As 2025 draws to a close, it is with profound respect and admiration that I extend warm congratulations to seven distinguished Nigerians who were conferred with Honorary Fellowship Awards by the British Open University of California and the British Open University of London on 20 December 2025 in Abuja.
These eminent individuals exemplify excellence, leadership, and service. Through their professional achievements and civic engagement, they have made measurable contributions to national development, youth empowerment, and institutional advancement across multiple sectors of the Nigerian economy.
The Awardees
1. Hon. Dr. Taiwo Odunmuyiwa Paul
• A leading figure in the oil and maritime sectors
• Advocate for youth inclusion in governance and leadership
• Proponent of youth empowerment initiatives in Lagos State
• Contributor to employment and skills development through initiatives such as the Lagos State Youth Employment Scheme
Guiding principle:
“Let us be about the business of empowering our youth, that they may be the leaders of tomorrow.”
2. Hon. Dr. Felix Tolorunju Idowu
• Renowned entrepreneur and printing industry leader
• Founder of Braflix and the Tolorunju Foundation, focused on poverty alleviation and youth empowerment
• Supporter of education and enterprise development in Kogi State through scholarships and entrepreneurship programs
Guiding principle:
“Empowerment through skills and opportunity creates lasting impact.”
3. Hon. Dr. Godwin Owoicho Anyebe
• Business leader with diversified interests, particularly in the automobile sector
• Advocate for youth development in Benue State
• Contributor to regional growth through investments in education and infrastructure
Guiding principle:
“Progress is built on resilience, discipline, and continuous improvement.”
4. Dr. Olusola Olufemi
• Accomplished businessman and educationist
• Advocate for educational reform and access
• Founder of initiatives supporting learning, leadership, and institutional development in Nigeria
Guiding principle:
“Education remains the most powerful driver of national transformation.”
5. Dr. Ogar Bestman Ngaji
• A telecommunications regulatory professional and public-sector leader with extensive experience at the intersection of technology, regulation, and national development.
• He has contributed to policy-relevant initiatives aimed at expanding access to critical infrastructure, including connectivity, electricity, and water, with a strong emphasis on inclusion and service delivery to underserved communities.
• Always feature in active role aimed at advancing youth-focused empowerment and capacity-building initiatives, leveraging multi-stakeholder collaboration across government, civil society, and community networks. he is known for his emphasis on institutional integrity, accountability, and policy coherence.
Guiding principle:
“Integrity is doing the right thing, even when no one is watching.”
6. Dr. Capt. Abba S. Maigida
• Aviation expert and senior civil servant in the Federal Capital Territory
• Life Member, Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA), United States
• Environmental advocate and child rights champion
• Founder of initiatives advancing environmental sustainability and social protection in Kaduna State
Guiding principle:
“Stewardship of people and the environment defines responsible leadership.”
7. Dr. Engr. Joseph Uzor
• Engineering professional and Chief Executive Officer, Joehel Global Services Ltd
• President General, Achi Development Union
• Philanthropist supporting infrastructure development and youth empowerment in Enugu State
Guiding principle:
“Leadership is service anchored in competence and commitment.”
To these exceptional individuals, I say Congratulations on this well-deserved recognition! You are beacons of hope and inspiration to the youth of Nigeria.
May your lives continue to be a blessing to our nation and the world.
Chief Comrade Ernest Ugorji
Chairman, ErnyGift Global Services International Ltd
President, NIFYSF
