The Nigerian-Canadian Association of Calgary (NCAC) has conferred its Distinguished Citizen Award on the Chairman and Founder of NOVA Merchant Bank, Mr. Phillips Oduoza, in recognition of his numerous contributions to the development of the financial sector in Nigeria.
Also, the association honoured Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, the Director-General of World Trade Organisation (WTO) and former Minister of Finance, during its Gala Night event to commemorate Nigeria’s Independence Day in Calgary, Canada recently.
While speaking at the event, the President of NCAC, Dr. Patrick Etokudo, said Oduoza and Okonjo-Iweala were honoured due of their distinguished services and contributions to the financial and economic development of Nigeria, Africa and the world at large.
He said: “In these two Nigerians – Mr. Phillips Oduoza and Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, we have esteemed personalities who have shown commitment to the growth of mankind and Nigerian-Canadian relationships with their contributions, thus representing the best of Nigeria.”
In his acceptance speech, Oduoza thanked the NCAC for the award, and urged Nigerians and Africans in Canada and the bigger diaspora to prioritise investments in Nigeria and on the continent. He said the situation at home was not as bad as being portrayed by certian sections of the media.
He said: “Every country has its own peculiar challenges and Nigeria is not an exception. Nigeria is a country with enormous opportunities across all sectors. I am convinced that Nigeria and larger Africa will get it right soon.”
While talking further, he urged Nigerians in Canada to keep in touch with their home country.
The NCAC commemorates the Nigerian Independence Anniversary every year in an event that brings together over a thousand guests to celebrate Nigeria’s freedom and showcase the Nigerian culture, excellence and successes.
Business leaders, public and private sectors leaders including representatives of the Governor of Alberta and Nigerian High Commissioner attended this year’s event.
