Vanguard Awards: Nigeria needs integrity, hard work to thrive — Ajumogobia, Anaba

Anaba

By Juliet Umeh

Nigerian lawyer and former minister, Mr. Henry Ajumogobia, and Editor of Vanguard, Mr. Eze Anaba, have emphasised the need to uphold integrity, resilience and hard work as Nigeria navigates complex socio-economic challenges.

Speaking as Chairman of the occasion at the 2025 Vanguard Personality of the Year Awards, held in Lagos, Ajumogobia said the event remains a platform for recognising individuals whose contributions have shaped society and influenced the country’s trajectory.

He said: “It is my great privilege and pleasure to welcome you all to the Vanguard Personality of the Year Awards. Tonight, we gather to recognise individuals whose contributions have in diverse ways shaped our society and influenced the course of our national life.”

He described Nigeria as a nation of immense strength but also one confronted with deep contradictions, where talent and ambition abound but are not always adequately rewarded.

“Nigeria, with all its challenges, remains a nation of immense strength, but also of deep complexity and hardship. It is a place where talent abounds, but it is not always identified or acknowledged; where ambition thrives, but is not always realised, and where resilience is tested every day,” Ajumogobia noted.

According to him, despite systemic challenges and the temptation to cut corners, many Nigerians continue to distinguish themselves through diligence, innovation and purposeful leadership.

“It is within this environment that we see remarkable examples of men and women who, despite the odds, choose the path of hard work, build, create and lead with a sense of purpose. Tonight, we acknowledge some of those journeys,” he added.

Ajumogobia further stated that the awards not only celebrate achievements but also reflect the realities of leadership, noting that success must be anchored on integrity and accountability.

“This evening is not just about recognition; it is about reaffirming the values that make societies thrive, where hard work and integrity are not optional, where accountability is upheld, and where success is measured not only by outcomes but by the process,” he said.

Also speaking, Editor of Vanguard, Mr. Eze Anaba, said the awards celebrate individuals whose vision and resilience have driven growth and inspired others despite prevailing challenges.

“Tonight, we are not merely conferring awards; we are celebrating individuals whose vision, resilience and hard work have built industries, driven economic growth and continue to inspire,” Anaba said.

He noted that the selection process for the awards remains rigorous, involving weeks of screening to ensure that only deserving candidates emerge.

“One of the greatest challenges faced by the Board of Editors is the rigorous process of nomination, selection and screening, which can take up to 12 weeks. This ensures that only the most deserving individuals are honoured,” he explained.

Anaba added that the awardees represent a cross-section of leaders, entrepreneurs and lifetime achievers who have made significant contributions to national development.

“These are individuals who have defied the odds. Their stories remind us that greatness can be achieved through dedication, discipline and commitment,” he said.

He urged Nigerians to draw inspiration from the honourees, noting that their achievements demonstrate the potential for impactful contributions across different sectors.

“At a time when the country faces significant challenges, tonight’s awardees stand as shining examples that true inspiration is all around us. Their achievements remind us that each of us has the potential to make a meaningful impact,” he added.

Both speakers reiterated the importance of sustaining a culture of excellence while demanding accountability and higher standards in leadership and nation-building.

The Vanguard Personality of the Year Awards is one of Nigeria’s most prestigious platforms for recognising outstanding individuals across various sectors.