Nwoko bags HURIWA 2024 Man of Year award
Sen. Ned Nwoko (PDP-Delta) has been named the 2024 Man of the Year by the Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA).
National Coordinator, HURIWA, disclosed this in a statement on Saturday in Abuja.
Onwubiko said that the award would be conferred on him on Dec. 10 during the International Human Rights Day Celebration in Abuja.
He said the association recognised the lawmaker’s exemplary contributions to legislative excellence, community development, and the advancement of human rights in Nigeria.
He also said that Nwoko, who represents Delta North Senatorial District, had accepted the award in principle and expressed profound gratitude to HURIWA for the recognition and reiterated his unwavering commitment to justice, equity, and human rights advocacy.
Onwubiko explained that the lawmaker was selected for the honour due to his outstanding performance in the 10th Senate and his transformative initiatives that have positively impacted Delta North and beyond.
He highlighted the Senator’s legislative accomplishments, which included sponsoring 25 bills and moving 19 motions under two years in the Senate.
“This is a record that surpasses that of many of his contemporaries and notable among these is the Data Protection Bill.
“This bill underscores his commitment to safeguarding digital privacy and security. He has also championed motions addressing critical issues such as flooding and environmental hazards.
“HURIWA also acknowledges Nwoko’s unwavering advocacy for establishing a National Social Security Agency to replace the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs.
“This is a visionary initiative that has gained substantial traction, and the recent executive proposal by President Bola Tinubu, which aligns with his vision, demonstrates the far-reaching impact of his legislative efforts.’’
The HURIWA’s national coordinator also said that beyond the senator’s commendable legislative achievements, his commitment to community development stood as a cornerstone of his public service.
He noted that his initiatives in Delta North included scholarship awards, installation of solar-powered streetlights, provision of boreholes to improve access to clean water and providing free medical outreach programs to address public health needs.
According to him, among Nwoko’s signature accomplishments, is the establishment of Africa’s first Sports University in Idumuje-Ugboko, a groundbreaking institution that integrates academics with sports training, creating unique opportunities for youth development and economic empowerment.
He commended Nwoko’s passionate advocacy for the creation of Anioma State, a cause deeply rooted in the aspirations of Delta North communities for justice and equity.
“Nwoko’s leadership in reviving the Anioma State agenda demonstrates his determination to address systemic marginalisation and ensure equitable representation.
“The push for Anioma State is not just a political ambition; it is a movement anchored in justice and fairness.
“Its realisation would significantly advance the socio-economic progress of Delta North,” he said.(NAN)