Jonathan eulogises Awolowo, commends Soyinka

President Goodluck Jonathan has extolled the leadership qualities of late Chief Obafemi Awolowo.
President Jonathan, who was represented by Vice President Namadi Sambo at the inaugural award of the Obafemi Awolowo Prize for Leadership on Prof. Wole Soyinka in Lagos, said: “Chief Obafemi Awolowo in whose honour this Prize is instituted was a foremost nationalist and statesman, whose life exemplified rare qualities of leadership, worth celebrating.”
He stated that the inauguration of the prestigious prize for leadership at this period in the history of the nation was timely and auspicious as the objective of the prize coincides with the administration’s emphasis on transformational leadership, as a means of national resurgence, under the national Transformation Agenda.
He said: “It is common knowledge that Chief Awolowo was a great nationalist.
“Together with his fellow compatriots, he worked relentlessly for the independence of Nigeria from colonial rule.
“Chief Awolowo deployed his intellect, legal skills and political acumen for the promotion of the cause of our country and the good of its people.”
Jonathan added that “throughout his lifetime, Awolowo was a central force in our national politics and was widely respected for his commitment to principles.”
Jonathan noted that today, ample evidence abound of the positive impact that Chief Awolowo’s political philosophy and transformational leadership style have on the nation as great lessons could be drawn from his integrity, credibility, discipline, courage, selflessness, accountability, tenacity of purpose, visionary and people-centered leadership as well as respect for the rule of law and press freedom.
On the recipient of the award, the Nobel Laureate, Prof. Wole Soyinka, Jonathan said his selection reflects the high value placed on the Prize.
He recalled Soyinka’s significant role in the democratization of the country, particularly under military rule, and his pioneering role as head of Federal Road Safety Corps among other humanitarian endeavours.
He said: “Prof. Soyinka is always driven by his passion and love for our country and the welfare of its people.
“At home or abroad, the interest of Nigeria and Nigerians is the motive driving his actions.”
Earlier, the Founding Member and Executive Director of the Obafemi Awolowo Foundation, Dr. Olatokunbo Awolowo Dosumu, Soyinka has demonstrated over the years, rare courage, doggedness and commitment to the best interest of the people on whose behalf he continues to advocate.
In his remarks, the Chairman of the selection committee, Chief Emeka Anyaoku, said Soyinka won the award because he met all the traits that “characterized Chief Awolowo’s leadership style.”
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