Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan, representing Kogi Central senatorial district, has congratulated renowned public policy reformer and former Vice President of the World Bank, Obiageli Ezekwesili, on her receipt of the prestigious International Anti-Corruption Excellence Award (Lifetime Achievement).
Dr Obiageli “Oby” Ezekwesili was honoured on December 14, 2025, in Doha, Qatar, where she emerged as a joint recipient of the global award, presented by the ruler of Qatar, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani.
Reacting to the honour, Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan described the award as a global validation of integrity, courage, and values-driven leadership, noting that Ezekwesili’s life work continues to inspire reformers across generations.
“Dr Obiageli Ezekwesili’s recognition is a powerful reminder that integrity still commands respect on the global stage,” Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan said. “Her steady commitment to transparency, accountability, and ethical governance has not only elevated Nigeria’s voice internationally but has strengthened the global fight against corruption. This honour is richly deserved.”
Ezekwesili, a co-founder of Transparency International and a globally respected anti-corruption reformer, received the Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of her decades-long leadership in advancing transparency reforms, strengthening public sector accountability, and promoting values-based governance across Africa and internationally.
The Jury of the International Anti-Corruption Excellence Award acknowledged Ezekwesili’s exceptional moral courage and policy leadership, particularly in environments where anti-corruption efforts often attract resistance and personal risk. Her work has spanned national governance reforms, multilateral institutions, and the establishment of leadership development platforms such as the School of Politics, Policy and Governance (SPPG) and Human Capital Africa.
Over the years, Ezekwesili has played key roles in reforming public financial management systems, extractive sector governance, education frameworks, and global transparency norms, consistently advancing the belief that corruption is neither inevitable nor insurmountable.
The International Anti-Corruption Excellence Award is organised in support of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, with the Award Committee chaired by the United Nations Special Advocate for the Prevention of Corruption, Dr Ali Bin Fetais Al Marri.
According to the Director of the Rule of Law and Anti-Corruption Centre and Head of the Award Secretariat, Dr Yasser Refaie, Ezekwesili’s nomination underwent an independent and rigorous review process and was found to exemplify the highest standards of integrity, expertise, and sustained impact.
Speaking after receiving the honour, Ezekwesili dedicated the award to collective civic action, noting that the struggle against corruption transcends individuals.
“This honour belongs to all citizens and reformers who insist that public power must serve the public good,” she said.
“Anti-corruption work is not about individuals, but about building institutions and norms that outlive any one person.”
Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan concluded by reaffirming her own commitment to accountability and transparent governance in Nigeria, stating that leaders like Ezekwesili remain beacons of hope in a world yearning for principled leadership.
The International Anti-Corruption Excellence Award is globally regarded as a benchmark recognition for sustained impact and ethical leadership in the fight against corruption.
