Vanessa 
Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, has been honored as Woman of the Year at the Independent Awards 2024. She dedicated the award to Nigerian women and youth, recognizing their resilience and contributions to the nation’s development.
At the awards ceremony in Lagos on Saturday, Mrs. Tinubu, a former senator, was represented by Hajia Fatima Tajudeen, wife of the Speaker of the House of Representatives. She expressed deep gratitude for the recognition and emphasized the importance of women and youth in Nigeria’s progress.
“I receive this award with deep appreciation. It will further inspire me to contribute my quota to national development,” she said. She also praised Nigerian women and young people, calling them the unsung heroes of the country.
The Independent Awards celebrate outstanding achievements in politics, business, entertainment, education, and other key sectors.
Bode George Warns Tinubu: Resolve Rivers Crisis Before It Escalates
PDP chieftain Chief Olabode George, who chaired the event, called on President Bola Tinubu to intervene in the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State.
He warned that instability in the oil-rich state could have severe consequences for Nigeria’s economy and national security.
“Rivers State is too critical to Nigeria’s economy to be allowed to descend into chaos. The government must act fast to prevent a crisis,” he said.
George also criticized the current administration, questioning the well-being of Nigerians as the country approaches the 2027 elections.
“Who is truly happy in Nigeria today? My party is preparing to take over, and the question voters must ask is: Are you better off now than before?” he stated.
Top Honorees at the Independent Awards 2024
A total of 36 individuals and organizations were recognized for their contributions to Nigeria’s growth and development.
Seyi Makinde (Oyo State Governor) – Independent Man of the Year
Bisi Akande – Lifetime Achievement Award
Charles Soludo (Anambra State Governor) – Governor of the Year (Urban Renewal)
Bassey Otu (Cross River State Governor) – Governor of the Year (Economic Transformation)
Abdullahi Sule (Nasarawa State Governor) – Governor of the Year (Solid Minerals Development)
Hope Uzodinma (Imo State Governor) – Recognized for contributions to governance
Bukunmi Adeaga-Ilori (Kiekie) – Social Media Influencer of the Year
Otunba Mike Adenuga (Chairman, Globacom) – Business Excellence Award
Charles Odi (DG, SMEDAN) – Recognized for contributions to entrepreneurship
Prof. Abayomi Fasina (FUOYE Vice-Chancellor) – Recognized for academic excellence
The event underscored the importance of leadership, innovation, and social influence in shaping Nigeria’s future.
