Aliko Dangote Honored with Lifetime Achievement Award at NECA’s Annual Excellence Awards
By Patience Ikpeme
In a resounding affirmation of outstanding achievement, Aliko Dangote, Africa’s eminent entrepreneur and philanthropist, has been lauded with a prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award for the second consecutive year by the Organised Private Sector employers, convened under the auspices of Nigeria Employers Consultative Association (NECA).
At the illustrious 2022 Employers Annual Excellence Award ceremony held at Lagos’ Eko Hotel, the Dangote Group, a Pan-African conglomerate, claimed top honors in the ‘Resilience and Sustainable Growth’ category. Dangote Cement PLC, a subsidiary, was also lauded as the “Best Company in the Chemical and Non-Metallic Products Sector,” further bolstering the Group’s exceptional performance.
The event witnessed the Dangote Group receiving a special Plaque for their sponsorship of the 3rd edition of the NECA 2022 Annual Employers’ Excellence Award, continuing their legacy of recognition after securing the best company title in the same sector during the 2021 edition.
Chief Olusegun Osunkeye, former Chairman of Nestle Nigeria Plc., was equally honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award, adding to the distinguished roster of personalities celebrated at the event.
Amidst a gathering of esteemed personalities, the Lifetime Achievement Award, bestowed upon the Dangote Group President, was received by a high-ranking management team led by Group Executive Director Mr. Devakumar Edwin, Group Chief Human Resources Officer Nglan Niat, and Director of Human Assets Management at Dangote Projects, Mr. Fola Ali. Additional accolades were received by Mr. Edwin and Mrs. Adeola Oyetan, Head of Talent Management at Dangote Cement Plc.
Mazi Sam Ohuabunwa, former President of NECA and industrialist, in his tribute to Aliko Dangote, hailed the business magnate’s remarkable contributions, stating, “Dangote’s name stands as a symbol of exemplary work, surpassing mere accolades.”
Addressing the audience, Mr. Edwin lauded NECA for its commitment to promoting leadership, innovation, and corporate performance, emphasizing Mr. Dangote’s appreciation for the award’s recognition from such a distinguished organization.
NECA President, Mr. Taiwo Adeniyi, highlighted the significance of resilience amidst challenging business environments, expressing the Awards’ purpose to celebrate perseverance and excellence in corporate practices across various sectors.
The ceremony, graced by Minister of Labour and Employment Simon Lalong, witnessed recognition for various organizations including Nigeria Bottling Company, MTN, TGI Group, Nestle, Julius Berger, and NLNG, underscoring a collective commitment to excellence and sustainable growth in Nigeria’s private sector.
