The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of CEOAFRICA, Prince Cletus Ilobanafor, has been honored with the Sir Ahmadu Bello Platinum Award by the Council of Northern Youth Advocates of Nigeria (CNYAN) in recognition of his outstanding contributions to national unity and youth empowerment.
The ceremony, held at the CNYAN headquarters in Abuja, celebrated Ilobanafor as the Garkuwan Matasan Arewa, meaning a true Icon and Cynosure of Nation Building.
Speaking at the event, Hon. Muhammed, President of CNYAN, applauded Prince Ilobanafor’s dedication to fostering a united Nigeria and his tireless advocacy for youth development.
The CNYAN president also used the occasion to call for increased budgetary support for education in Northern Nigeria, stressing that more investment in education could help reduce the number of out-of-school children and create a stronger, more enlightened generation.
In his acceptance speech, Prince Ilobanafor expressed gratitude to the youth body for the recognition and pledged continued support for youth-centered causes.
A passionate malaria advocate, Ilobanafor also used the platform to highlight his ongoing anti-malaria initiative, announcing the Geneith Health Competition; a ₦1 billion project sponsored by Geneith Pharmaceuticals Ltd. The initiative aims to educate students in secondary and tertiary institutions on malaria prevention and turn them into ambassadors for a malaria-free Nigeria.
He emphasized that Nigeria’s youth remain the nation’s greatest asset, urging President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to prioritize their inclusion and empowerment.
The event closed on an inspiring note, as attendees pledged to collaborate towards building a more united and prosperous Nigeria.
Prince Ilobanafor’s recognition by CNYAN spotlighted his unwavering commitment to national development, youth empowerment and a malaria-free Africa. The values that continue to shape his leadership and public service vision.
