President Bola Tinubu has said he feels deeply honoured after being named LEADERSHIP Newspaper’s ‘2023 Person of the Year.’
The president’s spokesperson, Ajuri Ngelale, told LEADERSHIP that the president dedicated the award to his hard-working staff in line with his “team-first approach to governance.”
Tinubu also acknowledged the vital role of the Nigerian media in national development.
He commended Nigerians for demonstrating patriotic resolve amidst the current “temporary challenges” and encouraged continued patience and commitment as the country undergoes positive transformation.
“The president is deeply honoured by LEADERSHIP Newspaper’s ‘2023 Person of the Year’ award,” Ngelale said.
According to him, the president acknowledges that positive transformation does not come easily, quickly, or cheaply.
“It takes time and commitment, and the president commends Nigerians for the patriotic resolve they have demonstrated in response to these temporary challenges.
“As Mr. President often says, ‘Labour pains are never enjoyable, but the joy and satisfaction that comes with the birth of the child makes one forget the pain of the process that birthed it.’
“The President is grateful for the honour and is determined to take Nigeria to its worthy destination,” he said.
LEADERSHIP had on Monday announced President Tinubu as its Person of the Year 2023.
According to a statement by the chairman, Zainab Nda-Isaiah issued by the company on Monday, LEADERSHIP chose Tinubu because of his irrepressible spirit which saw him overcoming significant obstacles both within and outside his party, the All Progressives Congress (APC) to emerge as president in the February general elections.
The statement also cited the difficult but necessary decisions Tinubu took, especially shortly after assuming office, to reposition the country.
“It was like walking through a minefield unscathed,” the statement said. “This award is in recognition of his courage, perseverance, and resilience.”
