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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

Patricia Otuedon-Arawore

(Executive Secretary)

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.

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.

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.

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.

Ladies and Gentlemen, as we wish you a fulfilling experience at the twin event, we really appreciate your esteemed presence.

Thank you all for coming.

Executive Secretary,

Patricia Otuedon-Arawore