Former Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Uche Geoffrey Nnaji, has received the Women Empowerment Champion of the Year award at the Her Excellence & Award 2026 ceremony held in Abuja.
The recognition highlighted contributions toward promoting women’s development and inclusion in national growth initiatives.
Nnaji, who served in the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu, was represented at the ceremony by Basil Ani.
In remarks delivered on his behalf, the former minister acknowledged the importance of women in national development and described their contributions as essential to building strong families and communities.
“I am deeply honoured by this recognition. It is a reminder that empowering women is not just a policy objective but a moral and social responsibility that strengthens families, communities and the nation,” Nnaji said.
The Her Excellence & Award 2026 event was organised to recognise individuals and institutions supporting women’s empowerment and leadership across various sectors.
The programme also celebrated the achievements of 50 women recognised for excellence in fields such as governance, business, community service, and advocacy.
According to the organisers, the awards aim to highlight the role of women in social and economic development while encouraging broader participation of women in leadership and decision-making processes.
During the event, Nnaji noted that women have played a significant role throughout his years in public service and national engagement.
“Throughout my years in public service, women have stood as strong partners and pillars of support. Their resilience, intelligence and commitment to nation building remain invaluable,” he said.
Several public figures and advocates attended the ceremony, including Julie Donli, founder of the Roost Foundation and former Director-General of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP).
Also present were Jennifer Jea Serrano, founder of The Unity Project Nigeria; Bunmi Obakoya, founder of the Bunmi Obakoya Foundation; and Ramatu Tijjani Aliyu, former Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory.
Other participants included Natasha Osawaru Idibia, a member of the Edo State House of Assembly, and Ambassador Toyin Kolade.
Events that recognise efforts toward women’s empowerment have become part of broader initiatives aimed at strengthening gender inclusion in Nigeria.
Such programmes seek to encourage policies and partnerships that support women’s participation in governance, entrepreneurship, and community development.
