Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has been honored as the Best Woman of the Year at the Independent Awards 2024, dedicating the award to Nigerian women and youths for their unwavering contributions to national development.
At the awards gala, held on Saturday in Lagos, Tinubuwho previously represented Lagos Central in the Senate was represented by Fatima Tajudeen, wife of the Speaker of the House of Representatives.
Dedicating the award to women and youths across the country, she described them as “Nigeria’s unsung heroes” whose efforts continue to shape the nation’s future.
The Independent Newspaper Awards celebrate excellence across various sectors, including politics, entertainment, business, and education.
“I receive this prestigious award with deep appreciation,” Tinubu said in her acceptance speech. “This award will inspire me further to contribute my quota to national development.”
Meanwhile, a key figure of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the South-West, Chief Olabode George, used the event to call on President Bola Tinubu to intervene in the ongoing Rivers State crisis, warning that failure to address the situation could lead to national instability.
George, who served as the event’s chairman, emphasized the economic importance of Rivers State and urged swift action to prevent further unrest.
“Everyone is leaving here with a smile, which we want the government to bring to Nigerians,” he remarked. “Who is truly happy now in Nigeria?”
He also reflected on the upcoming 2027 elections, stating: “My party is preparing to take over in 2027. The question for voters is: Are you better off now than before?”
This year’s Independent Awards recognized 36 individuals, organizations, and government officials for their contributions to Nigeria’s growth.
Among the notable awardees are Governor Seyi Makinde who won Independent Man of the Year Chief Bisi Akande won the Lifetime Achievement Award 2024, Anambra Governor Charles Soludo also won the Governor of the Year under Urban Renewal.
Also, Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River won Governor of the Year under Economic Transformation, Governor Abdullahi Sule from Nasarawa got the Governor of the Year under Solid Minerals Development, Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo was also recognized for his contributions
In the entertainment sector, popular comedian and content creator Bukunmi Adeaga-Ilori, widely known as Kiekie, was named Social Media Influencer of the Year for her significant impact on digital media.
Business mogul Otunba Mike Adenuga, Chairman of Globacom, was also honored, alongside Charles Odi (Director General, SMEDAN) and Prof. Abayomi Fasina (Vice Chancellor, FUOYE).
The event celebrated the outstanding achievements of individuals shaping Nigeria’s future across various industries.