Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan of Kogi Central has been awarded the highly coveted ThisDay Senator of the Year Award, recognizing her exceptional contributions to governance, leadership, and the upliftment of her constituents.

The annual award, organized by ThisDay Newspapers, honors senators who demonstrate unparalleled commitment to public service and impactful representation. Akpoti-Uduaghan emerged as the winner from a distinguished shortlist that included Senators Solomon Adeola (Ogun West), Ireti Kingibe (FCT), Adams Oshiomhole (Edo North), and Ali Ndume (Borno South).

In a statement issued by her Chief Press Secretary, Israel Arogbonlo, the senator’s dedication to legislative excellence and grassroots development was lauded as key factors in her selection for the prestigious honor.

Known for her bold initiatives, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan has focused on economic empowerment, healthcare reforms, and educational development in her constituency. Her programs, particularly those aimed at empowering women and youth through skills acquisition and entrepreneurship, have earned her widespread admiration.

Speaking on the award, the senator expressed gratitude to her constituents and reaffirmed her dedication to driving meaningful change.

“This award reflects the trust and partnership I share with the people of Kogi Central. It’s a call to do more, to deliver on our promises, and to remain steadfast in our pursuit of a better Nigeria,” Akpoti-Uduaghan stated.

Her growing list of achievements includes being named Leadership Newspaper’s Politician of the Year in 2023, further solidifying her reputation as a transformative leader in Nigerian politics.

The ThisDay Senator of the Year Award highlights the importance of impactful leadership in fostering development and governance. Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan’s recognition serves as an inspiration for her peers and a reminder of the power of purposeful representation in national politics.

In a move signaling a commitment to impactful reforms, the Lagos State Head of Service, Mr. Bode Agoro, has congratulated Mrs. Ogunlola Oluyemisi Adefoluke on her appointment as the Executive Secretary of the Lagos State Law Reform Commission.
The announcement, made on Thursday, January 16, 2025, underscores the administration’s confidence in Ogunlola’s ability to lead transformative legal initiatives.
Mrs. Ogunlola, a seasoned legal professional, previously served as a Director (State Counsel) GL 17 in the Ministry of Justice. Her track record of exceptional dedication, diligence, and expertise positioned her as the ideal candidate for the role.

Mr. Agoro described her appointment as a well-deserved recognition of her selfless service and expressed confidence in her capacity to effect meaningful change. “Mrs. Ogunlola’s wealth of experience and expertise will undoubtedly drive impactful reforms within the Commission, further enhancing the legal landscape of Lagos State,” he said.

As Executive Secretary, Mrs. Ogunlola is expected to spearhead initiatives aimed at modernizing and aligning the state’s laws with contemporary challenges.
Her appointment has been met with optimism from stakeholders, who anticipate significant strides in the Commission’s operations under her leadership.

The Head of Service wished her a successful and fulfilling tenure, highlighting the critical role of the Law Reform Commission in shaping a progressive legal framework for Lagos State.

By Ahmed Rufa’i, Dutse

Celebrated Nigerian poet and visual artist Ayo Ayoola-Amale has won the 2024 Justo Bolekia Boleká International Prize for African Literature.
The prestigious honor, conferred by the Sial Pigmalión Publishing Group, acknowledges her exceptional literary career and her acclaimed poetry collection, The Suns Chased Us.
In a statement issued by Mrs. Folusho Ogar, Country Director of the Splendors of Dawn Poetry Foundation, Ayoola-Amale was praised for her unique ability to weave African and universal themes into her work.
Her poetry collection, The Suns Chased Us, explores the intersection of nature, culture, and human emotions through evocative and accessible language, presenting a shared vision of humanity.
Since its inception in 2017, the Justo Bolekia Boleká International Prize has celebrated African and Afro-descendant writers who excel in poetry, narratives, essays, and translation. Named after the distinguished Spanish-African scholar Justo Bolekia Boleká, the award aims to amplify African voices in global literature.
Ayoola-Amale’s literary contributions include six poetry collections, such as Where the World Sings, Life Script, and The Weight of the Rat’s Nest. Her works are featured in the Casa de África collection and have been presented at international platforms like the Madrid Book Fair, Berlin Literature Festival, and COP27.
Known for blending art and activism, Ayoola-Amale is the founder of the Splendors of Dawn Poetry Foundation and co-founder of Poets of the Planet. Her work addresses critical issues such as social justice, racism, and violence, using art as a vehicle for global understanding and transformation.
The international jury for the 2024 prize, chaired by Justo Bolekia Boleká, praised Ayoola-Amale’s lifelong commitment to promoting peace and unity through literature. The jury included experts from Africa, Europe, and the Americas, who recognized her ability to create compelling art that transcends cultural boundaries.
Mrs. Ogar described The Suns Chased Us as a profound work comprising 100 poems in seven parts. “It invites readers to journey through the complexities of human emotions while celebrating the beauty of our shared existence,” she stated.
Ayoola-Amale’s achievement is a significant milestone for African literature, demonstrating its power to shape global narratives. The Splendors of Dawn Poetry Foundation hailed her accomplishment as a beacon of hope for writers, readers, and advocates of social change.
“We celebrate Ayo Ayoola-Amale’s creative journey, which continues to inspire a more inclusive and just world. This recognition solidifies her place as one of Africa’s most impactful literary voices,” Mrs. Ogar concluded.