CBN’s Hakama Sidi-Ali Wins Outstanding Spokesperson Award for Second Consecutive Year
By Patience Ikpeme
Hakama Sidi-Ali, Director of Corporate Communications at the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), has been named the Outstanding Spokesperson (Banking Sector) at the 2025 National Spokespersons Awards, marking her second consecutive win in the category.
The ceremony, which took place at the Abuja Intercontinental Hotel, served as the grand finale of the 2025 National Spokespersons’ Summit. It was organised by the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) in partnership with Image Merchants Promotion Limited (IMPR), publishers of PRNigeria and Spokespersons Digest.
Sidi-Ali was recognised for her effective communication efforts in strengthening public understanding of CBN policies, as well as her instrumental role in addressing misinformation surrounding the alleged introduction of N5,000 and N10,000 banknotes—a move that helped ease public anxiety and preserve financial market calm.
Her performance during Nigeria’s recent negotiations with the United States on new tariffs was also cited as an example of her capability in navigating complex issues and articulating the CBN’s position with clarity and diplomacy on the international stage.
Speaking at the event, NIPR President Dr. Ike Neliaku and Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Media and Public Affairs, Hon. Rotimi Akintunde Jr., praised Sidi-Ali and other awardees for setting a standard in public communication. They urged the recipients to continue embodying the qualities that brought them national attention.
Now in its fifth edition, the National Spokespersons Awards—formerly known as the Spokespersons’ Communication Awards (SCA)—celebrate innovation, credibility, and professionalism in public communication across both public and private sectors.
This year’s edition featured over 20 award categories spanning various industries, including health, marine, hospitality, power, insurance, and crisis management. The event drew attention to the growing influence of public relations in driving institutional credibility and strengthening democratic governance.
Also honoured at the event was Olufemi Soneye of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), who received the Distinguished Spokesperson (Oil and Gas) award.
Chairman of the Planning Committee, Segun McMedal, congratulated both winners and nominees for their contributions to national dialogue and for reinforcing public trust through their communication roles. He called on all professional communicators to stay committed to principles of transparency, accountability, and ethical standards.
Among dignitaries present were former Ministers of Information Frank Nweke Jr., Lai Mohammed, Jerry Gana, Labaran Maku, and the current Minister, Alhaji Mohammed Idris. The summit also featured panel discussions and keynote addresses led by prominent figures such as former Ogun State Governor Chief Segun Osoba and fiscal policy expert Prof. Taiwo Oyedele.
The awards continue to serve as a national benchmark for excellence in spokespersonship and strategic communication.
