ABUJA, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA) – The Acting Director of Corporate Communications at the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN), Hakama Sidi -Ali has been awarded the Outstanding Spokesperson (Banking Sector) title for the second consecutive year at the 2025 National Spokespersons Awards.
The event, organized by the Nigeria Institute of Public Relations (NIPR) in collaboration with Image Merchants Promotion Limited (IMPR), the publishers of PRNigeria and Spokespersons Digest, took place at the Abuja Intercontinental Hotel as part of the grand finale of the 2025 National Spokespersons’ Summit.
The awards recognize innovation and professionalism in public communication across both public and private sectors.
NIPR President Dr. Ike Neliaku and Hon. Rotimi Akintunde Jr., Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Media and Public Affairs, praised Sidi-Ali and other awardees for their high standards and urged them to continue upholding the qualities that earned them national recognition.
Sidi-Ali was particularly praised for her proactive communication strategies that have strengthened the relationship between the CBN and the Nigerian public since she took office.
Her efforts to address concerns around the introduction of the N5,000 and N10,000 banknotes played a key role in countering misinformation and preserving financial stability.
Additionally, her effective communication during Nigeria’s negotiations with the United States over new tariffs highlighted her expertise in international economic diplomacy.
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The 2025 ceremony celebrated the achievements of individuals and institutions excelling in strategic communication and public affairs.
The event highlighted the crucial role of credible voices in shaping public perception, building institutional trust, and promoting democratic accountability.
Mr. Olufemi Soneye of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) was honored with the Distinguished Spokesperson (Oil and Gas) award.
With over 20 categories, including health, marine, hospitality, power, insurance, and crisis management, the awards underscored the increasing significance of public relations and strategic communication in governance and corporate reputation.
Segun McMedal, Chairman of the Planning Committee, commended both winners and nominees for their essential contributions to maintaining public trust and influencing national discourse.
He urged all communicators to uphold transparency, accountability, and professionalism.
Notable dignitaries at the event included former Information Ministers Frank Nweke Jr., Lai Mohammed, Jerry Gana, Labaran Maku, and the current Minister, Alhaji Mohammed Idris.
The summit featured prominent discussions with former Ogun State Governor Chief Segun Osoba and Taiwo Oyedele, Chairman of the Presidential Committee on Fiscal and Tax Reforms, among other distinguished guests.
Now in its fifth edition, the National Spokespersons Awards—formerly known as the Spokespersons’ Communication Awards (SCA)—continues to be a leading platform for recognizing outstanding public communication in Nigeria.