By Ebunoluwa Sessou

The Association of Esan Professionals, AEP, has conferred its prestigious Purposeful Leadership and Community Commitment Award on Dr. Patrick Usiahon Ejedawe, Chairman of Patjeda Group of Companies Limited, in recognition of his professional excellence and contributions to the security and development of Esan land.

The award was presented at a ceremony held on Sunday, December 21, 2025, at the MUSON Centre, Lagos Island.

Speaking at the event, AEP President, Dr. Henry Egbiki, said the honour was a clear acknowledgement of Dr. Ejedawe’s outstanding achievements, visionary leadership and sustained commitment to community advancement.

He described Ejedawe as a model of purpose-driven leadership whose career reflects discipline, innovation, resilience and a deep sense of responsibility to both community and nation.

“This recognition is reserved for individuals whose impact transcends personal success and translates into measurable community advancement,” Egbiki said.

According to him, Ejedawe’s leadership at Patjeda Group of Companies Limited has not only created jobs and economic value, but has also strengthened security architecture and supported sustainable development initiatives that benefit Esan land and Edo State at large.

In an award citation signed by the Media and Strategic Communications Unit of Patjeda Group, Lagos, the association stated: “This award is in recognition and appreciation of his outstanding achievements in his professional career and his invaluable contributions to the security development of Esan land as a worthy Esan son.”

The ceremony, which drew Esan professionals and stakeholders from across the country, was described as a celebration of Esan excellence, unity and progressive leadership.

Responding, Dr. Ejedawe expressed gratitude to the Association of Esan Professionals and reaffirmed his commitment to ethical leadership, inclusive growth and continued service to humanity.

He dedicated the award to the Esan people, stressing that true leadership is not defined by titles but by the ability to create lasting value, inspire others and uplift society.

The event also underscored the continued contributions of the Esan people, a major ethnic group in Edo State, to Nigeria’s socio-economic development across various sectors.

Organisers said the award reaffirmed AEP’s resolve to identify, celebrate and project Esan professionals who exemplify excellence, integrity and transformational leadership.

The award plaque presented to Dr. Ejedawe was described as a symbol of honour, communal pride and a shared belief that leadership anchored on purpose, service and vision remains key to sustainable development.