NEW YORK – The Nigeria Higher Education Foundation NHEF hosted its 2010 Annual Awards gala and symposium at the Waldorf Astoria Hotel, New York. The event coincided with celebrations of Nigeria’s 50th anniversary and the United Nations General assembly and had its theme as; “Education…the imperative for Nigeria’s Future”.
Distinguished speakers at the symposium included; His Majesty Igwe Nnaemeka Alfred Achebe, Dr. Mohammed Namadi, Prof.Olufemi Bamiro and Prof. Sola Olopade whom all delivered presentations that highlighted the need for research, good Governance and funding for Nigerian Universities.
The current Minister of health in Nigeria; Prof. Onyebuchi Chukwu, Minister for information; Dr. (Mrs.) Dora Akunyili and the Foreign Affairs Minister; Mr. Odein Ajumogobia were amongst a high powered federal Government of Nigeria delegation that graced the NHEF event.
The Chairman of the Gala committee and CEO of Coach Inc, Lew Frankfort expressed his satisfaction with the turnout of guests and donors at the event and called for more input towards ensuring a qualitative higher educational system in Nigeria. The Co-chair, NHEF events committee; Beatrice Hamza Bassey, Esq, in her closing remarks thanked all the members of the NHEF and all sponsors for keeping hope alive towards achieving the objectives of the foundation.
The presentation of awards to three honorees formed the highlight of the gala. The Honorees include; Jonathan F. Fanton, former President of the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur foundation from 1999 to 2009 who received the Lifetime achievement award; Robin Renee Sanders, former US Ambassador in Nigeria who received the US leadership for Africa Award and Jide Zeitlin, former partner of the Goldman Sachs group, inc. also received the Jonathan F. Fanton Leadership in Education Award.
The NHEF 2010 gala is probably the most intellectual gathering of Nigerian professionals in recent times who individually paid a premium towards enhancing the quality of higher education in Nigeria.
Documentary by Tosan Aduayi for Trendy Africa Media, New York.
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