Runsewe Honours Maidugu, Osunsanya, and 16 Others with NCAC Excellence Awards
Jerry Adesewo
In a prestigious ceremony, the National Council for Arts and Culture (NCAC) bestowed the NCAC Excellence Service Award upon its former Director General, Mallam M.M. Maidugu, in recognition of his ten years of dedicated service from 2004 to 2014. The award was presented by the current Director General of the agency, Otunba Olusegun Runsewe, OON, who commended the former DG for his exemplary leadership and pioneering efforts
Runsewe acknowledged the enduring impact of Maidugu’s leadership, stating, “We recognise your efforts and the foundations you have laid, and that’s why you are qualified to be here today, to receive this token of appreciation from an agency you laboured for.” He humorously added his desire to be remembered similarly when his time at the agency concludes.
In addition, sixteen other distinguished honourees, including retired directors of the agency, were recognised for their significant contributions. Among them were Mr. Dotun Osunsanya, a veteran theatre maker and former director of the performing department; Mr. James Obeahon; Mr. Victor Omoniyi; Mrs. JT. Akinyemi; Mrs. K.A. Akinyede; Mrs. Hajara Njida; Mrs. Anne Goodswill; and Mr. Isa Afegbua, among others.
Expressing gratitude on behalf of the awardees, Mallam Maidugu remarked, “I am honoured. And I am sure that one who honours is deserving of honour too. That is why we must always do our best when given the opportunity.” He further challenged commissioners and directors of state art councils to elevate the art and culture sector in Nigeria, emphasizing the importance of hard work in achieving this goal.