LAGOS, NIGERIA — The African Union, in collaboration with the Global Excellence Summit Committee, proudly honored the Ambassador-at-Large and Head of Diplomatic Mission of the International Human Rights Commission-IHRC Corporation in Nigeria, H.E. Ambassador Dr. Duru Hezekiah, with the prestigious Agenda 2063 Women’s Impact Award on “Global Excellence in Diplomacy and Leadership: Africa’s Path to Prosperity”, during the Global Excellence Summit held on 24th May 2025 at the Oriental Hotel, Lagos State.
This distinguished recognition celebrates Dr. Hezekiah’s exceptional leadership, unwavering dedication, and transformative impact in advancing the goals of Agenda 2063, particularly as they pertain to women’s empowerment, education, innovation, and inclusive development across Africa.
A respected diplomat, humanitarian, and development advocate, Dr. Duru has long championed initiatives aimed at creating equitable opportunities for women and girls, fostering sustainable community development, and shaping policy dialogue across the continent. His commitment to building an Africa driven by its people, especially women and youth, aligns perfectly with the African Union’s vision of an integrated, prosperous, and peaceful continent.
Presenting the award, representatives of the African Union commended Dr. Duru for his visionary approach to empowering future generations through education, capacity building, and socio-economic development programs. They emphasized the significance of his contributions in advancing the implementation of Agenda 2063 Aspiration 6, which envisions “an Africa whose development is people-driven, relying on the potential offered by African people, especially its women and youth, and caring for children.”
In his acceptance speech, Dr. Duru Hezekiah expressed deep gratitude to the African Union and the Summit Committee, stating:
“This award is not just a personal honor; it is a reaffirmation of our collective responsibility to uplift, empower, and invest in women across the continent. Africa’s future lies in the strength and vision of its women, and I remain committed to advancing that cause at every level.”
He reiterated the role of IHRC in the Nigerian Policy on Business and Human Rights, which constitutes a vital component of a broader global initiative aimed at ensuring that businesses consistently adhere to international human rights standards throughout their operations and supply chains.
This policy is directly aligned with prominent international frameworks, notably the United Nations Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights (UNGPs), which clearly delineate the obligations of states and enterprises in preventing human rights abuses.
He assured IHRC’s continued efforts and steadfast commitment in Nigeria and across Africa to holding businesses accountable for their human rights responsibilities, actively advocating for enhanced human rights protections within the corporate sector.
“Additionally, as Ambassador-at-Large and Head of Diplomatic Mission IHRC Nigeria, I do not claim sole credit for these accomplishments. I am indebted to all those who have contributed to it, and most especially Prof. h.c. Rafał Marcin Wasik, Secretary-General and Global Chairman of the International Human Rights Commission, for the encouragement and platform reposed on me; his vast contributions to the improvement of people’s lives and maintaining peace in the world have left an indelible mark on society”.
The Global Excellence Summit 2025 brought together influential leaders, policymakers, entrepreneurs, and change-makers from across Africa and beyond, under the theme: “Leadership, Legacy, and the Future of Africa.” Dr. Duru’s award stood out as one of the summit’s highlights, symbolizing his critical leadership role in Africa’s development agenda.
Signed:
Fidelis Onakpoma
Head Media and Strategic Communications IHRC Nigeria
congratulations his Excellency
Congratulations