Beat This If You Can…Fashola & Obi Are Silverbird 'Men Of The Year'

Governors Peter Obi and Babatunde Raji Fashola of Anambra and Lagos State respectively were the joint winners of Silverbird "Man of the Year." Their Awards were for the uncommon development of their States and for introducing new norms in governance. According to Silverbird group, "Gov. Obi has embarked on integrated development of his state, with a holistic approach developing all sectors simultaneously. He has brought his private sector experience to bear on the development process in Anambra."

Speaking on Gov. Peter Obi and Raji Fashola, the Chairman of Silverbird Group, Ben Murray-Bruce said all those that were honored were exemplary Nigerians. He said that Govs . Peter Obi and Fashola were humility exemplified. He said he was usually amazed when he met Gov. Obi in airports using the popular side and queuing up just like other Nigerians. He also said that in a country mad in love with sirens, that he was fascinated that both Governors do not use sirens.

Others that receive life time achievement awards for excelling in their fields are Chief Joop Berkhout, for his giant strides in publishing, Dr. Tunji Braithwate for his strides both in legal and political fields, Dr. Chinweizu for his Afrocentricism and uncompromising stance against colonial influences on original African thought.

Also bestowed with Special Achievement Award was Stephen Keshi for his technical depth that has enabled him record strings of victory with many clubs and teams he has coached.

The president of Sierra leone, HE Ernest Bia Koroma was also honored for his contributions in the rebuilding of his country. The country's Ambassador to Nigeria received his award in his honour.

Speaking during the award, Gov. Peter Obi thanked Silverbird group for the award. He said it was a challenge to him and fellow awardees to keep on working for the good of the society and advancement of the society. Describing the award as genuine, he said that with himself and Fashola winning awards, Nigerians should be rest assured that it was based on merit.

Caption: Gov Fashola and Gov Obi digging it with an artist