When ace actor Richard Mofe-Damijo was named the Entertainment Icon of 2021 with other notable Nigerians and corporate bodies at the Independent Newspapers Limited (INL) annual award ceremony, it was a momentous day for dignitaries around Nigeria. INL is the publisher of the Daily and Weekend Independent newspapers.

The event, themed “Celebrating Trailblazers,” took place at the luxurious Eko Hotel and Suites in Lagos’ Convention Centre. It featured notable corporate citizens and Nigerians who have made a name for themselves as leaders and genuine servants of the people in their respective industries.

Alhaji Abdul Samad Rabiu (CON), chairman of BUA Group, is among the recipients of awards. He was named the 2021 Personality of the Year for his contributions to economic development and job creation during the designated period as well as for his various interventions through his Abdul Samad Rabiu (ASR) initiative, which he used to help develop vital social infrastructure, especially in the areas of health and education, throughout the nation.

Along with Dr. (Mrs.) Seinye O. B. Lulu-Briggs, the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Moni Pulo (Petroleum Development) Limited, Rabiu received recognition in that area. In addition, the three elder statesmen Prince Arthur Eze, Chairman/CEO of Atlas Oranto Petroleum; Dr. Ernest Ndukwe (OFR), Chairman of MTN Nigeria Plc; and Chief E.K. Clark received the 2021 Lifetime Achievement Award for their contributions to humanity throughout the years.

The 2021 Minister of the Year Award went to Rotimi Amaechi, the Minister of Transportation, and Senator Godswill Akpabio, the Minister of Niger-Delta. The 2021 Lawmaker of the Year (House of Representatives) went to Hon. Ndudi Elumelu, the Minority Leader of the House of Representatives, and the 2021 Lawmaker of the Year (Senate) went to Sen. Aliyu Wamako, the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Defense. Additionally, the Lagos State House of Assembly’s Chief Whip, Hon. Mojisola Meranda, was named the city’s 2021 Lawmaker of the Year.