HLF honours 13 Nigerians as Anyaoku urges return to integrity, hard work
The Hallmarks of Labour Foundation (HLF) has recognised 13 Nigerians for excellence and leadership, with renewed emphasis on integrity and hard work at its 29th anniversary ceremony in Lagos. The
The Hallmarks of Labour Foundation (HLF) has recognised 13 Nigerians for excellence and leadership, with renewed emphasis on integrity and hard work at its 29th anniversary ceremony in Lagos.
The event, held at the Lagos Oriental Hotel, also featured a strong call for a national reset on values.
Former Commonwealth Secretary-General Emeka Anyaoku warned that Nigeria’s weakening value system poses risks to its future, especially among young people.
Anyaoku, who chaired the ceremony, said recognising individuals with outstanding records is essential for reinforcing positive examples in society.
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“This is an award to individuals whose lives and careers have made them role models. The essence is to encourage our young people to learn that success in every human endeavour is a result of hard work and that integrity is the most important possession,” he said.
He expressed concern over the growing normalisation of unethical practices, noting that behaviours once widely condemned are increasingly tolerated in parts of society.
The foundation used the occasion to reaffirm its commitment to promoting excellence, ethical leadership, and value-based development across the country.
“In my school days, examination malpractice was unknown. Today, even parents and guardians aid their children to cheat and earn unmerited certificates,” he said.
The elder statesman further decried the growing celebration of wealth without regard for how it is acquired, noting that institutions and communities now often honour individuals without questioning the source of their riches.
“The looting of public funds on a grand scale and the adoration of wealth, irrespective of how it is acquired, were things that were frowned upon in the past,” he added.
Anyaoku advised young Nigerians to pursue productive and self-reliant career paths, highlighting agriculture, manufacturing, ICT, and entrepreneurship as key sectors.
He also urged those aspiring to political office to be guided by service rather than personal gain.
In her remarks, HLF Executive Secretary, Patricia Otueson-Arawore, said the awards were instituted to recognise individuals whose achievements reflect discipline, excellence, and strong moral values.
She noted that Nigeria remains a country with immense human capital but faces challenges related to declining values and a poor work ethic.
The event featured the presentation of Role Model Awards to notable Nigerians across different sectors.
Benedict Oramah received the Outstanding International Icon award, while Yayale Ahmed was honoured for Excellence in Leadership and Good Governance.
Mater Amabilis Secondary School, Umuoji, Anambra received the Best Overall Public Secondary School in WASSCE results for the year 2025.
Other awardees included Akinlolu Olujinmi, James Ogenyi Ogebe, Isaac Folorunsho Adewole, Friday Okonofua, Francisca Okeke, Adeyinka Falusi, Placid Njoku, Afe Babalola, Abel Idowu Olayinka, Kabiru Yusuf, and Oseyemi Olurotimi Akinbamijo.
Five late African icons were also recognised posthumously, including Chinua Achebe, Kofi Annan, Nelson Mandela, Pius Okigbo, and Gani Fawehinmi.
HLF said the awards form part of its ongoing efforts to promote exemplary leadership and inspire Nigerians to uphold values that drive national development.