<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>

<h3 style="text-align: center;">Prof Ekanem Braide (President, Nigerian Academy of Science): Oratory on Professor Christian Happi</h3> <img class="wp-image-8078 aligncenter" src="https://hallmarksoflabour.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/⁠Prof-Ekanem-Braide-e1717516375741-300x169.jpeg" alt="" width="711" height="400" /> Christian Happi is a Professor of Molecular Biology and Genomics. He is the Director of the World Bank-funded African Centre of Excellence for Genomics of Infectious Diseases (ACEGID) in Redeemer’s University, Ede, Osun State, Nigeria. After obtaining a Ph.D. from the University of Ibadan, Nigeria in 2000, he proceeded to Harvard University for his Post-Doctoral Fellowship, 2000-2003. He currently leads the joint WHO Africa Region/Africa Centres for Disease Control (AfCDC); providing information for programmatic action for the effective control of COVID-19 and other emerging pathogens in Africa. His research focus is on genomics of infectious diseases and human genomics. He diagnosed the first case of Ebola virus disease in Nigeria in 2014 and worked closely with Nigerian health authorities for the successful containment of the recent Ebola out-break in Nigeria. Using advanced genomics and deep sequencing technology, Professor Christian Happi and colleagues sequenced the first 99 Ebola virus genomes during the 2014-2016 West African Ebola out-break, and made these openly accessible to the international scientific and research community, thus, pioneering open- access genomics data. His team also developed the first rapid diagnostics test against Ebola Virus disease within 6 months of the 2014-2016 Ebola out-break in West Africa. The US FDA and WHO approved this diagnosis under emergency use authorisation. In 2007, Professor Happi developed and performed the first on-site molecular diagnosis of Lassa Fever in Nigeria, at the Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital (ISTH), Edo State, Nigeria. He has since worked with collaborators to develop a novel 5-minute rapid diagnosis test for Lassa Fever. These first genome sequencing of the Lassa Fever virus resulted in the acceleration of the development of Lassa fever vaccines, among which three (3) are currently undergoing clinical trials in Nigeria and other West African countries. Professor Happi, recently, used next generation sequencing technology to perform the first sequence of the new SARS-CoV-2 in Africa, within 48 hours of receiving sample of the first index case in Nigeria. Since then, he has performed genome sequencing of over 500 SARS-CoV-2 in Nigeria, along the line discovering the new B.1.525 variant of concern in Nigeria. This work on COVID-19 genomics has not only provided an insight into the detailed genetic map, origins, evolution, transmission and spread of the new corona virus in Nigeria and Africa but paved the way to his developing a new COVID-19 nucleic acid-based rapid (15mins) diagnostics test. His work has also resulted in the development of a COVID-19 vaccine candidate (COVID-Diovax). Professor Happi has received several prestigious national and International Awards for Innovation and Health Leadership. Professor Christian Happi embodies the passion, intellectual drive and innovative spirit that African scientific leaders need for discoveries that will help the continent stem its scientific and academic challenges. It is my pleasure to invite Professor Christian Happi to receive the Hallmarks of Labour Role Model Award for Outstanding Contributions in the Field of Science.

<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>