Governor Mai Mala Buni of Yobe State and Governor Agbu Kefas of Taraba State including six other governors were among the leading figures honored at the prestigious Independent Awards 2023 held at the Eko Hotel & Suites in Lagos.

The event, organized by Independent Newspapers Limited, celebrated government officials, legislators, business leaders, and others who have made significant contributions to Nigeria.

Governor Buni Earns Top Recognition

Governor Buni received the Independent Man of the Year Award for his dedication to the development of Yobe State. 

Buni’s achievements include establishing functional primary healthcare centers, upgrading healthcare facilities, and constructing a maternal and child healthcare complex.

He also declared a state of emergency on education to improve the sector and rebuild schools destroyed by insurgency.

Governor Kefas Honored for Education Efforts

Governor Kefas was awarded the Governor of the Year (Education & Youth Empowerment) for his commitment to education and youth development in Taraba State.

Kefas implemented free and compulsory education from primary to secondary school.

He provided free uniforms, sandals, and writing materials for primary school students and reduced fees for students at the state’s School of Nursing and Midwifery and Taraba State University.

Other Award Winners

Six other governors were recognized for their achievements in various categories:

Governor Peter Mbah (Enugu) – Governor of the Year (Urban Development)
Governor Caleb Mutfwang (Plateau) – Governor of the Year (Infrastructure Development)
Governor Biodun Oyebanji (Ekiti) – Governor of the Year (Community Development)
Governor Dapo Abiodun (Ogun) – Governor of the Year (Tech Innovations)
Governor Muhammadu Yahaya (Gombe) – Independent Governor of the Year (Health)
Governor Umo Eno (Cross River) – Governor of the Year (Fiscal Discipline)

Distinguished Guests and Awards

The ceremony also honored prominent individuals and organizations, including:

Tajudeen Abass, Speaker of the House of Representatives (Legislator of the Year – National), Chief Olabode Ibiyinka George and Chief Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu (Lifetime Achievement Award), Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited (Security Company of the Year) and Seplat Petroleum Development Company (Indigenous Oil Company of the Year).

His Majesty, Ogiame Atunwase II, the Olu of Warri, served as the Royal Father of the Day. Seasoned journalist and former Governor of Ogun State, Chief Segun Osoba, chaired the occasion.

The Independent Awards 2023 brought together nearly 500 guests to celebrate outstanding leadership and contributions to Nigeria’s development.