Senator representing Kogi Central, Barrister Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan; the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa, and the Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, have been named among the top honourees for the 2025 OurNigeria News Awards.
The recipients were unveiled on Tuesday at a press briefing held in Abuja by the organisers of the awards, OurNigeria Magazine.
Speaking at the briefing, the Chairman of the Editorial Board, Dr. AK Peters, said Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan emerged as Legislator of the Year due to her visibility, consistency and impactful performance within the review period.
“Distinguished Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan stood out for her courage, legislative visibility and unwavering commitment to people-centred representation. Her performance between 2024 and 2025 reflects the kind of legislative leadership Nigeria needs,” Peters said.
Dr. Peters further disclosed that the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa, was named Man of the Year 2025 following his leadership role in strengthening Nigeria’s security architecture and his elevation to the position of Defence Minister.
“In all the appointments Mr. President has made, the most celebrated appointment of this administration was the appointment of Christopher Musa as the Honourable Minister of Defence,” Peters stated.
He explained that Musa’s record, public profile and the expectations surrounding his leadership in the defence sector placed him in a unique position within the review period.
Also announced was the Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, who emerged Governor of the Year 2025, marking the second consecutive year he has received the magazine’s top recognition.
“Governor Siminalayi Fubara was our Man of the Year 2024, and he has again emerged our Man of the Year 2025. He has demonstrated the consistency and the type of leadership we want to see in Nigeria,” Peters said.
He noted that despite political distractions and challenges, the Rivers State governor has remained connected to the people and focused on governance, peace and welfare.
Dr. Peters explained that the theme of the 2025 awards, scheduled to hold in 2026, is “Providing a Podium for the Unsung Hero,” noting that it reflects the magazine’s long-standing mission of spotlighting individuals who have contributed significantly to nation-building without commensurate public recognition.
According to him, the honourees were selected through a rigorous process involving nationwide nominations, editorial screening and assessment by independent evaluators drawn from the 36 states.
“From the nominations we received, we scaled them down, subjected them to independent assessment, and zeroed in on those whose impact stood out within the review period of 2024 to 2025,” he explained.
Reacting to the honour, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan described the recognition as a call to greater service.
“This honour is not just about me; it is about the resilient people of Kogi Central who inspire my work in the Senate. It strengthens my resolve to continue advocating for inclusive laws and accountable governance,” she said.
Other prominent award recipients include the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, named Minister of the Year, and former Kano State governor, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, who will receive a Lifetime Achievement Award in Democratic Leadership, alongside several leaders across politics, security, academia, media and civil society.
Dr. Peters expressed appreciation to the media and stakeholders for supporting the magazine’s vision of projecting positive Nigerian narratives while promoting excellence, accountability and patriotism.
