By John Mayaki
Several prominent Nigerian leaders, including Nyesom Wike, minister of the Federal Capital Territory; Senator Monday Okpebholo, governor of Edo State; and Alex Otti, governor of Abia State, were honored in Abuja yesterday for what organizers described as their commitment to good governance.
The awards, presented at a one-day conference convened by the Good Governance African International Network, came under the theme “Good Governance: The Pathway to National Development.”
For Governor Okpebholo, who assumed office earlier this year, the recognition is both a validation and a test.
Okpebholo inherited a state still reeling from years of infrastructure delays and economic uncertainty under his predecessor, Godwin Obaseki, whose administration faced mounting criticism for stalled projects and broken promises.
In contrast, Okpebholo has branded himself as a problem-solver, pledging to accelerate long-neglected initiatives and put cash directly into sectors that affect citizens’ lives.
In recent months, he has released billions of naira to clear pension arrears for retirees of Edo’s closed colleges of education and agriculture, moves that analysts say signal a shift toward restitution and reconciliation.
Dr. Sylvester Omose, publisher of the network and convener of the event, argued that recognition was necessary to encourage such efforts. “Nigeria can be a better place if our leaders provide the fundamental facilities that citizens need,” he said, emphasizing that electricity shortages and youth unemployment continue to drive emigration.
Other speakers echoed the need for systemic change. Pastor and engineer Gabriel Omolaolu, delivering the keynote address, called for collective responsibility in rebuilding Nigeria, citing corruption, insecurity and disunity as persistent threats. “Without addressing these issues,” he said, “good governance cannot thrive.”
Dr. Collins Aimuan, founder of Philomath University, urged deeper citizen engagement. “When institutions are respected and governance is transparent, inclusiveness becomes a norm,” he said.
