The Forbes Africa Magazine has recognised the director-general of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), Mallam Kashifu Abdullahi with its Best of Africa Outstanding Corporate Governance CEO Award 2022.
The virtual award ceremony was organised by the magazine in conjunction with the Foreign Investment Network (FIN.)
The annual event sets out to recognise distinguished Africans for their outstanding performances and track records in governance and business which have made far-reaching impacts on the lives of Africans and the world.
In his acceptance speech, Abdullahi thanked the organisers of the award for the incredible honour. “I will also thank Forbes for this recognition and the commitment to promoting strong corporate governance practices,” he said, declaring that: “I am truly humbled and grateful to be recognised with [the] Best of Africa Outstanding Corporate Governance CEO award. It is a privilege to lead NITDA and be recognised for promoting strong corporate governance practices.”
He noted that he has always believed that good corporate governance is essential to the success and sustainability of any organisation while helping to create a culture of transparency and accountability that fosters trust and confidence among stakeholders.
Abdullahi maintained that NITDA is working tirelessly to ensure adherence to the highest standards of corporate governance which has led to the implementation of robust processes and systems that ensures transparent operations and accountability which are in alignment with the mission and core values of the agency.
While acknowledging the contributions of his colleagues at NITDA for their hard work and dedication to the mission of the agency, he noted that without their support and commitment “we will not be able to achieve the level of success that we have achieved”.
Abdullahi further commended the Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Prof. Isa Pantami for his guidance, mentorship and unwavering support for the agency.
He promised to continue striving to maintain the highest standard of corporate governance because “it is an honour to be recognised by such a reputable and respected organisation for doing so”.
In his welcome remarks, the president of Forbes’ Best of Africa Custom, Mark Furlong stated that the award which began 15 years ago recognises and showcases successful businesses and economies existing in Africa.
“It has been my mission to bring the success, growth and opportunity of modern African authors to many United States’ executive investors and chief executive officers. Our message of Africa’s success is the truth and we believe that the stories would be well told by African change agents who work tirelessly to ensure a better future for the continent.
Other recipients of the awards were the Emir of Kano, Alhaji Aminu Ado Bayero who emerged as Forbes’ Best of Africa Outstanding Traditional Ruler; the governor of Ogun State, Prince Dapo Abiodun as Forbes Best of Africa Governor, Industrial Revolution; the chairman and chief executive officer, National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brigadier General Muhammed Buba Marrwa (rtd) as Forbes Best of Africa Safety Award of Excellence, amongst other distinguished personalities across the continent.
