The organisers of the 2025 Nigeria’s Pride Awards have explained why Dangote Group and its Group Head of Corporate Communications, Anthony Chiejina, were among the top honourees at the event held in Abuja on September 30.
Dangote Group received the Chief Cornerstone of Business in Africa Award, while Chiejina emerged as The Most Impactful Corporate Marketing Officer of the Decade. Other recipients included the Governor of Ebonyi State, Francis Nwifuru, Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo, Senator Ireti Kingibe, Director General of the Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Jideani Agabaidu, Director General of CLTC, Hon. Rinsola Abiola, and Nollywood stars Tonto Dikeh and Empress Njamah.
The award ceremony was organised by First Green White Resources, publishers of African Leadership Scorecard Magazine and Nationwide Reports. It was chaired by former Special Adviser to the President on Niger Delta, Gen. Paul Boroh (Rtd), while the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, served as Guest Speaker. Dr. Sarah Jibrin, former Presidential Adviser on Ethics and Moral Values, was the Mother of the Day.
Speaking at a post-event press briefing in Abuja, Founder of First Green White Resources, Bonaventure Phillips Melah, said the awards were created to identify, recognise, appreciate and celebrate citizens, other nationals and organisations that distinguish themselves through selfless service, patriotism and exemplary leadership.
He described Dangote Group as truly the Chief Cornerstone of Business in Africa, noting that its founder, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, is a rare gift to Nigeria and Africa. He added that Dangote’s investments have transformed many economies across the continent and continue to promote industrial growth and development.
On Chiejina, Melah said he was a media colossus who has used his expertise and experience to make Dangote Group a household name with a credible reputation. According to him, Chiejina has ensured that the organisation maintained public trust despite attempts by detractors and competitors to tarnish its image.
Melah noted that the Group’s numerous subsidiaries, extensive workforce and ongoing expansion projects, including a 2.5 billion dollar fertilizer plant in Ethiopia, demonstrate its commitment to Africa’s economic progress.
“Dangote Group was therefore awarded the Chief Cornerstone of Business in Africa for these remarkable feats,” Melah said.
He added that the Nigeria’s Pride Awards will now be held annually as a side event to mark the anniversary of Nigeria’s independence.