National figures and community leaders gathered in Abuja for the Great Achievers Summit and Award of Excellence, where several individuals were honoured for service, leadership, and social impact. The event took place at the Abuja Continental Hotel and brought together policymakers, scholars, entertainers, and advocates from different sectors.
Organisers said the summit was created to recognise people whose work has shaped national development and supported communities. Ambassador Dr. Richy E. Onolememen received the Special Recognition Award for Financial Stewardship and Humanitarian Impact. The organisers described his record as a “measurable and consistent commitment to national growth, institutional reform, and people-first giving.”
“We invest in human development through the male child to create a better society,” GAIYD said.
Other honourees included Prof. Jerry Gana, H.E Peter Obi, Alhaji Aminu Yakubu, Dr. Dahiru Bala, Nollywood actor Francis Duru, and Osita Offor. Each recipient was recognised for roles linked to leadership, community support, and public service.
The summit featured a keynote speech, panel sessions, spoken-word performances, and testimonials. It also included the graduation of participants from the “One Boy, One Skill” initiative.
Amb. Dr. Richy supported the book, “Unheard Voices of the Boychild”, written by Dr. Hilary Akpua, which was unveiled and presented to guests. The book documents the silent struggles faced by boys in society.
Organisers from the Great Achievers Initiative for Youth and Community Development (GAIYD) said the summit reinforced the group’s mission to empower youth and support families. The 2025 edition ended with a pledge from stakeholders to expand support for grassroots development, leadership training, and youth-focused programmes across Nigeria and Africa.
