The Executive Vice Chairman of the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI), Mr. Khalil Suleiman Halilu, has been honoured with the prestigious ‘Royal African Young Leadership Award’ by the Ooni of Ife, His Imperial Majesty Ooni Adeyeye Babatunde Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II.
The award was presented at the 4th edition of the Royal African Young Leadership Forum held on Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Ile-Ife, Osun State.
The event organized by the palace celebrates the achievements of outstanding young African leaders to their communities and industries.
During the presentation, the Ooni of Ife, commended Halilu’s exemplary leadership at NASENI, emphasizing that his visionary leadership and innovative approaches are propelling Nigeria towards a technological and industrially advanced nation.
The Ooni noted that the NASENI boss’ outstanding performance is a source of immense pride for the youth of Nigeria and is crucial for the country’s economic prosperity. He also expressed gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for recognizing illustrious young Nigerians, mentioning other notable appointees such as the Director-General of SMEDAN, Mr. Charles Odii, the Minister of Youth, Dr. Jamila Bio Ibrahim, and the Minister of Youth (State), Ayodele Olawande Wisdom.
“These young men are part of the government of our dear country. I want to use this opportunity to celebrate you and appreciate the President for putting you into government, thereby making your individual contributions to the development of Nigeria,” Ooni said.
Reacting to the award shortly after the presentation, the EVC/CEO of NASENI expressed gratitude for the recognition, stating, “I am honoured to receive this award from His Majesty, the Ooni of Ife. Previously, I admired the Royal African Young Leadership Forum Award on social media. Being acknowledged in this way underscores His Majesty’s commitment to recognizing and celebrating the positive impact individuals make in their respective endeavours.”
The Royal African Young Leadership Forum is an annual event that brings together dynamic young leaders from various sectors to discuss and promote sustainable development in Africa. This year’s theme, “Africa of the Future: Better Together,” reflects the forum’s focus on unity and collective progress.