Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has congratulated distinguished Nigerians who were honoured at the 2025 edition of the Hallmarks of Labour Foundation (HLF) Role Model Awards, held on Saturday at the Lagos Oriental Hotel, Victoria Island.
The award ceremony, which marked the Foundation’s 28th anniversary, brought together notable personalities from across the country to celebrate individuals recognized for their exceptional contributions to national development, professionalism, and ethical leadership.
Governor Sanwo-Olu, who attended the event as the Special Guest of Honour, commended the awardees for their dedication to service, integrity, and positive impact on society. He said the honourees have distinguished themselves in their various fields and serve as role models to the younger generation.
Among those honoured was retired General Theophilus Yakubu Danjuma, who received the HLF Lifetime Achievement Award for Philanthropy and Charity. The award acknowledged his sustained humanitarian efforts through the TY Danjuma Foundation, particularly in supporting healthcare, education, and social welfare programmes across Nigeria.
The publisher of Premium Times, Mr. Dapo Olorunyomi, was conferred with the HLF-Christopher Kolade Award for Excellence in Leadership and Professionalism in the Media. He was celebrated for his commitment to investigative journalism, media transparency, and his role in strengthening democracy through responsible journalism.
Others honoured include the Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations, Amina Mohammed, who received the HLF-Emeka Anyaoku Lifetime Achievement Award as Nigeria’s Outstanding International Icon. The event also recognised Professor Olufunmilayo Adebambo for her achievements in Animal Breeding and Genetics, Professor Abdullahi Ribadu for Veterinary Education and Reproductive Medicine, and former Attorney-General of the Federation, Chief Akinlolu Olujinmi (SAN), for Distinguished Public Service in Law and Governance.
The event was chaired by former Commonwealth Secretary-General, Chief Emeka Anyaoku, and had Dr. Christopher Kolade, CON, as host. Both elder statesmen praised the Foundation’s efforts in recognising excellence and called for continuous promotion of ethical leadership and hard work among Nigerians.
Speaking on the sidelines of the event, Governor Sanwo-Olu noted that celebrating individuals who uphold integrity and contribute meaningfully to society is necessary for building a more progressive and responsible nation. He stressed that his administration remains committed to supporting initiatives that promote merit, service, and professionalism.
The Hallmarks of Labour Awards, instituted in 1996, continues to identify and celebrate Nigerians who, through hard work and honest labour, have distinguished themselves and contributed significantly to national growth.
