By George Ozalla
The evening of August 20, 2025, was nothing short of spectacular at the prestigious Abuja Continental Hotel, as awardees, guests, and well-wishers gathered to celebrate the 2025 Humanitarian Service Diamond Awards (HSD Awards). The event, held in commemoration of World Humanitarian Day, shone a spotlight on worthy individuals and organizations making lasting impacts in humanitarian causes and societal development.
Among the esteemed awardees was Mr. Solomon Folorunsho, Coordinator of the Home for the Needy Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camp, who received the prestigious “Living Legacy” Humanitarian Award. This recognition was in recognition of his exceptional track record in national development, societal uplift, and relentless service to humanity.
In his acceptance speech, Folorunsho emphasized the importance of translating humanitarian ideals into daily practice, stressing that it was the duty of the humanitarian community to prevent and alleviate suffering wherever it was found, with a special focus on the most vulnerable. He also highlighted the need to offer help to the needy, regardless of religion, and to provide dignity and care to the less privileged.
“Love your neighbour as yourself. Nigerians are neighbours to one another, and everyone in need is our neighbour,” he said, underscoring the importance of compassion and empathy in humanitarian work.
Dr. Bashir Jamoh, immediate past Director-General of the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), another notable awardee, called for a central body to protect humanitarian workers, citing the frequent attacks and threats faced by residents in the North East region. He also urged the media to help change negative narratives by educating the public and drawing attention to the plight of the less privileged.
Other awardees included Prince (Engr) Arthur Eze, Assistant Comptroller of Customs ACG Isah Umar Gusau represented the Customs Boss CGC Bashir Adeniyi who received Lifetime Humanitarian Hero on Institutional Reforms and his wife, Mrs Kikelomo Adeniyi who was also honored with Empower-Her Legacy Award, Prince Donatus Chukwunonso Okonkwo, Chairman, Tetrazzini Group and Founder, The Prince Okonkwo Foundation received Distinguish Impact Leader Award for Innovation, Empowerment & Humanitarian Excellence and was represented by Mr Alex Nwankwo (Alex Reports) Chief Mike Ejiogu, founder of City Gate Homes, Jammal Mohammed and others who were recognized for their various contributions to humanitarian causes and societal development.
In his speech, Ikechukwu Norbert, founder of the HSD Awards, emphasized the importance of humanitarian ideals and the impact of collective efforts on humanity. He noted that the awardees’ selfless contributions serve as an inspiration to others, highlighting the importance of compassion, service, and the pursuit of human dignity.
“Champions rise when the challenge is toughest,” a selomn statement that deeply resonated with the awardees and attendees, encapsulating the essence of humanitarian service and the HSD Awards’ mission to recognize and celebrate outstanding contributions to humanity.
The HSD Awards is an annual event that celebrates individuals and organizations for their contributions to humanitarian causes and societal development. This year’s edition highlighted compassion, service, and the pursuit of human dignity, recognizing those who have made lasting impacts through community development, philanthropy, and social responsibility.
As the evening drew to a close, it was clear that the HSD Awards had once again brought together a community of dedicated individuals and organizations committed to making a difference in the world. The event brought to mind the great impact collective efforts can have on humanity, and the importance of continued support for humanitarian causes.
