Nigeria Celebrates Top Achievers: Dangote, Kuku Honoured for Global Impact

The Commonwealth Institute of Advanced and Professional Studies (CIAPS) has recognised Aliko Dangote, Chairman of Dangote Group, and Olubunmi Kuku, Managing Director of the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), with awards of excellence for their outstanding contributions in their respective sectors.

The award ceremony, held Thursday at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs, Victoria Island, Lagos, also honoured Prof Eghosa Osaghae, Director-General of the institute; Nafisah Abdullahi, 2025 TeenEagle Global English Language Skills champion; and Tajudeen Akande of PKF Africa.

Prof Anthony Kila, Director of CIAPS, said the recognition celebrates individuals who have distinguished themselves professionally and globally. “We honour people recognised not only in Nigeria but worldwide innovators like Dangote, who is building the world’s largest refinery, and Kuku, who has emerged as Vice Chairman of Africa’s aviation council,” he said.

The CIAPS director emphasised that such awards are meant to inspire graduates to embrace a culture of excellence and measure themselves against global success. Nafisah Abdullahi expressed gratitude for the recognition and pledged to continue contributing meaningfully in her field.

Oba Olufolarin Ogunsanwo, Alara of Ilara Kingdom, lauded the initiative, calling it an effort that encourages the promotion of Nigeria’s image globally. The ceremony concluded with the presentation of certificates to the institute’s graduating students.