Engr. Alabi, Alhaja Mewolaka, others honoured at Ebony Herald International 16th Annual Lecture in Akure. By Abibu Shehu Ibrahim
Engr. Alabi, Alhaja Mewolaka, others honoured at Ebony Herald International 16th Annual Lecture in Akure
The Ebony Herald International Magazine on Thursday, staged its 16th Annual Lecture and Awards Ceremony in Akure, honouring Nigerians who have made outstanding contributions to governance, public enlightenment and community development.
Among the awardees were Engr. (Dr.) Johnson Jaiyeola Alabi, renowned for his work on governance and national issues, and social media influencer Alhaja Mewolaka, celebrated for her impact on grassroots awareness and youth engagement.
Several other distinguished personalities were also recognised for excellence in their fields.
Held at Pharmacy House behind Government House, Alagbaka, the event attracted academics, policymakers and cultural leaders.
The keynote paper, delivered by Engr. (Dr.) Alabi and titled “The Trajectory of Governance in Nigeria: Linking Institutional Evolution to Hunger, the Herder–Farmer Crisis, Corruption, and National Challenges,” examined the roots of Nigeria’s major socio-economic challenges.
Alabi argued that hunger, the protracted herder–farmer crisis, widespread corruption and insecurity are tied to decades of institutional fragility, excessive centralisation and inconsistent governance practices.
He maintained that food insecurity remains largely a governance failure, worsened by insecurity in farming regions, corruption in agricultural schemes and dwindling rural investment.
He further linked the escalating herder–farmer clashes to weak land-use policies, environmental pressures and the collapse of traditional conflict-resolution systems, while stressing that corruption continues to undermine development and erode public trust.
A highlight of the event was the presentation of awards.
Alhaja Mewolaka received special recognition for her influence in grassroots enlightenment, youth engagement and community advocacy through digital platforms.
Other recipients were similarly commended for professional excellence and service to humanity.
The event was chaired by HRH Adekunle Ajanaku, the Olu Amudipe.
Dignitaries at the high table included the Ondo State Commissioner for Physical Planning and Urban Renewal, Hon. Sunday Olajide; Dr. Mrs. Agbayewa; frontline politician and feminist, Dr. Mrs. Morinola Olanipekun; Sheikh Dr. Sirajudeen Batuta; Evang. Adeniyi Ayorinde; Hon. Smart Omodunbi Jnr; and Hon. Michael Afolabi Olakunle Mickey.
In their remarks, award recipients thanked Ebony Herald International Magazine and reaffirmed their commitment to promoting integrity, leadership and national development.
The Ebony Herald Annual Lecture and Awards has evolved into a respected platform for intellectual discourse and the celebration of Nigerians making meaningful impact across sectors.
