By Chinelo Obogo and Seye Ojo
Lagos was the epicenter of celebration on yesterday evening as The Sun Publishing Limited hosted its prestigious annual event, ‘The Sun Awards 2024.’
The ceremony honoured distinguished Nigerians who have made remarkable contributions to national development, showcasing resilience, excellence, and the indomitable spirit of the nation.
The Chairman/Publisher of The Sun Publishing Limited, Barrister Neya Kalu, set the tone for the evening with an inspiring opening address.
She described The Sun Awards as a beacon of hope, celebrating individuals who have refused to be defined by the nation’s challenges.
“This event shines a spotlight on individuals who rise above challenges, demonstrating the hope that defines our great nation, Nigeria,” Kalu said.
She praised the awardees for their courage and resilience, stating, “it is easy to lose sight of our dreams and aspirations amid the testing times we face. Yet, many of you have demonstrated exceptional courage. You have not allowed adversity to extinguish your spirit.”
She described the honourees as beacons of hope, whose accomplishments not only uplift themselves, but also inspire others to contribute to national development.
The publisher emphasised that the achievements of the awardees are not just personal victories, but pivotal contributions to Nigeria’s growth.
“Together, we can overcome obstacles. With hope as our guide and resilience as our armour, we will emerge stronger,” she concluded.
In his welcome address, the Managing Director/Editor-in-Chief of The Sun Publishing Limited, Mr Onuoha Ukeh, highlighted the unique aspects of this year’s awards.
Ukeh noted that the 2024 edition of The Sun Award is historic in many ways because for the first time, women were named “Man of the Year.”
He explained that the title “Man of the Year” is not gender-specific, but rather a recognition of excellence and outstanding impact in society.
“The bold decision of our Board of Editors to name two women ‘Man of the Year’ has sparked both applause and debate, with some wondering why a woman or women would be receiving an award with a ‘masculine moniker,’” Ukeh said.
He emphasised that the award is about recognising excellence, not gender, and challenged outdated stereotypes that limit women’s achievements.
Ukeh also highlighted other unique aspects of the event, including the presence of both a male and female chairman of the occasion and the celebration of an awardee’s birthday.
He wished Senator Aliyu Wamakko, who turned 72 on the day of the event, a happy birthday.
Ukeh used the platform to celebrate the achievements of women, particularly in a month when the world marks International Women’s Day.
He praised women for breaking down barriers and shattering glass ceilings in various fields, redefining what it means to be leaders, innovators, and achievers.
“Women’s tireless work, dedication, and perseverance have earned them a reputation as leaders and change-makers,” Ukeh said.