It was a day of glory for out-going Anambra State Governor, Mr. Peter Obi, as he stepped out yesterday in Lagos to receive the 2013 Silverbird “Man of the Year” Award. Obi jointly won the award with Governor Babatunde Raji Fashola of and Lagos State for the uncommon development of their states and introducing new norms in governance.

According to Silverbird group, “Gov. Obi has embarked on integrated development of his state, with a holistic approach developing all sectors simultaneously. He has brought his private sector experience to bear on the development process in Anambra.”

Speaking on Gov. Peter Obi and Raji Fashola, the Chairman of Silverbird Group, Ben Murray-Bruce said all those that were honoured were exemplary Nigerians. He said that governors Obi and Fashola were humility exemplified. Murray-Bruce said he was usually amazed when he met Gov. Obi in airports using the popular side and queuing up just like other Nigerians. He also said that in a country mad in love with sirens, that he was fascinated that both governors do not use sirens.

Speaking at the occasion, Gov. Obi thanked Silverbird group for the award. He said it was a challenge to him and fellow awardees to keep on working for the good of the society and advancement of the society. Describing the award as genuine, he said that with himself and Fashola winning awards, Nigerians should rest assured that it was not bought.

In all, nine persons who have distinguished themselves in different parts of life were honoured at the occasion.

Among the other awardees is President Paul Kageme of the Republic of Rwanda, who received an “Award of Distinction” in recognition of his leadership in peace building and reconciliation, development, good governance, promotion of human rights and women empowerment, and advancement of education and ICT. He was represented by the country’s Ambassador to Nigeria.

Lifetime achievement awards for excelling in their fields went to Chief Joop Berkhout for his giant strides in publishing; Dr. Tunji Braithwate for his strides both in legal and political fields; Dr. Chinweizu for his afrocentricisms and uncompromising stance against colonial influences on original African thought.

Special Achievement Award was bestowed on Stephen Keshi for his technical depth that has enabled him record strings of victory with many clubs and teams he has coached.

President Ernest Bia Koroma of Sierra Leone was also honoured for his contributions in the rebuilding of his country. The country’s Ambassador to Nigeria received his award on his behalf.

Past Silverbird awardees are: Prof. Dora Akunyili, Mallam Nasir El Rufai, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, HE, Adams Oshiomhole, Chief Mike Adenuga, , Mallam Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, HE, Godswill Akpabio, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala.

•Photo shows Gov. Peter Obi (1st left), with wife Margaret( 2nd left), receiving Silverbird “Man of the Year, 2013”, Award from the former Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mr. Odeon Ajumogobia (1st right) yesterday at the Muson Centre, Onikan, Lagos, with the Chairman of Silverbird, Ben Murray-Bruce(2nd right) watching happily.

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