The Stay Africa Youth Development Initiative (SAYDI) has conferred the Nelson Mandela Pan African Leadership Award on Engr. Sarat Braimah, Lagos Area Manager of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), in recognition of her hard work and dedication to national service.
The Accra, Ghana-based organisation, led by its President, Dominic Mensah, was in Lagos on Wednesday to formally present the award. Braimah was said to have been pleasantly surprised by the honour.
According to Ambassador Mensah, the Nigerian chapter of SAYDI nominated Braimah following the positive transformation recorded at the NIWA Lagos Area Office since she assumed office.
He highlighted her promotion of student and youth empowerment, support for the Executive Governor of Lagos State, zero tolerance for nepotism and favouritism, commitment to teamwork, and selfless leadership style that reflects African moral values.
He added that her career progression serves as an inspiration to young Africans, particularly women aspiring to build careers in the maritime sector.
“Our core objective is to identify tomorrow’s leaders today by inspiring and educating young people in Africa to remain on the continent and contribute to its sustainable development across all fields of human endeavour. This is where mentorship becomes essential. We seek out achievers like you who have risen through the ranks to inspire other young Africans to stay back and contribute to the growth of the continent,” he said.
During the ceremony, Ambassador Mensah also presented a certificate of excellence to Braimah and announced her automatic induction into the Pan African Leadership Hall of Fame as an amazon of nation building in Africa.
In her appreciation remarks, Braimah expressed gratitude for the recognition, noting that although she had not previously encountered the organisation, she strongly aligns with its vision.
She stressed that Africa can only grow and prosper when young people commit themselves to hard work and selfless service.
“I want to sincerely thank you for this award, which I do not take for granted. It will inspire me to do more for my organisation, Nigeria, and Africa’s maritime development. I believe in and encourage teamwork and dedication. Therefore, this award is dedicated to my superiors in Abuja and to all those who work tirelessly, sacrificing time with family and friends, to support me here in Lagos as Area Manager. I pray that many young people will remain focused and give their best to Nigeria and indeed Africa,” she stated.
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