Soludo’s Chief Press Secretary, Aburime, Bags National Excellence Award

By Praise Chinecherem

Christian Aburime, Chief Press Secretary to Anambra State Governor, Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, has received the National Excellence Award in Strategic Communication and Public Service.

Aburime was honoured at the 10th National Leadership Integrity and Development Summit and Awards 2026, held at the Nicon Luxury Hotel, Abuja.

The event was organised by the Centre for Ethical Conduct Orientation and Empowerment (CECOE), in partnership with the Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria, to commemorate Nigeria’s 66th anniversary.

The summit, themed “Making Nigeria Work, Through Trusted Leadership, Working Institutions, Economic Growth, Sustainable Development and National Security,” brought together stakeholders to deliberate on leadership, institutional development, economic growth and national transformation.

Aburime, who was represented at the ceremony by the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Media Productions, Mr. Ejike Abana, dedicated the recognition to Governor Soludo and the people of Anambra State.

The award recognises Aburime’s contributions to strategic communication and public service under the Soludo administration.

Speaking during the summit, the Executive Director of CECOE, Dr. Owah David, said making Nigeria work would require deliberate and sustained efforts, noting that the aspiration was rooted in the vision and commitment that characterised the country’s independence.

David stressed that national development could not be achieved through wishes alone but required consistent action and responsible leadership.

The Chairman of the occasion, Dr. Rabiu Olowo, also called for stronger institutions and accountable leadership, emphasising that sustainable development should translate into measurable improvements in citizens’ lives.

He urged Nigerians to make transparency and accountability part of everyday national life rather than practices reserved for special occasions.

The Co-Chairman of the event and Chairman of the House Committee on Customs, Rt. Hon. Leke Abejide, spoke on the theme, “Making Nigeria Work: Leadership, Institutions and Citizens; Our Collective Responsibility.”

Abejide said achieving meaningful national progress would require fundamental reforms and a positive change in citizens’ attitudes.

He also highlighted reforms undertaken by the President Bola Tinubu-led administration, including the removal of fuel subsidy and efforts to redirect resources towards productive sectors. According to him, the measures were contributing to Nigeria’s movement towards greater manufacturing capacity and increased foreign direct investment.

The summit featured keynote presentations and panel discussions by prominent Nigerians, with participants examining the role of leadership, institutions and citizens in driving sustainable national development.

Aburime’s recognition adds to his public service profile and highlights the role of strategic communication in government administration and public engagement in Anambra State.

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