<h3 data-section-id="ugvodh" data-start="46" data-end="62"><span role="text"><strong data-start="50" data-end="62">Citation</strong></span></h3> <p data-start="64" data-end="294">Professor <strong data-start="74" data-end="105">Adeyinka Gladys Falusi, FAS</strong>, is a distinguished Nigerian geneticist and medical researcher whose remarkable contributions have profoundly advanced the fields of human genetics and public health in Nigeria and beyond.</p> <p data-start="296" data-end="695">Widely recognised for her pioneering research on <strong data-start="345" data-end="368">sickle cell disease</strong>, Professor Falusi has made significant contributions to improving diagnosis, deepening scientific understanding, and expanding public awareness of one of Nigeria’s most pressing genetic health challenges. Her work has helped shape more effective models of patient care and strengthened national responses to genetic disorders.</p> <h3 data-section-id="1jkc6m9" data-start="702" data-end="757"><span role="text"><strong data-start="706" data-end="757"> Research, Scholarship, and Public Health Impact</strong></span></h3> <p data-start="759" data-end="869">Through decades of dedicated scientific inquiry, Professor Falusi has consistently demonstrated excellence in:</p> <ul data-start="870" data-end="977"> <li data-section-id="19nnc96" data-start="870" data-end="897">Human genetics research</li> <li data-section-id="4m12m5" data-start="898" data-end="927">Public health advancement</li> <li data-section-id="19bg9t5" data-start="928" data-end="951">Medical scholarship</li> <li data-section-id="k7eoi4" data-start="952" data-end="977">Healthcare innovation</li> </ul> <p data-start="979" data-end="1156">Her research has enhanced understanding of genetic disorders while contributing meaningfully to improved healthcare outcomes and policy awareness within Nigeria’s health sector.</p> <h3 data-section-id="pms3eh" data-start="1163" data-end="1214"><span role="text"><strong data-start="1167" data-end="1214"> Teaching, Mentorship, and Capacity Building</strong></span></h3> <p data-start="1216" data-end="1346">Beyond her groundbreaking research, Professor Falusi has played a vital role in teaching and mentorship, nurturing generations of:</p> <ul data-start="1347" data-end="1414"> <li data-section-id="1tsk0qb" data-start="1347" data-end="1361">Scientists</li> <li data-section-id="m6z8wu" data-start="1362" data-end="1385">Medical researchers</li> <li data-section-id="afjgd5" data-start="1386" data-end="1414">Healthcare professionals</li> </ul> <p data-start="1416" data-end="1658">Her strong commitment to capacity building has reinforced the foundations of medical research within Nigerian universities and scientific institutions, ensuring that scientific inquiry continues to address critical national health priorities.</p> <h3 data-section-id="1ojby01" data-start="1665" data-end="1694"><span role="text"><strong data-start="1669" data-end="1694"> Leadership and Legacy</strong></span></h3> <p data-start="1696" data-end="1941">Through her scholarship, leadership, and dedicated service, Professor Falusi has strengthened both the knowledge and practice of genetics in Nigeria. She remains widely respected as a leading voice in genetic research and healthcare development.</p> <p data-start="1943" data-end="2053">Her distinguished career reflects a legacy of scientific excellence, mentorship, and impactful public service.</p> <h3 data-section-id="1u957ut" data-start="2060" data-end="2078"><span role="text"><strong data-start="2064" data-end="2078"> Conclusion</strong></span></h3> <p data-start="2080" data-end="2101">Ladies and Gentlemen,</p> <p data-start="2103" data-end="2326">For her outstanding contributions to science, her dedication to mentoring future generations, and her enduring impact on public health, <strong data-start="2239" data-end="2280">Professor Adeyinka Gladys Falusi, FAS</strong>, is most worthy of this distinguished honour.</p> <p data-start="2333" data-end="2371" data-is-last-node="" data-is-only-node=""><strong data-start="2333" data-end="2371" data-is-last-node=""> Congratulations, Professor Falusi!</strong></p>

<h3 data-section-id="ugvodh" data-start="42" data-end="58"><span role="text"><strong data-start="46" data-end="58">Citation</strong></span></h3> <p data-start="60" data-end="298">Chief <strong data-start="66" data-end="97">Akinlolu Olujinmi, SAN, CON</strong>, is an eminent legal practitioner and distinguished statesman whose career has been defined by principled service, professional excellence, and an unwavering commitment to justice and the rule of law.</p> <p data-start="300" data-end="575">As <strong data-start="303" data-end="365">Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice</strong>, he played a pivotal role in strengthening legal administration, upholding constitutional governance, and advancing reforms that enhanced the efficiency, credibility, and integrity of Nigeria’s justice system.</p> <h3 data-section-id="jls9eb" data-start="582" data-end="634"><span role="text"><strong data-start="586" data-end="634"> Professional Excellence and National Service</strong></span></h3> <p data-start="636" data-end="824">A highly respected <strong data-start="655" data-end="691">Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN)</strong> and recipient of the national honour of <strong data-start="732" data-end="777">Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON)</strong>, Chief Olujinmi distinguished himself through:</p> <ul data-start="825" data-end="970"> <li data-section-id="vn1300" data-start="825" data-end="850">Courageous leadership</li> <li data-section-id="i78f0k" data-start="851" data-end="877">Professional integrity</li> <li data-section-id="1urvozc" data-start="878" data-end="921">Dedication to constitutional principles</li> <li data-section-id="weh7xj" data-start="922" data-end="970">Commitment to due process and accountability</li> </ul> <p data-start="972" data-end="1154">His work in both public and private legal practice contributed significantly to reinforcing the foundations of fairness, transparency, and justice within Nigeria’s democratic system.</p> <h3 data-section-id="7kz7c4" data-start="1161" data-end="1203"><span role="text"><strong data-start="1165" data-end="1203"> Leadership in the Legal Profession</strong></span></h3> <p data-start="1205" data-end="1346">Beyond public office, Chief Olujinmi has remained a respected voice within the legal community, consistently embodying the highest ideals of:</p> <ul data-start="1347" data-end="1414"> <li data-section-id="8d857w" data-start="1347" data-end="1359">Advocacy</li> <li data-section-id="1mvumbz" data-start="1360" data-end="1382">Ethical leadership</li> <li data-section-id="ccljwv" data-start="1383" data-end="1414">Professional responsibility</li> </ul> <p data-start="1416" data-end="1575">His distinguished career serves as a powerful testament to the enduring importance of integrity, impartiality, and excellence in the administration of justice.</p> <h3 data-section-id="1u957ut" data-start="1582" data-end="1600"><span role="text"><strong data-start="1586" data-end="1600"> Conclusion</strong></span></h3> <p data-start="1602" data-end="1623">Ladies and Gentlemen,</p> <p data-start="1625" data-end="1855">For his exemplary leadership, courageous defence of the law, and lasting contributions to the advancement of Nigeria’s legal system, we proudly invite <strong data-start="1776" data-end="1813">Chief Akinlolu Olujinmi, SAN, CON</strong>, to receive the <strong data-start="1830" data-end="1854">HLF Role Model Award</strong>.</p> <p data-start="1862" data-end="1894" data-is-last-node="" data-is-only-node=""><strong data-start="1862" data-end="1894" data-is-last-node=""> Hearty Congratulations, Sir!</strong></p>

<p class="isSelectedEnd">I am delighted to welcome you all to this celebration of the 29th anniversary of the Hallmarks of Labour Foundation.</p> <p class="isSelectedEnd">We will shortly be showing a brief documentary that serves as a useful introduction to the Hallmarks of Labour Foundation, including the pinnacle of its activities, which is the much-coveted recognition and award to individuals whose character and career have made them role models, especially for our young people.</p> <p class="isSelectedEnd">We shall today be presenting awards to 13 such individuals. We shall also, for the first time, be according this honour posthumously to 3 people whose lives and achievements, by general consent, have earned them similar recognition.</p> <p class="isSelectedEnd">It is widely lamented, especially among people of my generation—and I am now 93 years of age—that societal values in Nigeria have degenerated to a very low point.</p> <p class="isSelectedEnd">In my young school days, examination malpractice was an unknown phenomenon; but now, even some parents and guardians help their children to cheat and obtain unmerited examination certificates. The prevalent culture at the time, both in schools and in other areas of human endeavour, was that success must be preceded by hard work.</p> <p class="isSelectedEnd">And in my young adult working years, corruption, wherever it occurred, was a subject of open chastisement. The looting of public funds on the grand scale at which it happens today, and the general adoration of wealth irrespective of how it is acquired by churches and mosques, which welcome large donations, and communities, which bestow chieftaincy titles on the wealthy, were generally frowned upon.</p> <p class="isSelectedEnd">The essence of the Role Model Awards by the HLF, which are being presented tonight, is to encourage our young and not-so-young people to learn to imbibe the values that prevailed in our society in those halcyon days. They should learn that success in every human endeavour is a result of hard work; that integrity is the most important possession of every person; in short, that every individual’s life should be guided by the famous saying often attributed to the evangelist Billy Graham: when wealth is lost, nothing is lost; when health is lost, something is lost; when character is lost, all is lost.</p> <p class="isSelectedEnd">As our young people of today face the national challenge of mass poverty and youth unemployment, my advice to them is that in planning their studies, they should choose areas that would equip them for self-reliance. They should choose occupations in areas where their focus would be on production, such as industry and manufacturing; agriculture and agro-allied industry; ICT and digitalisation; or general entrepreneurship. And those who choose a career in politics should ensure that they are driven by a desire to render service to the public.</p> <p class="isSelectedEnd">I would want to conclude my brief remarks by congratulating all the recipients of the awards this evening, and by urging you all to enjoy the social aspect of this evening’s gathering by meeting new friends and chatting with old friends; and finally, of course, by enjoying the food to be served.</p>   <strong>Chief Emeka Anyaoku, GCON, CFR, HLF</strong>

<div class="flex flex-col text-sm pb-25"><article class="text-token-text-primary w-full focus:outline-none [--shadow-height:45px] has-data-writing-block:pointer-events-none has-data-writing-block:-mt-(--shadow-height) has-data-writing-block:pt-(--shadow-height) [&:has([data-writing-block])>*]:pointer-events-auto scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" tabindex="-1" data-turn-id="request-WEB:1fba3ca9-f881-4a54-882a-143f40a3ee4b-0" data-testid="conversation-turn-2" data-scroll-anchor="true" data-turn="assistant"> <div class="text-base my-auto mx-auto pb-10 [--thread-content-margin:var(--thread-content-margin-xs,calc(var(--spacing)*4))] @w-sm/main:[--thread-content-margin:var(--thread-content-margin-sm,calc(var(--spacing)*6))] @w-lg/main:[--thread-content-margin:var(--thread-content-margin-lg,calc(var(--spacing)*16))] px-(--thread-content-margin)"> <div class="[--thread-content-max-width:40rem] @w-lg/main:[--thread-content-max-width:48rem] mx-auto max-w-(--thread-content-max-width) flex-1 group/turn-messages focus-visible:outline-hidden relative flex w-full min-w-0 flex-col agent-turn" tabindex="-1"> <div class="flex max-w-full flex-col gap-4 grow"> <div class="min-h-8 text-message relative flex w-full flex-col items-end gap-2 text-start break-words whitespace-normal [.text-message+&]:mt-1" dir="auto" data-message-author-role="assistant" data-message-id="bee2d8c5-6e40-4e91-b0c5-137ba0ff74e8" data-message-model-slug="gpt-5-3"> <div class="flex w-full flex-col gap-1 empty:hidden"> <div class="markdown prose dark:prose-invert w-full wrap-break-word light markdown-new-styling"> <p data-start="0" data-end="237"><strong data-start="0" data-end="237">GOODWILL MESSAGE<br data-start="18" data-end="21" />BY HIS EXCELLENCY, THE SENATOR,<br data-start="52" data-end="55" />OTUNBA ENGR. GBENGA DANIEL, FNSE, FAEng, FNIMechE<br data-start="104" data-end="107" />AT THE PUBLIC PRESENTATION OF <em data-start="137" data-end="158">HALLMARKS OF LABOUR</em> BOOK –<br data-start="165" data-end="168" data-is-only-node="" />SPECIAL EDITION SERIES FEATURING CHIEF PHILIP ASIODU, CFR, CON, HLR</strong></p> <p data-start="239" data-end="606">I am delighted to celebrate this special edition of the <em data-start="295" data-end="316">Hallmarks of Labour</em> book, dedicated to the towering legacy of an icon, <strong data-start="368" data-end="416">Chief Philip Chikwuedo Asiodu, CFR, CON, HLR</strong>. Undoubtedly, his remarkable journey embodies excellence, integrity, and uncommon devotion to national advancement. This presentation reinforces the enduring value of purposeful leadership.</p> <p data-start="608" data-end="973">Chief Philip Asiodu stands as an exemplary elder statesman whose influence continues to shape institutional growth and policy evolution in Nigeria. His sterling service as a civil servant, economist, entrepreneur, diplomat, and former Minister of Petroleum reflects a lifetime of disciplined commitment. His story offers guidance for present and future generations.</p> <p data-start="975" data-end="1344">This special publication, <strong data-start="1001" data-end="1042">“A Legacy of Dedication and Service,”</strong> captures the depth of his contributions with admirable clarity. It highlights his unwavering resolve, far-reaching intellect, and patriotic courage. By documenting his impact, the author, <strong data-start="1231" data-end="1265">Chief Patricia Otuedon-Arawore</strong>, has successfully preserved a heritage that motivates responsible citizenship.</p> <p data-start="1346" data-end="1595">I commend the <strong data-start="1360" data-end="1425">Board of Trustees of the Hallmarks of Labour Foundation (HLF)</strong> for spotlighting a national treasure whose accomplishments uplift our collective aspirations. May this edition inspire renewed devotion to excellence across all sectors.</p> <p data-start="1597" data-end="1735">I extend heartfelt congratulations to <strong data-start="1635" data-end="1651">Chief Asiodu</strong> on this milestone and wish him continued grace, strength, and enduring fulfillment.</p> <p data-start="1737" data-end="1898" data-is-last-node="" data-is-only-node=""><strong data-start="1737" data-end="1768">His Excellency, The Senator</strong><br data-start="1768" data-end="1771" /><strong data-start="1771" data-end="1824">Otunba Engr. Gbenga Daniel, FNSE, FAEng, FNIMechE</strong><br data-start="1824" data-end="1827" />Governor of Ogun State (2003–2011)<br data-start="1861" data-end="1864" />Chairman, Senate Committee on Navy</p> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="z-0 flex min-h-[46px] justify-start"></div> <div class="mt-3 w-full empty:hidden"> <div class="text-center"></div> </div> </div> </div> </article></div> <div class="pointer-events-none h-px w-px absolute bottom-0" aria-hidden="true" data-edge="true"></div>

<p class="p1">On behalf of the Chairman, Board of Trustees His Excellency, Amb. Dr Christopher Kolade, we welcome you to the Hallmarks of Labour Foundation's 27" Anniversary and Role Model Awards.</p> <p class="p1">These many years apparently gone so quickly have not been without challenges even as the Foundation remains determined in its resolve that our country Nigeria is a Great Nation, Hence, we are gathered here again to celebrate another set of Nigerians who can match their counterparts elsewhere in the world. A look at our HLF Roll-Call is a testimony to the fact.</p> <p class="p1">Every country has their share of men and women of note, who have made their marks and left their foot-prints on the sands of time.</p> <p class="p1">However, their achievements are not always adequately celebrated or chronicled. We at the Hallmarks of Labour Foundation believe that this should not be so; that there should be a Roll of Honour of great achievers who in their areas of specialisation have done Nigeria proud, and become veritable role models for our young and future generations.</p> <p class="p1">Over the years, the Foundation has projected and documented the achievements of these worthy patriots for the present and future generations, in a series titled Hallmarks of Labour. Copies of published editions, now in its 12' Volume, are available for Preview and sale.</p> <p class="p1">As a country Nigeria has so much to thank God for. We remain firm believers that Nigeria will continue to rise and take its rightful place among the Comity of Nations and the signs abound. We are blessed with abundant Natural as well as Human Resources. It is time now for us all, We the People, to stop blaming everyone else but ourselves. We should begin to apply ourselves -- as parents, guardians, teachers & leaders - - by the values we pass on to our children and wards. Our dedication to</p> <p class="p1">Patricia Otuedon-Arawore</p> <p class="p1">(Executive Secretary)</p> <p class="p1">our duties, to our people and country - public and private sector work-places; Executive, Legislature & Judiciary, Academia, Commerce & Industry, etc. -- will impact significantly on what our country becomes in the future. We should all join hands to help build the Nigeria of our dreams.</p> <p class="p1">This is a task for us all without exception, as we have no other country to call our own. The lessons of history are profound.</p> <p class="p1">The Celebration of these Great Nigerians today demonstrates that Nigeria is a reservoir of noble men and women, who by dint of hard-work and integrity, have made their marks in their fields of endeavour and with positive impact on the wider society.</p> <p class="p1">Till date, the Foundation has identified and presented 90 Role Models with exemplary achievements. It is our hope that our younger generations will emulate them for the benefit of a greater Nigeria.</p> <p class="p1">Ladies and Gentlemen, as we wish you a fulfilling experience at the twin event, we really appreciate your esteemed presence.</p> <p class="p1">Thank you all for coming.</p> <strong>Executive Secretary,</strong> <p class="p1"><strong>Patricia Otuedon-Arawore</strong></p> <p class="p1"></p>

One of the notable blessings of the nation of Nigeria has been the life and work of the late <strong>Professor Umaru Shehu</strong>, who passed into glory on 2"' October, 2023. He was not only an eminent Professor of Medicine, a man of respectable academic intellect; he also served as Vice Chancellor and Pro Chancellor at a number of Nigerian Universities. His additional distinction was that he was the pioneer Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the <strong>Hallmarks of Labour Foundation (HLF)</strong>, the principal champion of the Foundation's concept and philosophy of quality performance, and the leader of its activities for 26 years. His own performance was exemplary in every respect, and he practiced the standards that he preached. He demonstrated foresight in ensuring the Foundation's interaction with youngsters in educational institutions, promoting the integration of performance excellence into their development. The Foundation mourns his departure, and is determined to secure and sustain his enviable legacy in the Nigerian nation. In making these Awards tonight, the Foundation is grateful to Committees of previous Award winners and others who served as Assessors of nominees, and confirmed their worthiness for receiving the honour. The Trustees of the Foundation also register their appreciation of the tireless efforts of their Executive Secretary, <strong>Mrs Patricia Otuedon-Arawore</strong>, whose light shines ever brighter as she organizes the ongoing activities of the HLF and ensures the smooth running or these annual award events. Hearty congratulations to the new Award Winners on this 27th Anniversary of the Hallmarks of Labour Foundation. Tonight, our Award winners stand out as distinguished Nigerians whose exemplary contributions are being marked and recognized by all. We are delighted and excited to identify them, showcase them and celebrate them as people who are acknowledged as highly worthy of emulation as we all collaborate to build Nigeria into a great nation whose citizens work together, at home and beyond, to establish and sustain success and distinction through excellence of real performance. Chairman Amb. Dr. Christopher Kolade <strong>Lagos, 20 April 2024.</strong>

<p class="p3">I am delighted to welcome you all to this celebration of the 27<span class="s1">^th</span>anniversary of the Hallmarks of Labour Foundation (HLF) and Awards to our citizens whose character and achievements have made them role models for our young and upcoming Nigerians.</p> <p class="p3">But first, I would like us to stand up and observe one-minute silence in tribute to the memory of our recently departed role models: Prof Nimi Briggs in April 2023, Otunba Subomi Balogun in May 2023, Prof Jo Irukwu in July 2023, Emeritus Prof Umaru Shehu on October 2023, and Dr Ogbonnaya Onu in April 2024. May their souls rest in peace.</p> <p class="p3">HLF founded 27 years ago and driven by its indefatigable Executive Secretary Mrs Patricia Otuedon=Arawore, has without any doubt become one of Nigeria’s most highly respected not-for-profit organizations because of its remarkable work.</p> <p class="p3">The crux of its activities embraces a unique service to our young generation by identifying and honouring citizens who by their character and careers are considered to be role models for our young people. The role models are conferred with the prestigious award of HLF.</p> <p class="p3">The Foundation as you will see from the video to be presented shortly, also carries out very valuable charitable activities in support of schools, indigent students, widows and women in general.</p> <p class="p3">The recipients of the HLF award over the years have included to name just a few, such outstanding Nigerians as the late Chief Rotimi Williams SAN, Supreme Court Justice Chukwudifu Oputa, Pof Adeoye Lambo of WHO, Emeritus Prof Umaru Shehu, the Super Permanent Secretary Chief Philip Asiodu, the outstanding International diplomat Prof Ibrahim Gambari, the foreign policy intellectual and former Foreign Minister Prof Bolaji Akinyemi, and the current President of the African Development Bank Dr Akinwunmi Adesina.</p> <p class="p3">In the Nigerian society of today where ethical values have generally disappeared, the significance of recognizing and honouring individuals whose character and achievements are worth emulating by our young people cannot be overstated.</p> <p class="p3">In my young days, we were taught that success both in academic and every other undertaking came only from hard work; that integrity and character was the most important personal possession, as was succinctly expressed by the American evangelist, Billy Graham, who said: when wealth is lost, nothing is lost; when health is lost, something is lost; but when character is lost, everything is lost.</p> <p class="p3">For example, in those days, conducts such as examination malpractice, forgery of educational certificates and many other fraudulent activities that are reported every day in our media today were virtually non-existent. There was no place then like today’s “Oluwole Street” in Lagos.</p> <p class="p3">We should therefore applaud and heartily congratulate the Hallmarks of Labour Foundation, and especially its visionary Executive Secretary Patricia Otuedon-Arawore, for sustaining over the last 27 years its remarkable didactic activities for the benefit of our young people, and I may add for the benefit of even many of our adult population.</p> <p class="p3">Fnally, I would like to end my remarks by congratulating in advance the indisputably deserving individuals who will be receiving the awards of HLF at this event.</p> <p class="p3"><strong>Chief Emeka Anyaoku GCON,GCVO,CFR</strong></p> <p class="p3"><strong>Lagos, 20 April 2024.</strong></p>

The Chairman of the occasion, our beloved elder statesman, Diplomat and Former Secretary for Petroleum and Mineral Resources, Izoma Phillip Chukwuedo Asiodu, CFR, CON, HLR.   Your Excellency, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, Executive Governor of Borno State. Our worthy role model.   Your Excellency Engr. Abdullahi Audu Sule, Executive Governor of Nasarawa State.   Your Excellency Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, ably represented here by the Secretary of State to the Lagos State Government.   Our distinguished elder statesmen, Role Models and Great Nigerians who have worked tirelessly and have done Nigeria so proud and continue to give us hope for a better future.   Your Excellencies, Distinguished Ladies & Gentlemen, on behalf of our chairman board of trustees Emeritus Professor Umaru Shehu who unfortunately cannot be here today, we welcome you to the birth and public presentation of Hallmarks of Labour Book 11.   Years gone so quickly, when I remember that the first book in this series which focused on: <ol> <li>Professor Thomas Adeoye Lambo</li> <li>Honourable Justice Chukwudifu Akunne Oputa</li> <li>Mr. Allison Akene Ayida was published in 1999</li> </ol>   Since then many have followed and today, we celebrate book 11 a befitting tribute to hard work and resilience. Thanks be to God Almighty.   It has not been without challenges though particularly in our operating environment; however, the Foundation remains determined in its resolve that our country Nigeria is not a lost case, no no we are not!   We believe against all odds, that Nigeria boasts of men and women who can match their counterparts anywhere in the world and a look at our HLF roll call and book series is a testimony to the fact.   True, every country have their own share of men and women of note, who have made their marks and left their footprints on the sands of time. However, their achievements are not always adequately celebrated or chronicled. We at the Hallmarks of Labour Foundation believe that this should not be so; that there should be a Roll of Honour of great achievers who in their areas of specialization have done Nigeria proud, and have become veritable role models for our young and aspiring generations.   The Foundation will continue to project and document the achievements of these worthy patriots for the present and future generations. Copies of Hallmarks of Labour book series are there for you to see.   As a country Nigeria has so much to thank God for.   The 2023 elections have come and gone and a President elected. Despite all the negative speculations and pessimistic views, Nigeria stands tall. Before we went to the polls in February, Nigerians were worried and even scared. Christians, Moslems and Traditionalists prayed fervently for Divine intervention and that God’s Will be done; even as many had their different interpretations of God’s will.   <strong>None-the-less the Lord prevailed.</strong>   I remain a firm believer that Nigeria will continue to rise and take its rightful place among the comity of Nations and the signs abound. We are blessed with abundant Natural as well Human Resources. It is time for us all to support our leaders and help build the Nigeria of our dreams. We have no other country to call our own so we are duty-bound to make Nigeria a better place for us, our children, and our children’s children. The Hallmarks of Labour Foundation proudly presents Volume 11, which focuses on four distinguished gentlemen, Great Nigerians who unquestionably have served Nigeria selflessly with dignity and moral uprightness. They all have made valuable impact in their fields both in Nigeria and on the global stage. They are worthy patriots and outstanding role models for us all to emulate. Furthermore, the presentation of this publication re-enforces our belief that Nigeria is a reservoir of noble men and women, who by dint of hard-work and moral uprightness, can match and or surpass their counterparts anywhere in the world. Thus, if our society seems to be declining in morality, diligence and patriotism, it definitely emphasizes the urgent need for our youth and Nigerians in general to study and emulate the positive characteristics and achievements of these Great Nigerians for the benefit of this and future generations. To this end, the Foundation will continue to work hard towards achieving our aims and objectives: ❖ Identify Nigerians and people of the black race who have achieved success through hard-work, honesty and integrity in their fields of endeavour. ❖ Use the achievements of these role models to demonstrate to Nigerians that success through honest labour is rewarding and fulfilling. ❖Promote a positive attitude among Nigerians, especially the youths, and encourage them to reject fraud, dishonesty and greed as means to success. ❖ Help make Nigeria a decent society that attracts a pride of place in the comity of nations. Till date, the Foundation has identified and presented 90 Role models with impeccable credentials and exemplary achievements. It is our hope that our youths will emulate them for the benefit of a greater Nigeria. Ladies and Gentlemen, we proudly present to you: <ul> <li>HE, Professor Ibrahim Agboola Gambari -- CFR, OCORT, HLR</li> <li>HE, Professor Akinwande Bolaji Akinyemi -- CFR, Fniia, Faps, Fssan, Faia, HLR</li> <li>HE, Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu -- CON, FAEng, FAS, FNSE, FNSChE, HLR</li> <li>Professor Joseph Ogbonnaya Irukwu -- SAN, OON, NPOM, HLR,</li> </ul> I recommend this publication and others in the Hallmarks of Labourseries to everyone. You will find them inspiring. I welcome you all here again and wish you an enjoyable afternoon. I thank you all for coming.

<h3 style="text-align: center;"><strong>HALLMARKS OF LABOUR PRESENTATION OF BOOK XI CHAIRMAN'S OPENING REMARKS</strong> <strong>BY</strong> <strong>CHIEF PHILIP C. ASIODU, CFR, CON 1ST SEPTEMBER, 2023</strong></h3> Your Excellencies Our Royal Fathers Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen I am very delighted to join in welcoming you all to this presentation ofVol XI of Hallmarks of Labour by Chief Patricia Otuedon-Arawore. Vo1. XI contains the biographical profiles of four very distinguished Hallmarks of Labour Role Models : HE Prof. Ibrahim Gambari, HE Prof. Bolaji Akinyemi, HE Dr. Ogbonnaya Onu, and Prof. Joe lrukwu. It was a rare inspiration that made ChiefPatricia Otuedon-Arawore seek out and persuade a few eminent Nigerians to agree to serve as Trustees of Hallmarks of Labour Foundation. I now quote from ChiefPatricia Otuedon-Arawore's preface to V01.I or Book I of the series: "The idea of Hallmarks of Labour was conceived in the light of increasing collapse of our moral fabric and the tendency to enthrone mediocrity in the management of the affairs of the nation. The massive decay in our social structures is manifested in several ways, among which are corruption, human degradation and abuses of all sorts. The concept is essentially designed to promote the virtues of hard work, transparency, humility in leadership, excellence and selfless service, among others" That was in 1997, twenty two years after the military coup of 1975 which was followed by a massive purge of the Federal and State Civil Services, and parastatals, and academia, mostly without due process and which left the institutions demoralized. It also degraded the monitoring system which ensured disciplined, honest and transparent conduct with the assurance that hardwork and merit will be appropriately recognized and rewarded. That coup also led to the abandonment of the 1975 - 80 Plan, and indeed, the discipline of Planning and the strict implementation of plans. So we find ourselves in a much worse situation today. Our country now tethers at the brink of disintegration, anarchy, and genocide. But we must not despair. Before Covid-19 Pandemic disruption, a few "concerned Elders" in our meetings and consultations discovered that fortunately that there are several young people in all the states of our Federation who are not happy with the decline and degradation of the last five decades and desire genuine change. We must therefore invigorate our pursuit of the original vision of the Hallmarks of Labour Foundation Vision - of choosing and publicising Role Models who have achieved national and also international acclaim through hardwork, integrity, transparency, positive public-spirited service and so forth. We must endeavour to change the mindset of the youth, especially those who seek to engage themselves in the management of public affairs at any level. We must sway them away from the prevailing greedy addiction to immediate self- gratification and self-enrichment without caring about and damage to the long term interest and progress of our country and nation. The first Role Model selected in November, 1997 was Prof. Thomas Adeoye Lambo, CON, OBE, HLR. By 2022, the total number, I am told, is ninety from many professions and sectors, who have all rendered excellent service to our country and beyond. The four Role models featured in Book XI reflect this variety - all were professors in academia, three were federal ministers and all four headed very important national institutions. One of them, Dr Ogbonnaya Onu in his days in academia achieved several patents in Chemical Engineering. I hope our country "will soon exploit those patents. I must not delay you further from listening to the reviewer of the Book. Once again, I welcome you all to this presentation of Book XI of Hallmarks of Labour Foundation. I thank you for coming. ernes <strong>PHILIP C. ASIODU, CFR, CON, HLR LAGOS</strong> <strong>1ST SEPTEMBER, 2023</strong>

<strong>FROM THE EXECUTIVE SECRETARY</strong> Twenty-Five Years – a Quarter of a Century – is a long time in the life of an NGO; what with the challenges of the operating environment. Particularly, we have no external funding either from the Government or any international agency. When the project Hallmarks of Labour began in 1996, followed by the birth of the Hallmarks of Labour Book Series in 1999, we were confident, then and even more so now, that Nigeria is a reservoir of people; men and women who -- against all odds -- have embraced hard-work, with lofty achievements and dignity that can match or excel their contemporaries elsewhere in the world. Our list of Award Winners [HLRs] is a testimony to this fact. In 2019, the Foundation celebrated its 23^rd Anniversary and The Great Nigerian Awards. What a Re-Union it was for our Role Models! The event was memorable and well attended. Then came the Corona Virus [COVID-19] Pandemic that has ravaged the world for two years now. Indeed, the disease has constrained a great deal of our programmes and activities, but happily did not put the Foundation to sleep. In the midst of the challenges, the Foundation refurbished and equipped a library for an indigent public school in Anambra State -- Community Secondary School, Achina, Aguata Local Government Area. We are pleased to inform you that Foundation has named the library after one of Nigeria’s finest Scientists, Professor Uche Amazigo, <em>HLR</em> who hails from Achina. On a rather sad note, we regret to state that the Foundation lost a number of its eminent and active Role Models in the last two years: <ol> <li>Francesca Yetunde Emmanuel, CON, HLR -- First Female Federal Permanent Secretary in Nigeria.</li> <li>Professor Oladipo Olujumi Akinkugbe, CON, MD, NNOM, HLR -- Youngest Professor of Medicine ever appointed by an African University.</li> <li>His Excellency, Brigadier Mobolaji Johnson [Rtd.], HLR -- First Governor of Lagos State and 'Architect of Modern Lagos’.</li> <li>His Excellency, Alhaji Lateef Kayode Jakande, HLR -- ‘The Action Governor of Lagos State’.</li> <li>Professor Adetokunbo Oluwole Lucas, OFR, HLR -- A Leader in Global Medicine.</li> </ol> Though these Great Nigerians have passed on, they lived fulfilled lives that have impacted positively on society. They have certainly earned eternal rest in the bosom of Almighty God. Amen. We appreciate the resilience of the Board of Trustees, Management & Staff of the Foundation over the years. We also gratefully acknowledge the solid support of our Role Models, Corporate Partners and Sponsors in enabling the Foundation forge ahead. May Almighty God continue to use them as channels of blessings to human society. Welcome, once again, to our Anniversary Celebrations and Conferment of Role Model Awards. <strong>Chief Mrs. Patricia Dede Arawore</strong>

<strong>PROTOCOL</strong> <em>The Chairman of this occasion, Professor Patrick Muoboghare; the Honourable Commissioner of Education in Delta State, the Special Guest of Honour, His Royal Majesty, Atuwatse II, the Olu of Warri; my lords spiritual and temporal; community leaders, the principal [Mr. Emmanuel Oleju], staff & students of Egbokodo Secondary School; distinguished ladies & gentlemen. </em> <strong>************</strong> I salute and bring you warm greetings from the Chairman & other Trustees of Hallmarks of Labour Foundation, on this auspicious commissioning and hand-over of an Ultra Modern Science Laboratory to Egbokodo Secondary School, Warri.  I am particularly gratified that this project is dedicated to the memory of my father -- Uwangue Bernard Edema Otuedon-Okome, a community welfarist with a very generous heart – who passed unto glory some four months ago at a super-ripe age of 103. It is my prayer that we will live long and as fulfilled as he did. Hallmarks of Labour Foundation was set up, in 1996, to: <ul> <li>Identify Nigerians who have achieved success through hard work, honesty and integrity in their fields of endeavour.</li> <li>Project these Great Nigerians as Role Models of rewarding and fulfilling honest labour.</li> <li>Promote positive attitudes among the youths in particular; encouraging them to reject fraud, greed and impropriety as means to success.</li> </ul> In 2008, the Foundation turned a search light on the youths,<strong> focusing</strong> largely on young talented Nigerians; to mentor and provide them platforms to achieve their full potentials.  In the process, the Young Achievers’ Awards was initiated in 2011to contribute to: <ul> <li>Improved standards of education, especially in science, technology and communication – through healthy competition among schools.</li> <li>Development of leadership skills in young Nigerians.</li> <li>Generation of a crop of young Role Models for their contemporaries.</li> </ul> With the central theme <em>“Positioning Tomorrow’s Leaders to Achieve their Maximum Potentials”</em>, the Foundation has donated a range of educational equipment and welfare facilities to deserving schools and students. Included here are: <ul> <li>Laboratory equipment and Desktop Computers to the best-performing institutions in the 2011 West African School Certificate Examinations [WASCE] -- Lumen Christi International High School, Uromi, Edo State and Air Force Comprehensive School, Agbani, Enugu State.</li> <li>A fully-equipped computer room to the best performing school in the 2012 WASCE -- Presentation National High School, Benin City. On the nomination by the award winners, the Foundation donated a functional bore-hole and desktop computers to a disadvantaged institution, Queen of Apostles Nursery & Primary School, Shinge-Lafia, Nassarawa State.</li> <li>The HLF Secondary School Scholarship Scheme, which took off here in Warri in 2008 under the tag <strong>“Iwere Educational Rejuvenation“</strong> has yielded tremendous fruits. To date, over eighty (80) students have obtained their West African School Certificates under the Foundation’s sponsorship, while forty (40) of its scholars are currently enrolled in a number of post-primary schools in Delta and Lagos States. We urge parents and guardians to encourage their wards to pick up the Foundation Scholarship forms which come out annually and work hard to pass the qualifying examination. The scholarship award is strictly on merit.</li> </ul> We are here today to commission and hand over this ultra-modern science laboratory, indeed one of the best in Nigeria, to Egbokodo Secondary School. It is our prayer that the students here will find inspiration from this facility to motivate them to become great scientists. We congratulate you, the Principal, staff, students of Egbokodo Secondary School as well as the Egbokodo community; and urge you to protect and utilize the facility well. We also express our profound gratitude to our partners, Mobil Producing Nigeria Unlimited and Oilmen’s Invitational Golf Tournament Foundation for their continued support that has enabled the Foundation to fulfil its mandate. I thank your Majesty, Atuwatse II, the Olu of Warri, the Hon. Commissioner of Education, my Lord spiritual and temporal, our leaders of tomorrow, particularly, the students of Egbokodo Secondary School and all young people here present. It is for your sake that we have all gathered this morning. God bless you and thanks for coming!!!   <strong>PATRICIA OTUEDON-ARAWORE [Mrs.] </strong>        

<div id="m_-5815915173448799552AppleMailSignature" style="text-align: center;"><strong>CONTRIBUTION</strong></div> <div id="m_-5815915173448799552AppleMailSignature" style="text-align: center;"><strong>by</strong></div> <div id="m_-5815915173448799552AppleMailSignature" style="text-align: center;"><strong>Chief Folake Solanke, SAN CON</strong></div> <div id="m_-5815915173448799552AppleMailSignature" style="text-align: center;"><strong>AT THE RE-UNION AND SYMPOSIUM OF THE</strong></div> <div id="m_-5815915173448799552AppleMailSignature" style="text-align: center;"><strong>HALLMARKS OF LABOUR FOUNDATION FELLOWS.</strong></div> <div id="m_-5815915173448799552AppleMailSignature" style="text-align: center;"><strong>At the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs, Kofo Abayomi Street,</strong></div> <div id="m_-5815915173448799552AppleMailSignature" style="text-align: center;"><strong>Victorial Island, Lagos at <span class="aBn" tabindex="0" data-term="goog_1329663446"><span class="aQJ">10a.m.</span></span></strong></div> <div id="m_-5815915173448799552AppleMailSignature"></div> <div id="m_-5815915173448799552AppleMailSignature"><strong>PROTOCOL</strong></div> <div id="m_-5815915173448799552AppleMailSignature"></div> <div id="m_-5815915173448799552AppleMailSignature">Please permit me to make a short statement “in limine” before my 10 minutes contribution. I owe a debt of gratitude to the Hallmarks of Labour Foundation for being the first institution to recognize honour and decorate me with its prestigious fellowship in the year 2004. I am profoundly grateful to the Foundation for their early recognition of me. Since then, by divine grace, there has been a floodgate of honours. Praise God. I am truly humbled. Consequently, I wish to assure the Foundation Board of Trustees, that, if I ask questions, it is just because it is the nature of my profession to ask questions! Nothing sinister!</div> <div id="m_-5815915173448799552AppleMailSignature">I am delighted to be on the Symposium panel with Ambassador Professor Ibrahim Agboola Gambari for a very special reason. In 1995, as the Zonta International President, I sought an appointment with the then UN Secretary General, Boutros Boutros Ghali. I contacted Professor Gambari and he arranged it. I met with the Secretary General in New York, USA at the UN complex for about one hour. It was an insightful experience. Professor Gambari is a consummate Ambassador and an intellectual of distinction.</div> <div id="m_-5815915173448799552AppleMailSignature">All that is protocol!</div> <div id="m_-5815915173448799552AppleMailSignature">Now, to my 10 minutes contribution on: “The Challenges of the Youth in Nigeria: Where are the Role Models?” The topic flows from the main Theme of the celebration “id est”: “Restoring a Tolerant and Value–Driven Society in Nigeria”.</div> <div id="m_-5815915173448799552AppleMailSignature">Indeed we should all be concerned about the wrong attitudes and orientation of some of our youth. Where are the role models? I answer categorically: they are here in this very hall. We are all present here. All of us are the role models, or should be, the role models. We do not have to go and search for role models anywhere because we represent them.</div> <div id="m_-5815915173448799552AppleMailSignature">I will identify only four categories of role models because of time limitation:</div> <div id="m_-5815915173448799552AppleMailSignature">Parents</div> <div id="m_-5815915173448799552AppleMailSignature">School Teachers</div> <div id="m_-5815915173448799552AppleMailSignature">University professors and lecturers</div> <div id="m_-5815915173448799552AppleMailSignature">Politicians, e.g., legislators.</div> <div id="m_-5815915173448799552AppleMailSignature"></div> <div id="m_-5815915173448799552AppleMailSignature"><strong>PARENTS:</strong></div> <div id="m_-5815915173448799552AppleMailSignature">Parents bring children to this trouble-infected world. Consequently, as parents, we must discharge our primary God-given role to bring up our children so that they can distinguish between what is good and what is bad. Parents must not abandon their parental duty to school teachers. By our own behavior, we should be good examples. For instance, children must not see parents surreptitiously bring into the home loads of “Ghana must go” bags full of filthy money of different currencies in the dead of night! And we should be watchful and ask questions if our children bring in expensive articles or a lot of money. We need to know the source of such items.</div> <div id="m_-5815915173448799552AppleMailSignature"></div> <div id="m_-5815915173448799552AppleMailSignature"><strong>SCHOOL-TEACHERS</strong></div> <div id="m_-5815915173448799552AppleMailSignature">Teachers are “in loco parentis” to their pupils. They should build on the moral foundation which has been laid at home. Teachers must be true to their calling by making sure that they inculcate sound societal values in the children. Teachers betray their vocation by failing to train the children to abide by the very best behavorial principles and tested values, and by helping them to commit examination fraud. They must nurture their pupils to be academically sound and of good morality. Parents must support the teachers by attending Parents and Teachers Association in schools and not go to school to assault teachers because of complaints by their children.</div> <div id="m_-5815915173448799552AppleMailSignature"></div> <div id="m_-5815915173448799552AppleMailSignature"><strong>UNIVERSITIES:</strong></div> <div id="m_-5815915173448799552AppleMailSignature">Universities professors and lecturers should continue to fortify the academic moral and intellectual infrastructure which has been established by the parents and teachers. University teachers must be on top of their discipline and the subjects they teach. They must NOT exploit or abuse students, especially female students through sexual harassment. Successful examination results should be the only requirement for obtaining their degrees. Further, universities should not devalue the 1st class degree by awarding numerous first class degrees not based on genuine and brilliant examination performance. There has been universal outrage about the 120 “cut-off-point” for university admission and 100 “cut-off-point” for polytechnic admission. The quality of the graduates of some of our universities is abysmal enough. Some graduates are unemployable. Oh ye gods! We must not descend lower but must aim at a higher educational standard for our students. Professors and lecturers must produce knowledgeable and employable graduates by challenging their students to strive to achieve the highest level of scholarship. Nothing cheap.</div> <div id="m_-5815915173448799552AppleMailSignature"></div> <div id="m_-5815915173448799552AppleMailSignature"><strong>POLITICIANS:</strong></div> <div id="m_-5815915173448799552AppleMailSignature">Politicians rule the country. They must perform their crucial role of governance creditably and by so doing,  they will motivate children to aim high in order to contribute meaningfully to the society. They must not be attracted to politics by the mere love of obscene stolen money, but a determination to render qualitative service to the society. Some years ago, in Abuja, some pupils of a secondary school were taken to the House of Representatives to watch legislative proceedings. But what did they watch? -- mayhem, confusion, fisticuffs and missiles by way of chairs and tables, which were hurled through the air across that hallowed chamber! That fiasco was a horrendous example for the youth. I dare say that if the legislators were to have the correct attitude to their calling, some members, male and female, of our House of Representatives would not have converted their hallowed chamber into a pugilistic battlefield by engaging in “Kung Fu” or boxing or “gidigbo gidigbo e ya.” What the students were entertained with was a free-for-all gladiatorial combat and missile throwing by the so-called ‘honourable’ legislators. . .</div> <div id="m_-5815915173448799552AppleMailSignature">So as I said, we are all the role models –- we are here: parents, teachers, professors, lecturers and politicians”. I am included. There are other categories, such as churches, mosques, the chiefs.</div> <div id="m_-5815915173448799552AppleMailSignature"></div> <div id="m_-5815915173448799552AppleMailSignature">General Comment</div> <div id="m_-5815915173448799552AppleMailSignature">In peroration, we must be aware of:</div> <div id="m_-5815915173448799552AppleMailSignature">(a) What children watch on the Internet,</div> <div id="m_-5815915173448799552AppleMailSignature">(b) Children spend too much time sitting in front of the computer screen. Parents should ensure that their get enough exercise outside, in the fresh air and read physical books.</div> <div id="m_-5815915173448799552AppleMailSignature">(c) Children must regard the Internet as an additional educational facility, not a place to play games. The cut and paste mentality should not be relied upon to write papers! You are just copying other peoples’ input. Children must use their own brains and spend more time in creative thinking, not just staring into their cell phones sending endless text messages on Twitter, playing games, or receiving a relentless bombardment of information. True or false?</div> <div id="m_-5815915173448799552AppleMailSignature"></div> <div id="m_-5815915173448799552AppleMailSignature">I take this opportunity to apologize to the youth on behalf of my generation for the corruption which our youth now observe, and which is consuming the country by the egregious misconduct of some of my generation. I tell the youth to embrace what is good and noble. Some youth are now engaging in hate speech. Those in authority must condemn hate speech in any form, be it political propaganda or, otherwise by anyone.</div> <div id="m_-5815915173448799552AppleMailSignature">As parents, we should speak our indigenous languages at home so that our languages do not go into extinction. We have over 200 indigenous languages in Nigeria, we should celebrate this diversity and encourage all children to speak their Mother tongue. A good knowledge of the indigenous language is useful before learning English or any other language. Recently, history was restored to our school curriculum, this is a step in the right direction—if a child has no idea of the past, no idea of the Nigerian history--how do they know where they are going?</div> <div id="m_-5815915173448799552AppleMailSignature">I have much more to say, but I pause, because the competent executive secretary, Patricia, has so instructed!</div> <div id="m_-5815915173448799552AppleMailSignature">I thank you for your attention.</div> <div id="m_-5815915173448799552AppleMailSignature"></div> <div id="m_-5815915173448799552AppleMailSignature">Dated this ………………..day of ………………………2017.</div> <div id="m_-5815915173448799552AppleMailSignature"></div> <div id="m_-5815915173448799552AppleMailSignature"></div> <div id="m_-5815915173448799552AppleMailSignature"><strong>Chief ‘Folake Solanke  SAN, OON, CON</strong></div> <div id="m_-5815915173448799552AppleMailSignature"><strong>B.A., Dip.Ed., FNIALS, LL.D (h.c) HLF</strong></div> <div id="m_-5815915173448799552AppleMailSignature"><strong>D.Litt(h.c.), D.Lit.(h.c.), D. Litt.(h.c.)</strong></div>