The Traffic

Tinubu Honoured with Lifetime African Achievement Award at Grand Ceremony in Ghana

By Achimi Muktar

In a dazzling celebration of excellence and pan-African impact, Nigeria’s President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has been awarded the prestigious Lifetime African Achievement Prize during the 25th anniversary of the Millennium Excellence Awards held in Kumasi, Ghana.

The Nigerian leader, represented at the high-profile event by Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, joins a league of Africa’s most celebrated icons—including the late Archbishop Desmond Tutu, Nobel laureate Prof. Wole Soyinka, South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa, and billionaire philanthropist Dr. Mo Ibrahim.

The award, according to organisers, honours leaders whose work and life have significantly shaped Africa's progress and inspired generations across the continent. Tinubu, while expressing gratitude in a speech delivered by Odumegwu-Ojukwu, praised the visionaries behind the Foundation and lauded its unwavering commitment to promoting values of honour, integrity, and service.

“I salute the visionaries who have nurtured this institution for a quarter of a century,” Tinubu said. “This recognition is not just for me, but for every African striving to make a difference.”

He used the occasion to issue a rallying call to Africa’s youth, urging them to rise boldly and contribute to the continent’s future across key sectors including science, technology, governance, entrepreneurship, and the arts.

“The time has come for young Africans to lead the charge for a more united, peaceful, and prosperous Africa,” Tinubu added.

Odumegwu-Ojukwu, who attended as special guest of honour, also received special recognition during the event. The Millennium Excellence Awards, first launched in 1988, have become a symbol of continental pride, shining a spotlight on trailblazers committed to Africa’s development.

Other notable honourees at the event include:

Dr. Benedict Oramah, President/Chairman of the African Export-Import Bank (AFREXIM), who received the Global Intra-African Trade Excellence Award

Pastor Umo Eno, Governor of Akwa Ibom State, honoured for Governance and Public Service

Alhaji AbdulSamad Rabiu, Founder/Chairman of BUA Group, awarded for African Excellence in Business

Mr. Dumo Lulu-Briggs, recognised for African Traditional Leadership and Business Excellence

The night was more than just an award ceremony—it was a powerful statement that Africa’s best days are ahead, powered by those who dare to lead, build, and dream beyond borders.