Hallmarks of Labour Foundation

Professor Babagana Umar Zulum receives the Hallmarks of Labour Role Model Award for Excellence in Leadership and Good Governance


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Professor Babagana Umar Zulum receives the Hallmarks of Labour Role Model Award for Excellence in Leadership and Good Governance


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Book Series - Hallmark of Labour Book 11 Launch

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The First African President of the International Criminal Court Award presented to Hon Judge Chile Eboe -Osuji.

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Hon Justice P.A Galumje receives the award for Exemplary/Courageous service to the advancement of our legal system.

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Professor Nimi Briggs Presents the Award for outstanding contributions to the field of Medicine to Professor Ladipo Ashiru.

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Professor A.S. Sambo receives Award for outstanding contributions in the field of Science.

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Professor Attahiru Jega presents the Award for outstanding contribution in the field of Education to Professor Peter Okebukola

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Professor Dennis Agbonlahor receives the Award for outstanding contribution to the field of science.

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Scholarships

Focused primarily on the indigent and displaced children of the Niger Delta, the Foundation will continue to provide support to enable them achieve maximum potential.

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What We Do

Acknowledgement of Contemporary Societal Role Models for the younger generation to emulate and make a positive impact in their communities.

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Sponsorships

Gestures of Magnanimity are very well appreciated and received with a deep sense of gratefulness as your support can make a lasting impact.

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ABOUT US

Discovering the Hallmarks of Labour Foundation

Celebrating Hard Work, Integrity, and Patriotism in Nigeria and Beyond

Our vision is to create a society where the younger generation is inspired by contemporary role models who embody the values of integrity, empathy, and selflessness. Through our efforts, we strive to foster a culture of acknowledgement and appreciation for those who exemplify the best of humanity and empower the next generation to follow in their footsteps.

Our mission is to provide a platform for showcasing inspiring stories and promoting a culture of social responsibility among the next generation. We believe that by recognizing and celebrating the achievements of these role models, we can empower the youth to become change agents and contribute towards a better society. 

What We Do

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Role Model Award

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Book Series

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Scholarship (HLFSS)

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Widows Empowerment

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Workshops & Symposia

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TV Series

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ROLE MODELSHLF Role Models

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Notable excerpts from our Book Series

"Celebrating Hard Work, Integrity, and Patriotism in Nigeria and Beyond"

The books come in Hard and Soft Covers and can be found in:

  • CSS bookshops throughout Nigeria
  • Nicon Nuga
  • Sheraton Hotels & Towers – Ikeja, Lagos
  • Palmgroove Hotel Warri
  • Suite A49-64 Ikota Shopping Complex Lekki-Epe Express Way
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PRESS & MEDIA

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EVENTS

Past & Upcoming Events

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Hallmark Events

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20 Jan

Hallmarks of Labour Foundation Iconic Award 2024

January 20, 2025 @ 14:00 , more
Lagos State
15 Dec

HLF 26th Anniversary Role Model Awards

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Lagos Nigeria
11 Dec

HLF 25TH Anniversary & Role Model Awards 2021

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Oriental Hotel, Victoria Island Lagos
11 Dec

Young Achievers Award 2021

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Latest Updates from the Blog

  • October 11, 2023

We Mourn! Emeritus Professor Umaru Shehu, CON, CFR, HLR

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  • September 21, 2023

Book Presentation “Hallmarks of Labour Book II” : Message from AfDB President Dr. Adesina on Prof. Akinwale Bolaji Akinyemi

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  • April 4, 2022

FORMAL PRESENTATION OF HALLMARKS OF LABOUR VOLUME 10

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Professor Babagana Zulum, CON, MNI

An accomplished Agricultural Engineer, Administrator & Humanist, Professor Babagana Umaru Zulumobtained his academic and professional education in Nigeria and overseas. Among his qualifications are: National Diploma in Irrigation Engineering, Bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Engineering, M.Sc. in Agricultural Engineering, and Ph.D. in Soil & Water Engineering. He also attended the National Institute for Policy & Strategic Studies, Kuru-Jos.

Professor Babagana Zulum started his working career as an Assistant Technical Officer in the Borno State Ministry of Agriculture. There was a challenging interlude in self-employment and further studies before he joined the University of Maiduguri (UniMaid) as an Assistant Lecturer in the Faculty of Agricultural Engineering. Over the years, he successively served as Deputy Dean and Dean of the Faculty and rose to the rank of Professor.

In the interim, he was appointed Rector of Ramat Polytechnic, Maiduguri, which he was familiar with as a student.  He literally served in that capacity for free as he opted to retain his meagre salary a UniMaid where he also gave some lecture hours.

On account of his sterling performance at Ramat Polytechnic, Professor Babagana Zulum was further pressed into service as Borno State’s pioneer Commissioner for Reconstruction, Rehabilitation & Resettlement. Despite the extreme security challenges, this man of vision acquitted himself creditably. Among other attainments, he oversaw and coordinated the reconstruction of over 30,000 re-settlement homes, schools, hospitals and other vital publicservices. These facilitated the steady restoration of civil authority across theState and the consequent return of Internally-Displaced Persons (IDPs) to communities in at least 14 Local Government Areas.

In the interim again, Professor Babagana Zulum sustained his teaching functions at UniMaid.

At the dawn of fresh general elections in 2019, Professor Babagana Zulum was popular choice for the post of Governor of Borno State; and he duly won the elections on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC). His people-oriented approach to governance and achievements in office to date are well-documented and appreciated even nationally. As a matter of fact, in one year, the Zulum administration delivered 326 physical projects and 49 capital-intensive programmes and policies. By year two, there were 556 capital projects which included 194 on Education.

Acknowledged as Borno State’s chief humanitarian officer, Professor Babagana Zulum is literally on ground all the time even at personal risk to ensure the delivery of good governance to his constituents many of who have been traumatised by security challenges.

Deservedly, He has earned Fellowships from many high-end professional bodies, including: National Postgraduate College, Nigerian Institute of Agricultural Engineers, and Nigerian Institute of Architects, 2021.

Recognition has also come from many other sources for this Performing Governor. The awards include: Ordre National Du Niger Grand Officer (Niger Republic’s second-highest national honour);Zik’s Prize for Leadership 2020; NUJ’s Most-Promising First-Term Governor; Muslim Personality of the Year; Leadership and Vanguard Newspapers Personality of the Year 2020; University of Ibadan Alumni of the Year &Most Distinguished Alumni Award2020; and National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) Human Rights Award2021.

He is happily married with children.

Ladies & Gentlemen, we invite His Excellency, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum to receive the Hallmarks of Labour Role Model Award for Excellence in Leadership and Good Governance.

Congratulations, Sir!

Engr. Professor Abubakar Sambo, FAS, FAEng, FNSE, FSESN, FNIMechE, FNAEE, FRAESON, FNIM, FNIPE, FEI (UK)

A seasoned Engineer, Administrator, Teacher & Author,Abubakar Sani  Sambowas educated in Nigeria and abroad. He holds the B.Eng. (1stClass Hons.) and D.Phil.degrees in Mechanical Engineering, and some other professional qualifications from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria and University of Sussex, UK.

At Bayero University, Kano, he taught courses in Applied Thermodynamics, Fluid Mechanics, Heat Transfer and Engineering Drawing as well as conducted R&D in Solar Radiation Studies, Flat Plate Solar Collectors and Thermosyphon Solar Water Heaters.

At Usman Danfodio University, Sokoto, he served as Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic) and co-ordinated several ground-breaking R&D activities at the Energy Centre.

For two terms again (1995-2004), our energy expert served as the Vice- Chancellor, Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University Bauchi; and briefly as the Pioneer Vice-Chancellor of Kaduna State University. In the former capacity, he strengthened the academic programmes and ensured that all the engineering degree programmes were accredited by both the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN) and the National Universities Commission (NUC). There were also other initiatives for Post-Graduate School, revenue-generation, external support for projects, and staff welfare.

Moving forward, Professor Abubakar Sambo was appointed Director-General, Energy Commission of Nigeria (ECN) in which capacity he also served for two terms. His tenure witnessed the production of a National Energy Data Bank and National Energy Manpower Plan as well as the establishment of fourenergy research centres and the introduction of the Journal of Energy Planning Research and Development (JEPRD).

He is currently at the Faculty of Engineering & Environmental Design of Usmanu Danfodio University, Sokoto.

Aside from his full-time schedules, Professor Abubakar Sambo has served society in numerous ad-hoc capacities. Among others, he has been Chairman, Ministerial Policy & Advisory Technical Committee on the Environment; two-term Vice-Chairman for Africa on the World Energy Council, Member of the First Council of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), and Special Adviser to the President on Energy.

Professor Abubakar Sambo has published extensively in local and international peer-review publications. His professional affiliations include: Fellowships of Nigerian Academy of Engineering(FAEng), Nigeria Academy of Science (FAS), Nigerian Society of Engineers (FNSE),Solar Energy Society of Nigeria(FSESN), Chemical Society of Nigeria (FCSN), Nigerian Institution of Mechanical Engineers (FNIMechE), Nigerian Association of Energy Economists(FNAEE), Renewable &Alternative Energy Society of Nigeria(FRAESON), Nigerian Institute of Management (FNIM), Nigerian Institute of Power Engineers(FNIPE), Institute of Corporate Administration of Nigeria (FICA),Institute of Administrative Management of Nigeria (FIAMN), and Energy Institute of the United Kingdom (FEI). He is also a Member — Research Board of the American Biographical Institute, International Biographical Centre Advisory Council, International Solar Energy Society, International Energy Foundation, and World Renewable Energy Network.

An Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON), Professor Abubakar Sambo is also a recipient of several other awards, including: National Productivity Order of Merit, Pillar of University Education Merit Award,Year 2000 Nigerian Society of Engineers Merit Award, Life-Membership Award of the Science Teachers’ Association of Nigeria, and he is also mentioned in the Association of Commonwealth Universities Who’s Who from 1996 to 2003.

He is happily married with children.

Ladies & Gentlemen, we invite Professor Abubakar Sani Sambo to receive the Hallmarks of Labour Role Model Award for Outstanding Contributions in the Field of Science.

Congratulations, Sir!

Professor Tonnie Osa Iredia, OON

A Veteran Broadcaster, Sociologist, Lawyer & Administrator, Professor Tonnie Osa Iredia was born on January 31, 1949.  He hails from the ancient City of Benin in today’s Edo State of Nigeria. He obtained his formal education mostly in Nigeria; and holdstwo Bachelor’s, a Master’s and two Doctorate degrees in the multi-disciplinary fields of Law, Media and Management.  He also participated in quite a number of professional improvement programmes within and outside the country.

Professor Tonnie Iredia has served his country and society at large in several critical capacities. These include: Mid-West Television [now Nigerian Television Authority], Benin City, where he rose to become Manager, News & Current Affairs; through Manager, Programmes Services [MPS] & Executive Director [News] & Anchor of the popular public affairs programme: Point Blank] — to the post of Director-General/CEO.

Professor Tonnie Iredia’s leadership tenure at the NTA recorded several innovations. Within one year, the number of transmitting stations rose from 27 to 68. He also institutionalized Live Coverage of events across the country as well as conceived and coordinated the idea of establishing NTA International for global reach.

In the interim — April 2002-June 2003 — he was the Secretary to the Board of the National Orientation Agency [NOA] & Director of Planning, Research & Statistics. Later, he was appointed the Agency’s Director-General/CEO.

Professor Tonnie Iredia was similarly deployed as a Technical Assistant on elections to Liberia’s Independent Elections Commission. While there, the Economic Community of West African States [ECOWAS] also mandated him to serve as the Coordinator of political broadcasts for the first post-civil war elections in that country. One of his success stories in Liberia was his prudent management of resources provided by Nigeria for the resuscitation of the Liberia Broadcasting Service [LBS].

A regular feature on lecture circuits, he is on the faculty of the Department of Mass Communication at Nassarawa State University and a full Professor at Igbinedion University, Okada. He has also authored many learned papers and published works, including the best-selling Communication Skills: Fundamentals of Effective Communication in Developing Economies.                                                                                                                                                                                    

Professor Tonnie Iredia’s professional affiliations are very impressive. He is a Fellow — Nigerian Institute of Public Relations; Nigerian Guild of Editors; Nigerian Institute of Management; and Society for Peace Studies & Practice. He is also a Member of the Nigerian Union of Journalists, Nigerian Bar Association, Commonwealth Broadcasting Association, Broadcasting Organizations of Nigeria, Institute of Administrators, and Institute of Corporate Executives of Nigeria.    

An Officer of the Order of the Niger [OON], this veteran of the broadcast industry has been variously recognised for his positive impact in his chosen fields and on society. Included here are: Best News Editor, FESTAC ‘77 [Broadcasting Organizations of Nigeria], Kwame Nkrumah Leadership Award, 2007, 2010 Life-Time Media Management Achievement Award and many others.

Ladies and Gentlemen, it is with great pleasure that we invite Professor Tonnie Osa Iredia to receive the HLF-Christopher Kolade Award for Excellence in Leadership and Professionalism in the Media.

Congratulations, Sir!

Professor Dennis Agbonlahor, FRCPath, FAS, FAcadMedS,FWACMLS

An outstanding globally-acclaimed Medical Microbiologist and Medical Laboratory Scientist,Professor Dennis Edokpaigbe Agbonlahorrreceived his formal and specialised training in Nigeria and abroad, including National Veterinary Research Laboratory Training School, Vom; Paddington Technical College, London; and College of Medicine, University of Lagos.

Professor Agbonlahor’s professional work experience has been extensive. He worked with the National Veterinary Research Institute, Vom; Central Middlesex Hospital, London; and St. Georges Hospital, Toothing, London. He joined the then Bendel State University (now Ambrose Alli University), Ekpoma as a Senior Lecturer in 1985; and became a Professor in 1988. Progressively, he served as Dean of Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences; Dean of Faculty of Natural Sciences; Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic); and Vice-Chancellor of the University. He is also a Visiting Professor to a number of universities within and outside Nigeria.

With over 137 scholarly publications in reputable journals to his credit, Professor Dennis Agbonlahor has recorded many notable research findings and initiatives.The core of his Scientific contributions are spread around research findings on his innovative phenotypic & molecular laboratory diagnosis of causative bacterial, viral, fungal and parasitic pathogens from human and animal clinical specimens.  Of special note, is his maiden discovery & description of a novel diarrheagenic pathogen, which he named Yersiniaenterocolitica-like bacterium in 1982. It is also significant to note how he fearlessly joined the team of the Lassa fever investigators in Nigeria at the outset of outbreaks of this dreaded disease in the 70s & 80s. His involvement and experiences during the 1989 episode in the University Town of Ekpoma remains noteworthy.

Among others, He played very crucial and decisive role in the transformation of the training of Medical Laboratory Scientists in Nigeria from the former professional Diploma programme to its current five-year university degree programme in the late 1980s and 1990s. He has continued to serve as a consultant on the World Expert Advisory Microbiology Board of the International Federation of Medical Laboratory Scientists.

Beyond the classroom, Professor Dennis Agbonlahor has been pressed into service on critical assignment He is a member of the National Committee on the Control of Lassa Fever in Nigeria; He is currently serving as a member of the Ministerial Expert Advisory Committee on Covid-19, Federal Ministry of Health Response; Professor Dennis Edokpaigbe Agbonlahor also served as the President of Biotechnology Society of Nigeria (BSN) between 2004 and 2006; He is the President and Founder of Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) Awareness Initiative(AMRAI, a health-based NGO, he is also the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Lahor Research Laboratories and Medical Centre, Benin City.

Honoured severally, he is a Fellow of many academic societies and professional bodies. They include: Royal College of Pathologists, UK, Nigeria Academy of Science, Nigeria Academy of Medicine Specialties, West African Postgraduate College of Medical Laboratory Sciences, Biotechnology Society of Nigeria, Royal Society for Tropical Medicine & Hygiene, London, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, London, Microbiology Society of Nigeria, and American Society for Microbiology, among others.

He is happily married to Lady Rhonda Nike Agbonlahor; and they have children one of who is a Professor of Medical & Environmental Microbiology.

Ladies & Gentlemen, we invite Professor Dennis Edokpaigbe Agbonlahor to receive the Hallmarks of Labour Role Model Award for Outstanding Contributions in the Field of Science.

Congratulations, Sir!

Professor Oladapo Ashiru, OFR, FASN, FNSEM, HCLD (ABB), FAcadMedS

At 32 the youngest professor of Medicine in Africa till date, Oladapo A. Ashiru received his initialmedicaltraining attheCollege of Medicine, University of Lagos and Universityof Nebraska Medical Centre, USA. He holds the MBBS, M.Sc. Anatomy & Ph.D. Anatomy as well as some other professional qualifications.

On clinical assignments, Professor Oladapo Ashiru has worked as a House Officer, Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH); Flotilla Medical Officer, Nigerian Navy, Lagos; Reproductive Endocrinologist/Visiting Assistant Professor, University of Nebraska Medical Centre, USA; Consultant Reproductive Endocrinologist/Principal Investigator/Scientific Director, LUTH; and Consultant, Centre for Human Reproduction, University of Illinois at Chicago, USA.

In academia, he was at the Department of Anatomy and College of Medicine of University of Lagos; University of Illinois College of Medicine,USA; and Lagos State UniversityCollege of Medicine.

He has also been a Visiting Professor — University of South CarolinaSchool of Medicine, Columbia, USA; Rush University, Chicago, Illinois, USA; and Grand Valley State University, Allendale, Michigan, Detroit, USA.

Professor Oladapo Ashiru is currently the Chief Medical Director, Medical-Assisted Reproductive Technology (MART) Group of Health Services, incorporating Medical ART Centre, the MART Diagnostic Centre, Mart Medicare, Mart Life Detox Clinic, and Institute of Assisted Reproductive Technology.

Over the years, he has undertaken several ad-hoc assignments with, among others, WHO, International Federation of Fertility Society, FIGO, African Consultation Organization, and International Federation of Medical Students Association, International Committee on Youth & Population Activities (IYPA), Anatomical Society of West Africa, Association of Anatomical Societies of Africa, and International Federation of Association of Anatomists.

Author of over 140 publications, Professor Oladapo Ashiru discovered and reported the follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) positive feed-back mechanism in 1979. He pioneered the technique of In-Vitro fertilization and Embryo transfer in West Africa in 1983 and co-pioneered the first test-tube baby through IVF-ET in 1989. He similarly initiated the use of Pre-implantation Genetic Diagnosis for the elimination of chromosomal abnormalities, Sickle cell disease in babies of sickle cell carrier couples, and for family balancing.

This eminent scholar is an active member of many professional bodies. They include: American Association of Bioanalysis, Nigerian Medical Association, American Society for Reproductive Medicine, American Association of Anatomists, International Society for Neuroendocrinology, International Federation of Association of Anatomists, International Federation of Fertility Societies, African Fertility Society, Nigerian Society of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Association for Fertility and Reproductive Health, Academy of Medicine Specialties, and High Complexity Clinical Laboratory Director.

An Officer of the Order of the Federal Republic (OFR), Distinguished Alumnus of University of Lagos, The Otunba Orodudu-joye of Ijebuland.

He is happily married with children.

Ladies and Gentlemen, we invite Professor Oladapo A. Ashiru to receive the Hallmarks of Labour Role Model Award for Outstanding Contributions in the Field of Medicine.

Congratulations Sir!

Emeritus Professor Osato Giwa-Oagie, OON, FRCOG, FWACS, FICS, FACOG (SA), COL

A  Professor of Obstetrics and Gynaecology since 1987, Osato Ona Frank Giwa-Osagie was educated in Nigeria and abroad. He holds several academic and professional qualifications, including Cambridge University Medical Tripos; B.A.  (Hons.)  Pathology, Cambridge University Natural Sciences; M.A. (Hons.); M.B., B. CHIR (Hons.) Cambridge; E.C.F.M.G., USA; and M.Sc. (Steroid Endocrinology), Leeds University. 

Emeritus Professor Osato Giwa-Osagie has served society in various critical capacities. He was Locum Registrar in Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Royal Free Hospital, London; and Lecturer, WHO Research Centre, King’sCollege Hospital, London.

In the University of Lagos system, he was variously Senior Registrar and Consultant at the University Teaching Hospital (LUTH); Lecturer I, Senior Lecturer and Associate Professor,College of Medicine; Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist, LUTH; Professor of Obstetrics and Gynaecology; Head of Department for three terms; Co-ordinator of IVF programme, and Head, Unit of Reproductive Endocrinology and Fertility Regulation.

He retired from full-time schedules in 2012 at the age of 65; and has been a Distinguished Professor since 2011 and a Professor Emeritus from 2017.

His ad-hoc schedules include special assignments as Foundation Chairman, Board of National Hospital, Abuja; Honorary Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist to the State HouseClinic, Lagos and Abuja (1988-1999); and with the National Committee on Maternal and Child Health; Federal Ministry of Health Task Force on Blood Transfusion; Family Health Service Programme; and Federal Ministry of Science and Technology Special Advisory Panel on the Safety of the injectable contraceptive known as Depo Provera.

Internationally, there have been consultancies and executive appointments with WHO-Geneva, West African College of Surgeons, Johns Hopkins University, Pathfinder Fund Boston, Margaret Sanger Centre New York, Association for Voluntary Surgical Contraception New York, International Programmes Assistance Services (IPAS) North Carolina, Programme of Appropriate Technology in Health (PATH), Washington, United Nations Fund for Population Activities (UNFPA), and Society for Family Health, among many others.

Professor Osato Giwa-Osagie is also engaged with some NGOs and Charities, including COPE (on breast cancer awareness), Howzat Foundation for Cricket development, Post-Abortion Care Network of Nigeria, and Professor Oladele Akinla Trust Fund (to support research in the O&G Department).

His professional affiliations too numerous to recount here include: Fellowships of the West African College of Surgeons (FWACS), Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (FRCOG), International College of Surgeons (FICS), College of Obstetrics and Gynaecology of South Africa, and Academy of Medicine Specialities of Nigeria. He is also a Member — Clare College Cambridge Association, Royal Society of Medicine, London, Society of Gynaecology and Obstetrics of Nigeria, Fertility Society of Australia, American Fertility Society, General Medical Council, England, Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria, and Nigerian Medical Association. Our eminent honouree has also served these bodies in executive capacities, among which are: President and Trustee, West African College of Surgeons; Trustee, Association for Fertility and Reproductive Health; and Trustee, Academy of Medicine Specialities of Nigeria.

Widely published and a regular feature on learned circuits, Emeritus Professor Osato Giwa-Osagie has been severally honoured across the land. He is an Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON); and a recipient of Senegal’s National Honour of “Chevalier de L’ordre National du Lion” (COL) for Service to Surgical Education; Life-Time Achievement Award for Exceptional Dedication to Improving Women’s Health” by IPAS, USA; Maiden Distinguished Service Award of the Society of Gynaecology and Obstetrics of Nigeria (SOGON) for pioneering research in In-Vitro Fertilisation in West Africa; D.Sc. degree (Honoris Causa) of University of Benin; and he isObarisiagbon of Benin Kingdom.

He is married with children to Dr. Mrs. A. P. Giwa-Osagie.

Ladies & Gentlemen, we invite Emeritus Professor Osato Ona Frank Giwa-Osagie to receive the Hallmarks of Labour Role Model Award for Outstanding Contributions in the Field of Medicine.

Congratulations, Sir!

Otunba Olasubomi Balogun, CON, FCIBN

An accomplished Lawyer, Investment Banker & Entrepreneur, Otunba Michael Olasubomi Olaotan OlaonipekunBalogunobtained his Law degree at the London School of Economics; and was called to the English Bar in 1959. He also received professional training in Legal Drafting in Whitehall and the City of London, with specialisation in financial legislation, instruments, and agreements.

After stints with the then Western Nigeria Ministry of Justice as Crown Counsel and later, Parliamentary Counsel in the Federal Ministry of Justice, he joined the Nigerian Industrial Development Bank (NIDB) where he served as Principal Counsel & Company Secretary for about a decade. From there, he was assigned to ICON Securities Limited as Director of Operations. Subsequently, he headed Icon Stockbrokers Limited and later became Executive Director in ICON Limited (Merchant Bankers).

In 1977, fortified by specialist training at The World Bank and International Finance Corporation in Washington DC and other exposures, his growing interest in investment finance led him to establishCity Securities Limited (Stockbrokers) and subsequently, First City Merchant Bankalmost single-handedly.

CSL Limited is the first institution in Nigeria to ever combine an issuing house and stockbroking business under one name; while FCMB was the first wholly-Nigerian-owned merchant bank.

Now known as First City Monument Bank, FCMB is today acknowledged as a premium banking brand. Other success stories in the FCMB Group include: CSL Stockbrokers, FCMB Capital Markets, First City Asset Management, FCMB Microfinance Bank, FCMB UK, FCMB Pensions and FCMB Trustees.

Beyond the FCMB Group, he has served on the Councils of the Nigerian Stock Exchangeand a number of multi-national Chambers of Commerce for several years.

The Founder of Otunba Tunwase Foundation, Otunba Subomi Balogun is a philanthropist of note. Among other generous gestures, he funded the construction of a National Pediatric Centre in Ijebu-Ode, which he donated to University College Hospital, Ibadan. He also sponsors several other worthy causes, including a fully-equipped 40-bed Children’s Centre in Ijebu-Ode.

Recognitions have flowed for this gentleman of mission. Included here are: Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON), Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Bankers Nigeria, Distinguished Leadership Award of the American Biographical Institute, Asiwaju of Ijebu Christians, Otunba Tunwase of Ijebuland,Olori Omo-Oba, Olori Ebi of the Arojojoye Ruling House in Ijebu Ode, and Doctor of Laws (Honoris Causa) of the University of Ibadan.

He is happily married with children to Olori Abimbola Adetutu Balogun.

Ladies & Gentlemen, we respectfully invite Otunba Michael Olasubomi Balogun to receive the Hallmarks of Labour Role Model Award for Excellence In Entrepreneurship And Corporate Governance.

Congratulations, Sir!

Professor Ekanem Braide, OFR,FAS, FPPSN

A distinguished Parasitologist, Epidemiologist, Medical Entomologist, Teacher, Author & Administrator, Professor Ekanem Braide (Nee Ita) obtained her tertiary education at University of Ife, , Nigeria; Cornell University, New York,; and University of Southampton, UK. Among other academic & professional qualifications, she holds the B.Sc. (Hons.) in Zoology, M.Sc. andPh.D. Parasitology, and a Certificate in Epidemiology. .                                                                                                                                                                                      

Professor Ekanem Braide has served academia and the wider society is many strategic capacities. Principally,she was aLecturer in Biology, Zoology, Parasitology and Epidemiology at the University of Calabar, Nigeria for about three decades — October 1979 to January 2009.

Over the years, she served as a Lecturer in Zoology, University of Nigeria, Nsukka; Guest Lecturer in Public Health &Applied Parasitology, University of Jos; and Zonal Facilitator, Nigerian Guinea-Worm Eradication Programme.An External Examiner and Assessor to several universities and institutions, Professor Ekanem Braide has a wide and rich research experience in her specialties within and beyond Nigeria. Her research focus is on disease control, especially operational research, impact assessment of interventions, rapid assessment methods in mapping diseases and community initiatives in disease control.

Appointed Vice-Chancellor, Cross River State University of Technology, Calabar in 2004-2009, she also served as the Pioneer Vice-Chancellor of Federal University, Lafia in Nassarawa State, 2011-2016.

Professor Ekanem Braide subsequently became the Pro-Chancellor and Chairman of Governing Council, Arthur Jarvis University, Akpabuyo, Cross River State. Nigeria from 2016 to 2022; and Chairman, Board of Trustees, Essien Ukpabio Presbyterian Theological College, Itu, Nigeria.

Professor Ekanem Braide has been fulfilling consultancy briefs for quite anumber of government, private and international agencies across the world. They include: UNICEF, WHO, Canadian University Services Overseas (CUSO), Federal & State Governments, (Jimmy) Carter Centre USA, Global 2000, and International Labour Organization( ILO).

Author of numerous publications and learned presentations: Fellow & current President, Nigeria Academy of Science; Fellow, Co-Founder and Life Member, Public Health and Parasitology Society of Nigeria (PPSN); to mention a few.

Our accomplished Parasitologist has been recognised nationally and globally for her value-added roles. Included here are:Officer of the Order of the Federal Republic (OFR); Mother’s Pride, Presbyterian Church of Nigeria; Jimmy and Rosalynn Carter Award for outstanding Dedication and Achievement as Zonal Facilitator Nigeria Guinea-Worm Eradication Programme; Nigerian Chambers of Commerce andCross River State 2000 Millennium Award.   

She was happily married with children to Professor Victor Bowerson-Chase Braide of blessed memory.

Ladies & Gentlemen, we respectfully invite Professor Ekanem Ita-Braide to receive the HLF-Umaru Shehu Life-Time Achievement Award for Consistent Advocacy for Positive Change Within the University System.

Hearty Congratulations, Madam!

Emeritus Professor Peter Akinsola Okebukola, OFR, FIAE, FSAN, FNAEE, FSTAN

A Professor of Science & Computer Education and Fellow, International Academy of Education, Peter Akinsola Okebukola was educated in Nigeria and abroad. Among other qualifications, he holds the University of Ibadan Bachelor’s, Master’s & Doctorate degrees in Science Education as well as Specialist Certificates in Science & Computer Education from Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvard University, both in the USA.

In academia, Peter Okebukola has served as secondary school Science Teacher&Senior Education Officer; college of education Lecturer; and Senior Lecturer up to Professor, Lagos State University (LASU), Ojo-Lagos. He subsequently served as Deputy Vice-Chancellor of the University. He has recently been made Emeritus Professor by LASU – the first so appointed by the University.

Based on his sterling performance at LASU, Professor Peter Okebukola was named Executive Secretary, National Universities Commission (NUC). In that capacity, he led the regulatory agency for that tier of tertiary education in Nigeria; to revitalise its national accreditation process and develop a model of quality assurance that has received global acclaim.

Beyond his primary constituency, Professor Peter Okebukola has variously served as a Consultant to a number of government and international agencies. These include: UNESCO, UNICEF, the African Union, the World Bank, European Union, Association of African Universities, World Wildlife Fund, JAMB, NUC, He has also served as Chairman of Council of four Nigerian universities; Chairman — Boards of Trustees of Crawford University and Caleb University; ECOWAS Representative on the Governing Council of the Pan African University owned by the African Union; and Africa Representative, International Council of Associations for Science Education.

The Executive Chairman, Okebukola Science Foundation, Professor Peter Okebukola has also been the President, Global University Network for Innovation (GUNI)-Africa which conducts capacity-building  in quality assurance for higher education teachers and researchers in Africa, since 2004. He is also the incumbent Director of the Virtual Institute for Capacity Building in Higher Education, which has trained over 300 certified accreditors to date.

Author& co-Author of numerous published works and presentations at learned fora, Professor Peter Okebukola is an active Member of several professional bodies, including: Science Teachers Association of Nigeria, International Academy of Education, Institute of Biology (London), American Educational Research Association, Educational Studies Association of Nigeria, National Association for Environmental Education, and Science Teachers Association of Western Australia.

He has been variously honoured by academia and the wider society for his value-added contributions. Among these recognitions are: Officer of the Order of the Federal Republic (OFR); 1969 John F. Kennedy Essay Award; 1992 UNESCO Kalinga Prize for the Communication of Science; several international gold medals in science & computer education; and a  number of honorary doctor-of-science degrees.

Ladies & Gentlemen, we respectfully invite Professor Peter Akinsola Okebukola to receive the Hallmarks of Labour Role Model Award For Outstanding Contributions in the Field of Education.

Congratulations, Sir!

Honourable Dr. Chile Eboe-Osuji

An accomplished International Jurist, Teacher, Author and Administrator, Honourable Judge (Dr.) Chile Eboe-Osuji was born in Añara, Isiala Mbano, Imo State, Nigeria, on September 2, 1962.  Among other academic and professional qualifications, he holds the LL.B, LL.M and Ph.D. degrees from Universities of Calabar, Nigeria, McGill, Canada and  Amsterdam, The Netherlands, respectively. An honorary Doctor of letters by the University of Middlesex, London, England. He was variously called to the Nigerian Bar and to the Bar in Ontario and British Columbia in Canada.

Dr. Chile Eboe-Osuji was a Judge of the International Criminal Court (ICC) at The Hague for nine (9) years and the first Nigerian to serve as an ICC judge.

In 2018, he was elevated to the position of (4th) President of the Court by his fellow judges – a trust he managed commendably over a 3-year tenure. The first African to hold the post, he presided over an 18-Judge Court undeterred in their collective determination to discharge the mandate of humanity,  despite serious political attacks directed at the Court by a most powerful government. With the unalloyed support of his colleagues, his leadership ensured that “the ICC became the principal pillar of the international rule of law; a key tool in the pursuit of international peace and the protection of humankind from unspeakable acts of inhumanity”.

Highlights of his tenure at the helm of the ICC include: development of international law which made it clear that international law does not recognize immunity  for heads of state accused of international crimes before an international court; judgments that underscored the importance of the ICC as a court of fair proceedings where everyone including accused persons would receive justice; a holistic systems review — the first of such an exercise in the Court’s history – to strengthen the ICC as an institution and maintain its independence as the cornerstone of its legitimacy.

Prior to his appointment as a Judge of the ICC, Chile Eboe-Osuji had a brilliant career in legal practice and related assignments. As a Barrister, he appeared before trial courts in Nigeria and Canada as well as conducted appeals before the Court of Appeal for Ontario (Canada) and the Supreme Court of Canada.

At the international level, he was also Legal Expert to Nigeria’s delegation to the ICC-ASP Special Working Group on the Definition of the Crime of Aggression.

He served as Legal Adviser to the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights — anchoring the High Commissioner’s interventions in cases involving human rights issues and leading the writing of amicus curiae submissions to the European Court of Human Rights and the United States Supreme Court. At various times, he also served as a Senior Prosecutor at the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda and the Special Court for Sierra Leone.

As a legal scholar, Judge Eboe-Osuji is currently the Distinguished International Jurist at the Lincoln Alexander School of Law at the Toronto Metropolitan University, Canada (and the Special Advisor to the President of the University); as well as the Paul Martin Senior Professor of Political Science, International Relations and Law, at the University of Windsor, Canada; and Visiting Professor of Law at the University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA) School of Law. He has also held academic appointments as the Herman Phleger Visiting Professor of Law at the Stanford University Law School; Senior Fellow at the Carr Center of the Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University; and an Adjunct Professor of International Criminal Law at the University of Ottawa, Canada.

He has an extensive record of legal scholarship and publications, including the celebrated book International Law and Sexual Violence in Armed Conflicts; as well as Protecting Humanity (ed.). He is the Editor-in-Chief of both the Nigerian Yearbook of International Law; and of the Canadian Review of International Law and Policy.

Judge Dr. Chile Eboe-Osuji is the first official (incumbent or retired) from ICC to receive the prestigious Goler T Butcher Medal from the American Society of International Law.

Ladies & Gentlemen, we proudly invite His Excellency, Judge Chile Eboe-Osuji to receive the “Hallmarks of Labour-Emeka Anyaoku Life-Time Achievement Award to Nigeria’s Outstanding International Icon”.

Congratulations Sir!