From Kenneth Udeh, Abuja
Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Abia State Governor Alex Otti are among prominent Nigerians set to be honoured at the 2025 Nigeria Golden Hearts Awards International, scheduled for September 14, 2025, at the Hilton Leeds City Hotel in the United Kingdom.
In a statement released over the weekend, Executive Director of the awards, Festus Odunze, said the event is designed to celebrate excellence, impactful leadership, and outstanding contributions to national development.
Senator Akpabio is being recognised for his role in fostering stability and effective legislative operations within the National Assembly, as well as his support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. Governor Otti will be celebrated for his ongoing transformation of Abia State, particularly in infrastructure and governance reforms.
Also slated for recognition is Abigail Marshall Katung, the historic 130th Mayor of Leeds and the first African to hold the office. Other awardees include Ebonyi State First Lady Mary-Maudline Nwifuru for her advocacy in gender equity and healthcare delivery; Senate Minority Leader Patrick Abba Moro; Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong; Hon. Kama Nkemkanma; Hon. Bello El-Rufai; Hon. George Alli; Rev. Godfrey Osemwegie; Dr. Raymond Asemakaha; and renowned industrialist Prof. Obiora Okonkwo.
This year’s theme, “Celebrating the Giant Strides of Unsung Heroes”, underscores the ceremony’s focus on spotlighting individuals making significant yet underreported impacts.
The event will also witness the unveiling of the 9th edition of the Nigeria Golden Hearts Magazine, with Senate President Akpabio featured as the cover personality.
Organisers say the awards aim to counter negative stereotypes about Nigeria by highlighting leadership, service, and excellence. The event will further serve as a networking platform for honourees and members of the Nigerian diaspora in the UK.