside other notable Nigerians at the awards ceremony.

In a statement released in Uyo, the organizers of the event described Emmanuel as a visionary leader who left a lasting legacy in Akwa Ibom, highlighting his emphasis on peace, security, and creating an environment conducive to business and tourism. They commended his efforts in expanding the state’s industrial and economic base, making Akwa Ibom a model for sustainable development.

The award was received on Emmanuel’s behalf by Rt. Hon. Ime Okon, the member representing Itu/Ibiono federal constituency in the House of Representatives. Okon expressed gratitude to the organizers, noting that Emmanuel remains committed to the development of Nigeria, whether in public or private roles.

The event’s keynote speaker, former Ogun State Governor Chief Olusegun Osoba, represented by Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media, Tunde Rahman, congratulated the award winners and praised the organizers for acknowledging the achievements of exemplary leaders. Osoba urged Nigerian leaders to exhibit tenacity and patriotism to inspire recognition and celebration.

Publisher of Igbere TV, Mr. James Emeh, stated that the 6th edition of LEEX aimed to “recognize outstanding individuals and celebrate the spirit of leadership that drives positive change, inspires hope, and builds bridges in our communities and beyond.” He emphasized that the awards honor leaders who embody integrity, innovation, and a strong commitment to service.

The ceremony also celebrated other distinguished individuals, including former Minister of Transportation Rotimi Amaechi, who received a Lifetime Achievement Award in Public Service; Hon. Emmanuel Ukpong Udo, named House of Representatives Member of the Year; and Dr. Yetunde Adeniji, Senior Special Assistant to the President on School Feeding Programme, recognized as Social Welfare Icon of the Year. Veteran broadcaster Cyril Stober and screen legend Patience Ozokwor were also honored with Lifetime Achievement Awards in journalism and entertainment, respectively.

Former media aides to Emmanuel, Dr. Essien Ndueso and Engr. Solomon Eyo, expressed pride in the former governor’s accomplishments and voiced optimism that the award would inspire him to continue serving the people of Akwa Ibom and beyond.