Goronyo Wins Pan-African Award For Outstanding Contributions To Nat'l Devt

BY CHIKA OKEKE, Abuja

L-R: President, Youth Partnership for African Development (YOUPAD), Comrade Nwankwo Henry presenting Thomas Sankara Pan African Leadership Prize For Excellence and Icon of Selfless and Innovative Leadership Award to the Minister of State for Works, Bello Muhammad Goronyo on Thursday in Abuja.

Minister of State for Works, Bello Muhammad Goronyo has been honoured with a Pan-African award for his outstanding contributions to governance, leadership and national development.

The prestigious Thomas Sankara African Leadership Prize was bestowed on Goronyo as an Icon of Selfless and Innovative Leadership in acknowledgment of his contributions.

In his acceptance speech over the weekend in Abuja, the minister thanked the Youth Partnership for African Development (YOUPAD) for the recognition. 

He reaffirmed his commitment to national development and sustainable progress across Africa, emphasising the importance of collective efforts in achieving a prosperous and peaceful continent.

The Thomas Sankara Pan-African Leadership Prize is bestowed upon individuals who embody selfless service, integrity, and an unwavering dedication to societal advancement. 

Goronyo’s leadership has been marked by innovation, commitment, and an unwavering dedication to public service. 

The minister noted that while he had previously declined multiple awards offers to remain focused in delivering his mandate under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's administration, he was compelled by the remarkable credibility and legacy of Thomas Sankara African Leadership Prize to accept the distinguished honour, being his first since assuming office.

He said: "I want to use this opportunity to commend President Tinubu for embarking on numerous infrastructure projects, particularly road and bridge development, which are the backbone of economic growth. Without road infrastructure, nothing can be achieved, as it remains the key driver of the economy."

Goronyo's significant contributions to Nigeria’s infrastructure development—particularly in public works—have not only improved the  water, sanitation and road sectors but also stimulated economic growth and reinforced national cohesion.

His exemplary service remains a source of inspiration for many across the African continent.

In his vote of thanks, the Managing Director of Federal Roads Maintenance Agency (FERMA), Engr. Chukwuemeka Agbasi praised  YOUPAD for recognising a visionary leader, dedicated to transforming lives and building a better future for Nigerians and Africans generally.

This was contained in a press statement by the Director, Press and Public Relations in the ministry, Mohammed A. Ahmed over the weekend in Abuja.