PHOTOS: NNPCL, CBN, JAMB, NITDA, Others Shine at 2025 Spokespersons Awards
It was a night of glitz, recognition and celebration as Nigeria’s top communicators across various sectors were yesterday honoured at the 2025 edition of the “National Spokespersons Awards” (NSA).
The event spotlighted excellence in strategic communication and public affairs, rewarding individuals and institutions that have raised the bar in information management, brand representation and media engagement.
This year’s NSA reaffirms the importance of credible voices in shaping public perception, enhancing institutional trust and deepening democratic accountability.
Organized by the Image Merchants Promotion Limited (IMPR), publishers of PRNigeria, Economic Confidential and Spokespersons Digest; in collaboration with the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), the ceremony was held at the Abuja Continental Hotel.
At the forefront of the winners’ list was Mr. Olufemi Soneye, Chief Corporate Communications Officer of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), who not only clinched the “Distinguished Spokesperson (Oil and Gas)” award but also emerged as the coveted “Spokesperson of the Year”.
His strategic articulation of NNPCL’s policies and consistent media visibility in a highly sensitive sector earned him double honours.
Similarly, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) stood out with Mrs. Hakama Sidi-Ali being named “Outstanding Spokesperson (Banking Sector)” for her effective and measured communication amid fluctuating economic indicators and currency reforms.
In the education sector, Dr. Fabian Benjamin of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) was recognized as “Outstanding Spokesperson (Education Sector)”.
His firm yet accessible approach in handling public queries and examination-related controversies has been widely applauded.
The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) also made an impressive showing, with Mrs. Hadiza Umar emerging as “Outstanding Spokesperson (Digital Economy)”, and the agency’s Director-General, Malam Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi, winning the award for “Most Supportive CEO to Spokespersons (Public Sector)”—an affirmation of NITDA’s consistent prioritization of transparent and innovative public engagement.
In the security and enforcement category, Mr. Femi Babafemi of the NDLEA and ACP Muyiwa Adejobi of the Nigeria Police Force were awarded for their exceptional media presence, crisis communication and public reassurance, particularly in sensitive times.
The event also recognized institutions for team excellence and corporate leadership in media. The Nigerian Customs Service (NCS) won “Best Corporate Spokesperson Team”, while Air Peace was awarded “Most Influential Corporate Voice”.
Unilorin’s Lukman Temitope Omoniyi clinched the “Best Corporate Share of Voice on Social Media”, underlining the relevance of digital platforms in institutional branding.
Other notable recipients included Malam Ismaila Uba Misili (Gombe State) as “Outstanding State Government Spokesperson”, Sade Morgan of Nigerian Breweries as “Outstanding Corporate Spokesperson”, and Viola Graham Douglas of LAFARGE as “Most Innovative Spokesperson in the Multinational Category”.
LAFARGE’s CEO, Mr. Lolu Alde-Akinyemi, was also named “Most Supportive CEO to Spokespersons (Private Sector)”.
With over 20 categories spanning sectors such as health, marine, hospitality, power, insurance and crisis management, the awards underscored the growing recognition of public relations and strategic communication as vital components of governance and corporate reputation
In his welcome address, Segun McMedal, Chairman of the Planning Committee, praised the winners and nominees for their vital roles in sustaining public trust and shaping national discourse.
“Tonight, we honour individuals and institutions who have demonstrated exceptional professionalism, integrity, clarity and courage in the delicate and strategic art of public communication,” he said.
He described the awards as a milestone in the collective journey to elevate the standards of public engagement in Nigeria.
“Let this night serve as both a recognition of outstanding work and a reminder of the immense power and responsibility that comes with being a spokesperson in today’s complex information ecosystem,” McMedal added.
He therefore, urged all communicators to continue upholding the values of transparency, accountability and professionalism.
