On Friday, 14th February 2025, Hon. Tiza Isaac Imojime Orya, the Benue State Commissioner for Works, Housing, and Urban Development, was honored with the Nelson Mandela Pan-African Leadership Prize in recognition of his diligent service and commitment to excellence.
The award was presented on behalf of the Stay Africa Youth Development Initiative (SAYDI-AFRICA) by Mr. Austine Kwassi, Vice President for West Africa (Ivory Coast). He remarked that the receipt of the Nelson Mandela Pan-African Leadership Prize by Hon. Imojime is a testament to his unwavering dedication and diligence in public service.
"This prestigious accolade, conferred by the Stay Africa Youth Development Initiative, acknowledges individuals who exemplify the principles of pan-African leadership, reconciliation, and community enhancement. Hon. Tiza possesses exceptional charisma, inspiration, and intellectual prowess, motivating his constituents to attain remarkable achievements while serving as a beacon of hope for the current generation," he stated.
This recognition constitutes a milestone in Hon. Imojime's career, establishing him as a prominent figure in the realms of pan-African leadership and community development.
In his response, the commissioner expressed gratitude to God Almighty and acknowledged the support of His Excellency Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, the state governor, for empowering the current generation with leadership opportunities, which he described as a paradigm shift.
"I am profoundly humbled to accept this esteemed award. This recognition reflects not only my personal contributions but also honors the tireless efforts of my dedicated team members who have played invaluable roles in our achievements," he stated.
Hon. Imojime extended his appreciation to SAYDI-AFRICA for the distinguished recognition and reaffirmed his commitment to embodying the values of pan-African leadership, aligning with the vision articulated by the governor for the advancement of the state.
In a reaction, Hon. Solomon Iorpev, the Technical Adviser on Media, Publicity, and Strategic Communications, underscored that Hon. Tiza merits further accolades, highlighting his unwavering efforts and commitment to quality service delivery. He urged the necessity to intensify efforts to identify and support those who think and act in alignment with African progress.
Engr. Donald Wakwagh, the Permanent Secretary, delivered a vote of thanks, expressing appreciation to those involved in the recognition, emphasizing that the award reflects the honorable Commissioner’s true character and contributions.
Attendees at the event included the Vice President delegation, comprising Mr. Etongo Fransien, Director of Gender (Cameroon), Cofi Emmanuel (Nigeria), and Dominic Eveh, the SAYDI AFRICA Nigeria Coordinator, alongside various directors in the ministry, Hon. Donald Kumun, the PSA on Print Media, and Sir Addingi Godwin.
