L-R: His Imperial Majesty, Ooni of Ife Adeyeye Babatunde Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II presenting the prestigious Royal African Young Leadership Award to the EVC/CEO of NASENI, Mr. Khalil Suleiman Halilu at the Royal African Young Leadership Forum held in Ile-Ife, Osun State, yesterday.
Mr. Khalil Suleiman Halilu, Executive Vice Chairman of the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI), has been recognized with the esteemed ‘Royal African Young Leadership Award’ by His Imperial Majesty Ooni Adeyeye Babatunde Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II a week after being honored with the Engineering and Innovation Meritorious Award at the Nigerian Excellence Awards in Public Service (NEAPS),
The accolade was presented during the 4th edition of the Royal African Young Leadership Forum, held on Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Ile-Ife, Osun State. The forum, organized by the palace of the Yoruba race’s progenitor, celebrates the exceptional contributions of young African leaders to their communities and industries.
In his speech, Ooni Ogunwusi praised Halilu’s exceptional leadership at NASENI, noting how his visionary approach and innovative strategies are advancing Nigeria’s technological and industrial landscape. The Ooni emphasized that Halilu’s achievements serve as a point of pride for Nigeria’s youth and are vital to the country’s economic progress. He also extended thanks to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for recognizing outstanding young Nigerians, including other prominent appointees like Director-General of SMEDAN, Mr. Charles Odii; Minister of Youth, Dr. Jamila Bio Ibrahim; and Minister of Youth (State), Ayodele Olawande Wisdom.
“These young leaders are integral to our country’s government. I want to celebrate your achievements and express gratitude to the President for appointing you to roles where your contributions drive Nigeria’s development,” Ooni Ogunwusi remarked.
Responding to the award, Halilu expressed his deep appreciation, stating, “Receiving this award from His Majesty, the Ooni of Ife, is a profound honor. I have long admired the Royal African Young Leadership Forum’s recognition of impactful individuals. This award signifies His Majesty’s dedication to celebrating positive contributions in various fields.”
Halilu underscored the importance of collaborative efforts in fostering technological innovation and industrial growth in Nigeria. He reaffirmed his commitment to advancing NASENI’s mission of enhancing the country’s technological infrastructure and global competitiveness.
The Royal African Young Leadership Forum is an annual event that gathers vibrant young leaders from diverse sectors to promote sustainable development across Africa. This year’s theme, “Africa of the Future: Better Together,” highlights the forum’s focus on unity and collective advancement.
Halilu’s recognition at the forum not only celebrates his impactful work at NASENI but also serves as an inspiration to Nigeria’s youth and contributes significantly to the nation’s economic development. Alongside Halilu, other distinguished Africans honored include Dr. Jamila Bio Ibrahim, Ayodele Olawande Wisdom, and Charles O. Odii, recognized for their significant contributions across various fields.
