By Hillary Asemota
It was a night of glowing tributes for the Director General, National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Mallam Kashifu Inuwa, as Forbes Magazine recognised him as Best of Africa’s Outstanding Corporate Governance CEO Award, 2022.
The award ceremony which was held virtually was organised by the Forbes magazine in conjunction with the Foreign Investment Network, (FIN).
The annual event sets out to recognise distinguished Africans of their outstanding performances and track records in governance and businesses which have made far reaching impacts in the lives of Africans and the world at large.
Inuwa in his acceptance speech, thanked the organisers of the Award for the incredible honour, adding that, “I will also thank Forbes for this recognition and the commitment to promoting strong corporate governance practices.”
He said “I am truly humble and grateful to be recognised as Best of Africa Outstanding Corporate Governance CEO Award. It is a privilege to lead NITDA and being recognised for promoting strong corporate governance practices.”
He noted that he has always believed that good corporate governance is essential to the success and sustainability of any organisation which he says helps to create transparency and accountability culture that fosters trust and confidence among stakeholders.
Inuwa, maintained that NITDA is working tirelessly to ensure adherence to the highest standards of corporate governance which has led to the implementation of robust processes and systems that ensures transparent operations and accountability which are in alignment with the mission and core values of the Agency.
While acknowledging the contributions of his colleagues at NITDA for their hard work and dedication to the mission of the Agency, he noted that without their support and commitments “we will not be able to achieve the level of success that we have achieved.”
Inuwa equally commended the Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Prof Ibrahim Pantami, for his guidance, mentorship and unwavering support he is getting from him.
He promised to continue striving to maintain the highest standard of corporate governance as according to him: “It is an honour to be recognised by such a reputable and respected organisation for doing so.”
In his welcome remark, Mark Furlong, the President of Forbes Best of Africa Custom stated that the Award which began 15 years ago is to recognise and showcase the successful businesses and economies that exist in Africa continent.
He said: “It has been my personal mission to bring the success, growth and opportunity of modern African author to many United States’ executive investors and Chief Executive Officer. Our message of Africa’s success is the truth and we believe that the stories would be well told by African change agents who work tirelessly to ensure better future for the continent.
Other recipients of the Forbes Best of Africa Awards 2022 were the Emir of Kano, Alhaji Aminu Ado Bayero, who emerged as the winner, Forbes Best of Africa Outstanding traditional ruler; the Governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun as the winner, Forbes Best of Africa Governor Industrial Revolution; the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, (NDLEA) Brigadier General Muhammed Buba Marwa (rtd) as the winner of Forbes Best of Africa Safety Award of Excellence amongst other distinguished personalities across the continent.