Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, Comrade Issa Aremu Honored at ThisNigeria Golden Awards

Kano State Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf and veteran labour leader Comrade Issa Aremu were recently recognised at the 2024 Annual Lecture by This Nigeria Newspaper. The event celebrated 25 years of continuous democratic governance.

Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf received the Most Courageous Governor of the Year Award for exceptional leadership in Nigeria’s most populous state. Despite legal and political challenges, his resilience and grace stood out.

Comrade Issa Aremu, the Director General of the Michael Imoudu National Institute for Labour Studies (MINILS) was honoured with the Gold Prize in Public Service. His remarkable achievements at MINILS and consistent excellence over the years contributed to this recognition.

Other notable figures were also honoured, including Mr. Nyesom Ezenwo Wike (Minister of the Federal Capital Territory), Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State, Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom, Professor Ishaq Oloyede (JAMB Registrar/CEO), Professor Mahmoud Yakubu (Chairman of INEC), and Special Financial Investigator Mr. Jim Obazee.

In his keynote address, former Head of State Gen. Abdulsalami Abubakar (retd) underscored the need for collective efforts to sustain democracy in Nigeria. He highlighted critical areas such as electoral integrity, human rights, economic development, and social justice. Abubakar acknowledged Nigeria’s resilience despite challenges and urged a united front to strengthen democratic institutions.

The media’s role in holding leaders accountable and championing free and fair journalism was also commended. Abubakar expressed optimism about Nigeria’s next 25 years, emphasising the importance of sustaining democracy through continued vigilance.