Razaq Bamidele
An Abuja-based pro-democracy and human right organisation, Nigerian Patriotic Youth Against Corruption and Transparency Network, has honoured an Ogun State-born security expert, Amb. (Dr.) Otunbalaje Adejare Adegbenro, with Integrity and Ambassadorial Award of Excellence.
During the award presentation, in Abuja, on Tuesday, Deputy Coordinator of the group, Mr. Emmanuel John, who explained that the formidable youth organisation was collectively formed by the Nigerian youth across the 36 states of the federation, stated that, the award was in recognition of Adegbenro’s efforts at moving the country forward in peace.
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His words, “The award is in recognition of your honesty, stewardship, foresight and integrity you have exhibited in national service and appreciation of your immense contribution to the fight against corruption and insecurity for the growth of peaceful development of Nigerian society and astute participation in governance.”
Mr. John who disclosed that the award was also to assure him that the group members are strongly in support of his activities to see the day, added that they are not ignorant of his unblemished record and antecedent of Dr. Amb. Otunba Adejare Adegbenro because he is a renowned security expert, who has demonstrated commitment and proffered solutions towards addressing the nation’s security problems.
“A man who has been helping the youth and empowering them because he found solace in them, for his integrity and unadulterated patriotism has been source of motivation of our moral upbringing. We need more people of your kind for growth and development of our country.
“We want to assure you also that the organisation is strongly in support of you and your activities in that cause to see the light of the day.
“Symposium shall always be organised to showcase what you stand for,” the Deputy Coordinator, Mr. John, assured the awardee, saying the group would appreciate if he keeps on as their father, a role model for this generation and future generations.
Concluding, Mr. John said, “We want you to keep the ball rolling as our role model for our generation and future generations. May your goodwill to humanity continued.
“May God continue to bless you, grant you good health and uncommon wisdom to continue to pilot your humanitarian activities to a logical conclusion.
“Your works of patriotism would linger for long as one in a million. And your unrivalled leadership style as our source of motivation, continue progressively.”
In his acceptance speech, Amb. Adegbenro appreciated the organization’s gesture encouraging all youth in Nigeria to join hands in the fight against insecurity.
His words: “Let us hold government responsible for a lot of things. But we ourselves should do what is right. I am encouraging all the youth across Nigeria to join me in fighting insecurity. It is very important. I also urge Nigeria to have a dialogue on how to move Nigeria forward. Security matter is not the sole responsibility of the government alone. It is however a collective responsibility of all well-meaning citizens and residents of the country as a whole.”
