AKUNYILI HONOURED AMONG 50 POWERFUL WOMEN

Akunyili honoured among 50 powerful women
Monday, March 15, 2010


Akunyili

The Minister of Information and Communications, Professor Dora Akunyili yesterday in the United States received an award as one of the 50 Powerful Women in an event organized by MEA magazine at the Ritz Carlton Hotel Washington, D.C.

MEA magazine, the organizers of the prestigious award, has the theme: 'Women Going the Distance' for this years award in which 50 most successful business leaders across the United States were honoured. This is the first time a Nigerian is being honoured.

In a statement signed by Debra Williams, publisher of the MEA magazine, Prof. Akunyili's efforts at re-branding Nigeria is applauded. 'I applaud Akunyili's efforts in re-branding Nigeria and for going the distance for success and excellence and her contribution to her country.'

According to the group, these deserving women will be chosen from a pool of public nominations from the ranks of professionals. This is an occasion to celebrate women who have endured; gone the distance for success and excellence and have contributed to their communities.' The group stated that the objective of the awards was to celebrate these women as role models for their hard work, honesty, perseverance, resilience and integrity.

In her acceptance speech, Akunyili said she was honoured to be recognized as one of MEA Magazine's '50 Powerful Women in Business. 'I could not have achieved this honour without God and Nigerians for whatever I am today I owe to Nigeria and the good people of Africa… I will not end my acceptance speech without mentioning that African women are good women and I will receive this honour on their behalf. The honour is to all of us.'

In attendance were the Ambassador, Permanent Representative of Nigeria to the United Nations, Professor Joy Ogwu and other important dignitaries amongst Africans/ Americans.