Again, Hakama Sidi-Ali clinches top honour at 2025 national spokespersons awards

In a remarkable demonstration of excellence in public communication, Hakama Sidi-Ali, spokesperson for the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), was awarded the Outstanding Spokesperson (Banking Sector) for the second consecutive year at the 2025 National Spokespersons Awards.

The ceremony, held at the Abuja Intercontinental Hotel, was part of the grand finale of the 2025 National Spokespersons’ Summit in Abuja.

SolaceBase reports that the event organised by the Nigeria Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) in collaboration with Image Merchants Promotion Limited (IMPR), the publisher of PRNigeria and Spokespersons Digest, said the awards aim to celebrate innovation and professionalism in public communication across both public and private sectors in Nigeria.

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During the event, NIPR President Dr. Ike Neliaku and Hon. Rotimi Akintunde Jr., Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Media and Public Affairs, commended the award recipients for their exemplary standards in the field and encouraged them to maintain the qualities that garnered national recognition.

Sidi-Ali was lauded for her proactive communication strategies and her commitment to bridging the gap between the CBN and the Nigerian populace.

Her significant role in countering misinformation regarding the potential introduction of N5,000 and N10,000 banknotes was particularly noteworthy, effectively calming public unrest and maintaining financial stability.

According to the organisers,  her adept communication during Nigeria’s recent negotiations with the United States over newly imposed tariffs underscored her pivotal role in international economic diplomacy.

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The award ceremony showcased a variety of individuals and institutions excelling in strategic communication and public affairs. This year’s event underlined the critical role of credible voices in shaping public perception, fostering institutional trust, and enhancing democratic accountability.

Among the other awardees, Mr. Olufemi Soneye of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL), who received the “Distinguished Spokesperson (Oil and Gas)” award. Dr. Fabian Benjamin from the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) was recognised as the “Outstanding Spokesperson (Education Sector).”

The National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA) shone brightly throughout the event, with Mrs. Hadiza Umar winning “Outstanding Spokesperson (Digital Economy)” and Malam Kashifu Inuwa Abdullahi earning the title of “Most Supportive CEO to Spokespersons (Public Sector).”

In the security and enforcement category, Mr. Femi Babafemi of the NDLEA and ACP Muyiwa Adejobi of the Nigeria Police Force were acknowledged for their remarkable media presence and effective crisis communication, particularly during sensitive times.

Institutions were also celebrated for their contributions to media excellence. The Nigerian Customs Service (NCS) clinched the award for “Best Corporate Spokesperson Team,” while Air Peace was honoured as the “Most Influential Corporate Voice.” Additionally, Unilorin’s Lukman Temitope Omoniyi was awarded for the “Best Corporate Share of Voice on Social Media,” highlighting the significance of digital platforms in branding.

Other notable recipients included Gombe State’s Malam Ismaila Uba Misili as “Outstanding State Government Spokesperson,” Sade Morgan of Nigerian Breweries as “Outstanding Corporate Spokesperson,” and Viola Graham Douglas of LAFARGE, recognised as the “Most Innovative Spokesperson in the Multinational Category.” LAFARGE’s CEO, Mr. Lolu Alde-Akinyemi, was also named “Most Supportive CEO to Spokespersons (Private Sector).”

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With over 20 categories covered, including health, marine, hospitality, power, insurance, and crisis management, the awards emphasized the growing importance of public relations and strategic communication as essential components of governance and corporate reputation.

Segun McMedal, Chairman of the Planning Committee, praised winners and nominees for their vital roles in sustaining public trust and shaping national discourse. He urged all communicators to uphold the values of transparency, accountability, and professionalism.

Now in its fifth edition, the National Spokespersons Awards, previously known as the Spokespersons’ Communication Awards (SCA), continue to serve as a premier platform for recognizing impactful and professional public communication in Nigeria.

The ceremony was attended by prominent figures, including past and present Ministers of Information, such as Frank Nweke Jr., Lai Mohammed, Jerry Gana, and Labaran Maku, as well as the current Honorable Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris.

The summit featured high-level discussions led by notable speakers, including former Ogun State Governor Chief Segun Osoba, Prof. Taiwo Oyedele, and other eminent figures in the field of communication, reflecting a collective commitment to enhancing public engagement standards in Nigeria.