By Modupe Gbadeyanka
A Lagos-based non-governmental organisation (NGO), Heritage for Life Foundation, has recognised the exemplary leadership of the Managing Director of the Shell Petroleum Development Company of Nigeria Limited, and Country Chair of Shell Companies in Nigeria, Mr Osagie Okunbor.
At a ceremony in Lagos last Thursday, a director of the foundation and former Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Mr Tunde Lemo, explained that the award was given to Mr Okunbor for his “invaluable contributions to the Nigerian energy sector and his service to humanity.”
He further disclosed that the event, where the Shell Nigeria chief was honoured, was put in place to promote “moral qualities and attitudes pivotal to the growth of a stable and functional society” by recognising individuals who exhibit the virtues.
Receiving the award, Mr Okunbor said, “I’m pleased at this recognition which calls for greater commitment to the highest standards of leadership and service to humanity. With the support of my colleagues and other stakeholders, I hope to continue to contribute to the development of our country.”
The award from the foundation was the second bestowed on the longest-serving Country Chair of Shell companies in Nigeria in the past month.
At the 60th anniversary of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), Mr Okunbor was conferred with the Diamond Ambassador of Brand Nigeria as part of NIPR’s Diamond Jubilee National Awards.
Presenting the award, the NIPR President and Chairman of Council, Dr Ike Neliaku, noted that Mr Okunbor earned the award having demonstrated exceptional leadership as Chairman of the largest energy company in Nigeria that had made significant contributions to the socio-economic development of Nigeria in more than seven decades.
The energy expert’s contributions to the energy sector are the highlights of a career in Shell which has seen him serve in Nigeria, the UK, Brunei and the Netherlands before his appointment as Managing Director, SPDC and Country Chair in 2015.
In May, the executive council of the Nigerian Gas Association recognised him for “outstanding contributions towards the advancement of Nigeria’s gas sector.”