Senator Ned Nwoko
Senator Ned Nwoko, representing Delta North under the All Progressives Congress (APC), was on Thursday night honoured with the prestigious title of ” _Best Performing Senator of the Year”_ at the 2025 Democracy Heroes Award Africa ceremony.
The annual event, which celebrates excellence in democratic leadership and public service, saw Nwoko emerge top among a field of active senators, recognised for his impactful legislative work, people-focused bills, and visible contributions within the 10th National Assembly.
The award was formally presented by Hon. Alhassan Doguwa, who represents Doguwa/Tudun Wada Federal Constituency in Kano and serves as the leader of the Northern Region Caucus in the House of Representatives.
Standing among cheering supporters and proud Anioma constituents, Nwoko received the honour with emotion and reflection, dedicating the accolade to the late Sir Dennis Osadebay—Nigeria’s second Senate President and the first Premier of the now-defunct Midwestern Region.
“There are many awards and many hosts, but this is one I will cherish for the rest of my life,” Nwoko said.
“I want to dedicate this award to a very special man… He is a poet, a politician, and a lawyer. He is the one who came up with the idea of Anioma as a state.”
He went on to describe Osadebay as a visionary whose dream of an Anioma State continues to inspire his own mission in the Senate.
“Anioma is the Igbo-speaking part of Delta, one of five ethnic groups in the state. What he began years ago—the agitation for Anioma State—is what I am working to complete today,” he added.
Nwoko reaffirmed his commitment to pursuing the creation of Anioma State, expressing optimism that with the support of the National Assembly and President Bola Tinubu, the dream could soon become reality.
The senator also used the moment to reflect on the responsibilities of public office and the importance of integrity in leadership.
“If you’re in government to make money, then you shouldn’t have ever been there,” he said pointedly. “You should have made your money before coming to serve. This is why many get into trouble.”
Grateful for the recognition, Nwoko acknowledged his fellow lawmakers, noting, “There are many good and outstanding senators; I just happen to be the one chosen. What matters most is that we all serve the people and put the nation first.”
He closed by reaffirming his dedication not only to his constituents in Delta North, but also to the larger causes of national unity and progress.
“I will keep the flag flying—not just for myself, but for the Igbo nation, the South South, and Nigeria at large.”
The Democracy Heroes Award Africa annually spotlights individuals and institutions driving democratic values, governance reforms, and social development across the continent. Nwoko’s latest honour comes amid his active sponsorship of community-driven legislation and his ongoing advocacy for the creation of Anioma State—an idea deeply rooted in the political vision of the late Sir Dennis Osadebay.
NAN
