President Bola Tinubu has congratulated Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, Director-General of the World Trade Organisation; Mr. Fola Adeola, co-founder of Guaranty Trust Bank Plc; and Mr. Kola Adesina, Managing Director of Sahara Power Group, on the conferment of honorary doctorate degrees by the University of Lagos (UNILAG).
The university recognised Dr. Okonjo-Iweala for her trailblazing role as the first African woman to lead the World Trade Organisation and for introducing significant reforms in Nigeria’s financial sector. It honoured Mr. Adeola for his pioneering contributions to the Nigerian banking sector and for founding the FATE Foundation, an NGO mentoring young Nigerian entrepreneurs through training and loans.
Mr. Adesina, an alumnus of the university, was recognised for his innovative contributions to the energy industry. Adesina is the Group Managing Director (GMD) of Sahara Power Group, an energy and infrastructure organisation with operations in 42 countries.
The three distinguished Nigerians were awarded a Doctor of Science honorary degree (D.Sc.) by the university at its 55th convocation on January 16.
President Tinubu, who described the awards as well-deserved, said he cherishes exceptional Nigerians who have excelled in their careers and serve as role models for the nation’s youth.
In a congratulatory letter, President Tinubu praised Mr. Adesina for his contributions to Nigeria’s energy sector, highlighting this recognition as a reflection of his commitment to advancing national development.
“Your visionary leadership at Sahara Power Group has been transformative, ensuring sustainable power solutions and inspiring professionals across the energy sector to pursue excellence. This honorary degree is a well-deserved acknowledgment of your tireless efforts to elevate engineering standards and drive innovation in Nigeria,” President Tinubu remarked.
The President stated that the three Nigerian icons deserve recognition for their pursuit of excellence, hard work, and invaluable contributions to the nation’s economic development.
“I encourage you to continue to serve as beacons of hope, innovation, and inspiration for future generations. Please know that your contributions remain deeply valued by the government and people of Nigeria,” the President stated.
President Tinubu wished Dr. Okonjo-Iweala, Mr. Adeola, and Mr. Adesina continued success.
