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September 15, 2025 by Chinyere Okoroafor
Amid hardship, insecurity, and tensions, Dr. Godknows Igali has urged Nigerians to build a more democratic nation through true federalism and adherence to the rule of law.
Igali, a former diplomat, spoke at the fifth anniversary of Diamond Excellence Awards, organised by Double Diamond Global Empowerment Initiative, on Saturday in Lagos.
Speaking on “Towards a Better Nigeria For Us All,” the national chair of Pan Niger Delta Forum, said Nigeria can only progress if citizens and leaders embrace collective responsibility.
“For a better Nigeria, there must be true federalism, and devolution of powers,” he said. “This will create healthy competition among states and regions. The law must rule, and all citizens must enjoy equal protection under the law.”
Igali stressed that Nigeria’s constitution must reflect the reality. “We must ensure we have a constitution that works for us – not Western, not American, not African, but Nigerian,” he added.
Noting our challenges, he said Nigeria is a “great black nation”, saying even old democracies still build. We must refine ours.”
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Among those honoured at the awards, which marked five years of recognising individuals and institutions, were Bankole Japherson, bishop of Mercy Tabernacle, and Bishop Stephen Adegbite, chair of CAN in Lagos State and executive secretary of Nigerian Christian Pilgrims Commission, represented by Bishop Taiwo Ajose and Rev. Simon Adekeye.
Others recognised included the Grand Patron of the event, Hon. Justice Bode Rhodes-Vivour, represented by his son Rotimi Vivour; the Chairman of the occasion, Pastor Ituah Ighodalo, Lead Pastor of Trinity House Assembly; and Assistant Inspector General of Police, Adegoke Fayode.
DDGEI Convener, Dr. Prince Obed Ezeonye, explained that award recipients are selected based on their positive societal impact. “We carefully mirror the society, search for them, and honour them for their contributions,” he said.
He also stressed that the event serves as a platform to discuss leadership challenges in Nigeria and Africa. Dr. Ezeonye, however, called for increased support from Nigerians and corporate organisations to sustain the initiative.
A total of 26 Nigerians were recognised for outstanding performance across various fields. They included Mr. John Ehiguise, CSP Ayuba Tunmi Umma, CSP Abu Michael Agu, Mrs. Mitchell Elegbe, ACP Amina Yakubu, DCP Adam Bello Muhammad, SP Lazarus Kali, Ngozi Uma, and Mr. James Otumala Uko. Corporate organisations such as Opay Fintech, Airtel, and Polaris Bank also received awards for their contributions to society and the economy.
English (US)