The managing director of Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited (PINL) and chairman of Wells Carlton Hotels and Apartments, Dr Osahon Okunbo, has been honoured by the Ijaw National Congress, INC -America chapter, Houston, Texas, in the United States.
The event was held at the 2024 global convention, which brought together prominent Nigerian leaders and dignitaries from the Niger Delta region and across the globe.
Osahon Okunbo was recognised as a special guest of honour and Leadership Award recipient for his exemplary leadership and contributions to youth engagement, community service, and pragmatic leadership in the Niger Delta region.
He was represented by Tari Alamesiegha and Hon. Ikenna Ukwa. In his speech, Okunbo expressed his gratitude, which Hon. Ikenna Ukwa read on his behalf.
The awardee reflected on his journey, acknowledging the challenges and the importance of rebuilding trust and hope in the communities he serves.
He emphasised the significance of responsible leadership, highlighting that true leadership lies not in visibility but in accountability and service to others.
The INC-A convention, themed “Effective Leadership in Ijaw Nation,” featured notable speakers and guests, including Prof. Benjamin Okaba, president of the Ijaw National Congress; His Excellency (Dr) Goodluck Jonathan, former president of Nigeria; H.E. (Sir) Similaniye Fubara, Governor of Rivers State; and H.E. Senator Douye Diri, governor of Bayelsa State.
Okunbo reiterated his commitment to continuing the work of empowering communities and fostering development in the Niger Delta region.
He said, “To be honoured by this community means more than I can say. This is not just an award; it is a reflection, a moment to pause and take stock of what the journey has been, what it has demanded, and what it continues to require.
“When we began this work, the terrain was as layered as the region. Years of tension. Environmental damage. Broken promises. There was a quiet fatigue in the air, a sense that things might never truly change.
“But we chose to believe otherwise. We didn’t arrive with declarations. We came with a quiet commitment to do things differently. We listened. We partnered with traditional institutions, with youth, with local leadership. We didn’t get everything right. But we stayed. We showed up again and again. And something began to shift.
“Communities that once turned away began to lean in. Incidents dropped. Dialogue returned. Through consistent partnership, we began to see not just operational wins but human ones, and trust was restored. Jobs reignited. Young people dare to hope again.”
The award serves as a testament to his dedication to making a positive impact and inspiring hope in the lives of the people he serves.
