One of the notable blessings of the nation of Nigeria has been the life and work of the late Professor Umaru Shehu, 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 Hallmarks of Labour Foundation (HLF), 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, Mrs Patricia Otuedon-Arawore, 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
Lagos, 20 April 2024.