Nigeria’s political, corporate, and professional elite converged in Abuja on February 5 as Daily Asset Newspaper hosted its 9th Annual Award Ceremony, recognising outstanding leadership and contributions to national development across key sectors.
The high-profile ceremony, held at the NICON Luxury Hotel, Central Business District, attracted state governors, senior government officials, ministers, lawmakers, business executives, diplomats, and industry leaders—reinforcing the growing national relevance of the Daily Asset Awards.
The event opened on a lively note with Master of Ceremonies Mr. Ibrahim Abdelatif, who welcomed guests and set the stage for an evening dedicated to excellence, service, and accountability. A live DJ kept the atmosphere vibrant, adding to the celebratory mood of the gathering.
Speaking at the event, the management of Daily Asset Newspaper reaffirmed that the awards remain a credible platform for spotlighting integrity, innovation, and sustained public service.
They explained that recipients were selected based on verifiable performance, measurable impact, and consistency, stressing the newspaper’s commitment to promoting good governance, accountability, and national development through responsible journalism.
Former President of the National Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Evelyn Onyilo, served as Chairlady of the ceremony, while Governor Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia of Benue State attended as Special Guest of Honour, adding prestige to the occasion.
Since its launch in 2017, the DAILY ASSET Awards have grown into a flagship event on Nigeria’s media and social calendar, consistently drawing top personalities from diverse sectors.
A major cultural highlight of the night was a colourful performance by the Tiv Cultural Group, whose energetic display of music, dance, and traditional drumming celebrated Nigeria’s cultural diversity and thrilled guests.
*Top Personalities Among Award Recipients*
Several high-ranking political leaders and influential public figures emerged as major highlights of the night.
Governor of the Year (Industrialisation & Economic Development) was awarded to Dr. Peter Mbah of Enugu State for policies driving industrial growth and economic expansion.
Governor of the Year (Infrastructure) went to Rt. Hon. Ahmadu Fintiri of Adamawa State, in recognition of large-scale infrastructure projects that have transformed the state into a major construction hub.
Man of the Year was conferred on Dr. Zacch Adedeji, Executive Chairman of the Nigeria Revenue Service, for spearheading reforms that have significantly improved Nigeria’s tax administration system.
In the legislative category, Senator Kawu Sumaila, representing Kano South Senatorial District, received Legislator of the Year for his consistent legislative activism, while Dr. Mustapha Salihu, APC National Vice Chairman (North-East Zone), was named Politician of the Year for strengthening party structures and leadership in the region.
*Other Award Winners*
Other honourees recognised for excellence in their respective fields included:
Brand of the Year: Opay Digital Services Limited
Bank of the Year: Fidelity Bank Plc
Philanthropist of the Year: Hon. (Dr.) Sampson Uchenna Charles, Chairman, ANOG Group of Companies
Philanthropist of the Year: Mr. Peter Adejoh, President/CEO, Camey and Rocks Holdings
Local Government Chairman of the Year: Hon. Peter Tanko Dogara, Jema’a LGA, Kaduna State
Minister of the Year (Peace & Livestock Sector Transformation): Alhaji Hon. Idi Mukhtar Maiaha
Iconic Corporate Achiever of the Year: Engr. Edwin Devakuma, Dangote Group
Best Chief Medical Director of the Year: Dr. Mustapha Abubakar Yaro, National Ear Care Centre, Kaduna
Public Servant of the Year: Dr. Kanyitor Chira Shaaka, Auditor-General for the Federation
*Lifetime Achievement Awards*
Lifetime honours were presented to Chief Steven Obekpa Lawani, OFR, CON, former Deputy Governor of Benue State and Chairman of ALD Group of Companies, and Chief Mamman Mike Osuman, SAN, OFR, National Chairman of the Arewa Consultative Forum, for their enduring contributions to public service and the legal profession.
The ceremony ended with goodwill messages, closing remarks, prayers, and the rendition of the national anthem, bringing to a close a night dedicated to celebrating leadership, service, and excellence across Nigeria.
