Senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, has welcomed the international recognition bestowed on former World Bank vice-president Dr Obiageli Ezekwesili, describing it as a significant affirmation of integrity-driven leadership on the global stage.
Ezekwesili was on December 14, 2025, in Doha, Qatar, named a joint recipient of the International Anti-Corruption Excellence Award (Lifetime Achievement), presented by the Emir of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani.
In a congratulatory message, Akpoti-Uduaghan said the award went beyond individual accomplishment, noting that it underscored the enduring relevance of accountability, transparency and ethical leadership at a time of growing public distrust in institutions worldwide.
She said Ezekwesili’s career demonstrated that integrity and courage remain powerful tools for institutional reform and sustainable development. According to the senator, the recognition reflects global appreciation for values-based leadership and long-term commitment to public service.
Ezekwesili, a former Nigerian minister and co-founder of Transparency International, was honoured for decades of work in advancing anti-corruption reforms, strengthening public sector accountability and promoting good governance across Africa and internationally. The award jury cited her moral consistency and willingness to challenge entrenched corruption, often in difficult and high-risk environments.
Her professional record spans national and international reform roles, including public financial management, extractive sector governance, education reform and the development of global transparency standards. She has also established civic and leadership platforms such as the School of Politics, Policy and Governance (SPPG) and Human Capital Africa, focused on nurturing ethical leadership and citizen participation.
The International Anti-Corruption Excellence Award is organised in collaboration with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and is chaired by the UN Special Advocate for the Prevention of Corruption, Dr Ali Bin Fetais Al Marri. The award secretariat said recipients emerge from a rigorous and independent evaluation process that assesses integrity, expertise and sustained global impact.
Speaking at the ceremony, Ezekwesili dedicated the honour to reform advocates and citizens working to strengthen institutions and uphold public trust, stressing that the fight against corruption is collective and generational.
Akpoti-Uduaghan said Ezekwesili’s recognition should inspire public officials and citizens alike, adding that it reinforced her own commitment to transparency and ethical governance in public office.
The International Anti-Corruption Excellence Award is regarded globally as a benchmark honour for individuals whose work has made a lasting contribution to the fight against corruption and the promotion of accountable governance.
Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan hails Ezekwesili’s global anti-corruption award
