PBA ReporterThe Nigerian-Canadian Association of Calgary (NCAC) has conferred its Distinguished Citizen Award on Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, the Director-General of World Trade Organisation (WTO) and Mr. Phillips Oduoza, Founder of NOVA Merchant Bank, for their contributions to the economic development of in Nigeria and beyond especially in the financial services sector.
The association gave them the honour during its Gala Night event to mark Nigeria’s Independence Day in Calgary, Canada last weekend.
President of NCAC, Dr. Patrick Etokudo, who spoke at the event said Oduoza and Okonjo-Iweala were honoured because of their distinguished services and contributions to the financial and economic development of Nigeria, Africa and the world at large.
Etokudo said “In these two Nigerians – Mr. Phillips Oduoza and Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, we have esteemed personalities who have shown commitment to the growth of mankind and Nigerian-Canadian relationships with their contributions, thus representing the best of Nigeria.”
Oduoza while thanking the association for the award, called on Nigerians and Africans in Canada and larger diaspora to prioritise investments in Nigeria and on the continent.
He stated that the situation at home was not as bad as being portrayed by some sections of the media and therefore encouraged Nigerians in Canada to continuously be in touch and visit home once in a while.
He said, “Every country has its own peculiar challenges and Nigeria is not an exception. Nigeria is a country with enormous opportunities across all sectors. I am convinced that Nigeria and larger Africa will get it right soon.”
The NCAC marks the Nigerian Independence Anniversary annually not just to celebrate the country’s freedom but also showcase the country’s culture, excellence and successes.
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