The Coalition of Nigeria Women Forum for Peace and Good Governance (CNWFPGG) has formally conferred patronship on Engr. Stephen Achema Akpa, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Zoe New Dawn Nigeria Limited, in recognition of his outstanding contributions to peacebuilding, national unity, good governance, women and youth empowerment, humanitarian service, and purposeful leadership.
The confirmation ceremony, which drew civil society leaders, development partners, women advocates, and community stakeholders, was described by the coalition as a historic and symbolic milestone aimed at strengthening strategic partnerships for national development and social transformation.
Presenting the confirmation address on behalf of the Coalition’s leadership, the National President, Amb. Ruth Ishaku Bang, said the decision to confer the patronship followed “deep reflection, extensive consultation, and a unanimous resolution” of the coalition’s leadership.
She noted that Engr. Akpa’s life and professional engagements exemplify service, integrity, faith, and an uncommon commitment to humanity.
“Today is not merely about a title; it is about entrusting moral leadership, spiritual guidance, and strategic support to a personality whose life and work have proven worthy of such responsibility,” the Coalition stated. It added that patronship within the organisation is reserved strictly for individuals whose values align with its vision for peace, equity, inclusion, and responsible leadership.
According to the Coalition, Engr. Akpa’s extensive philanthropic footprint, visionary private-sector leadership, and sustained commitment to nation-building through community-based interventions made him a fitting choice for the role.
Speaking on behalf of Engr. Stephen Achema Akpa, his media representative, Mr. Michael Samuel Idoko, expressed profound appreciation to the Coalition for the honour, describing it as a renewed call to greater service to humanity.
“This confirmation is not merely an honour to Engr. Dr. Stephen Achema Akpa; it is a renewed mandate to deepen our collective commitment to peace, unity, and inclusive development,” Idoko said. “On behalf of our Chairman and CEO, I assure the Coalition that Zoe New Dawn Nigeria Limited remains fully committed to supporting initiatives that empower women and youths, strengthen grassroots development, and promote ethical leadership across Nigeria.”
He further emphasized that Engr. Akpa views leadership as service and entrepreneurship as a tool for social impact.
“Engr. Akpa firmly believes that enterprise must coexist with compassion. He has consistently maintained that true success is measured not only by profit margins, but by the number of lives positively impacted. This patronship aligns perfectly with his lifelong philosophy of giving back to society,” Idoko added.
In its remarks, the Coalition highlighted its nationwide interventions, which include peace advocacy, leadership development, humanitarian outreach, grassroots mobilisation, and its flagship ‘Pad the Girl Child’ campaign aimed at restoring dignity, improving school attendance, and safeguarding the future of girls from underserved communities.
The Coalition also underscored the importance of strategic partnerships with value-driven leaders in sustaining and expanding its programmes, noting that Engr. Akpa’s patronship would further strengthen its institutional capacity and national impact.
“Your patronship is not symbolic; it is deeply deserved. It is anchored on your exceptional leadership style, unwavering fear and love of God, and consistent commitment to nation-building and human development,” the Coalition stated.
In his response delivered through his representative, Engr. Akpa pledged sustained collaboration with the Coalition to advance peacebuilding, women empowerment, youth development, and people-centred governance initiatives.
“This partnership represents a shared vision for a better Nigeria. Together, we will continue to build bridges of peace, promote unity, and empower communities for sustainable development,” Idoko said.
The event concluded with special prayers offered by the Coalition for divine wisdom, protection, renewed strength, and sustained grace upon Engr. Akpa’s life and leadership, followed by the formal presentation of the patronship confirmation.
Stakeholders at the ceremony described the development as a significant boost to the Coalition’s mission and a strategic step towards deepening private-sector participation in peace and governance advocacy in Nigeria.
The Coalition of Nigeria Women Forum for Peace and Good Governance expressed optimism that the partnership would usher in a new era of impactful collaboration, ethical leadership promotion, and inclusive national development.
