A philanthropist, Mr Valentine Ozigbo, has added another feather to his illustrious cap as he received the 2020 Diamond Special Recognition Award for his contribution to sports development, philanthropy, and youth development in Nigeria.
According to a release from its office signed by Mr Ephraim Adiele, the awards event is the brainchild of Yetunde Oduwole, the CEO of Bustline Media and held on the Zoom platform on Sunday, August 30, 2020, was hosted by ace comedian, Gbenga Adeyinka. This is the 10th edition of the event which is "aimed at celebrating individuals who are passionate about charity and empowerment".
The ceremony had hundreds of guests who joined from over 10 countries in the world, including Nigeria, Kenya, United Kingdom, United States of America, and several other countries.
While giving remarks as he received his award, Mr. Ozigbo, who is the immediate past President and Group CEO of Transcorp Plc, thanked the CEO of Bustline Media, Yetunde Oduwole and her team for recognizing his contribution to humanity.
He also said that the award was an encouragement for him to do more for the development of talent, the youth, entrepreneurship, sports, and women empowerment. He mentioned that his foundation, Valentine Chineto Ozigbo Foundation was committed to changing Nigeria for good through the various programmes they have.
The respected business leader also said that the drive to see a better society is what has put him on the quest to become the next governor of Anambra State.
Valentine Ozigbo is also the Chairman of Feet 'N' Tricks International, the largest promoter of freestyle football in Nigeria.
Notable recipients of the award this year include veteran Nollywood practitioners Regina Askia-Williams, Mike Ezuruonye, Williams Uchemba, and Ibinabo Fiberisima; billionaire businessman and philanthropist Ned Nwoko; media mogul Dele Momodu; Super Eagles legend, Daniel Amokachi; Ndidi Obioha, the CEO of Enthyst Event Limited; Bola Atta, the Group Director, Corporate Communications of UBA; David Adeleke (Davido); Manchester United forward Odion Ighalo; entertainment moguls, Michael Collins Ajere (Don Jazzy); and Ubi Franklin.
Valentine Ozigbo is a member of the Peoples Democratic Party and is a leading aspirant in the upcoming 2021 gubernatorial election in Anambra State.