Buba Marwa, Usman Ododo, Gbenga Elegbeleye, Bash Ali, others to be Inducted into the National Development Hall of Fame.
The Nigeria National Merit Award Secretariat in the heart of Abuja will host a historic ceremony as distinguished Nigerians are formally inducted into the National Development Hall of Fame.
Among the prominent figures to be honoured are Maj. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), Chairman/CEO of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA); Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, Executive Governor of Kogi State; Hon. Gbenga Elegbeleye, Chairman of the Nigeria Premier Football League Board; and ACG HK Ejibunu, Coordinator of Customs Operation Whirlwind.
This prestigious honour recognizes individuals—both within Nigeria and in the diaspora—who have made enduring contributions to the nation’s development across a variety of sectors, including socio-economic, security, political, religious, and more.
High Chief Darlinghtyn Momoh Umoru, Director of Honours and a renowned Security Consultant, stated:
> “These individuals were selected based on their significant, recognized contributions to the peace, unity, and growth of Nigeria. They reflect excellence and dedication in their respective fields, whether in the public or private sector.”
According to the organizers, the National Development Merit Award has become one of the most celebrated honours in West Africa and is designed to be an annual tradition. It is powered by Elation Magazine, Royal International Magazine, Elation Communications Limited, and the digital platform news.elationcoms.com.
Other notable inductees include:
Bash Ali, OON – World boxing champion and patriot
Hajji Gafar Liameed – Chairman, Lagos State Football Association (LSFA)
Paul Ejime – Veteran international journalist
Pastor Dr. Victoria Ben Shimfe – Cleric and humanitarian
Captain Raymond Bitanis (Rtd.) – Veteran and development advocate
Chief Dr. Matthias Okuma – Philanthropist and business leader
Onyekachukwu Davidson Ogbu – PRO, Nigerian Community, Côte d’Ivoire
John Ocholi, Amb. Abigail Jerry, AC Dinya Sabo, Hon. Dr. Oluwasegun Musa, former Lagos gubernatorial candidate
CSC Lauretta Utubor, Dr. Rafiu Oladipo, President, Nigerian Boxing Board of Control & Nigeria Football Supporters Club
Chief Calistus Elozieuwa, and Dr. Martins Okay Justice
In a special category, Dr. Chioma Amajoh will be inducted into the Mother Africa Hall of Fame in recognition of her pan-African contributions to development and gender empowerment.
The event promises to be a grand celebration of Nigerian excellence and a reminder of the value of merit, integrity, and patriotic service.
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