Recognition highlights leadership, innovation, and technological excellence in advancing Africa’s security landscape.
Doha, Qatar — December 2024
Nigeria took center stage at the 18th Africa Security Watch Conference and Awards, as distinguished leaders, institutions, and innovators were honoured for their exceptional contributions to national and continental security.
The high-profile event, held from December 10–13, 2024, at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Doha, Qatar, brought together security experts, policymakers, and industry leaders from Nigeria, Guinea Bissau, Kenya, The Gambia, South Africa, and Qatar. The annual gathering continues to serve as a strategic platform for fostering collaboration, sharing innovative strategies, and celebrating excellence in Africa’s evolving security environment.
Prominent Nigerian Leaders Drive Strategic Security Conversations
Three distinguished Nigerian figures were selected as lead speakers for the 2024 conference:
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Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum, Governor of Borno State, delivered the keynote address on “Developing Modules for People-Centric Governance towards Enhancement of Peace and Security.”
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General Christopher Musa, Chief of Defence Staff, explored the crucial link between socio-economic development and national defence.
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Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Governor of Lagos State, shared Lagos State’s innovative approaches to urban security and governance.
According to Patrick Agbambu, International Coordinator and CEO of the Africa Security Watch Initiative (SWAI), the conference theme was carefully chosen to address Africa’s pressing security challenges and drive actionable outcomes.
“Over 70% of Africa remains affected by various levels of insecurity. As a result, development stagnates, fear prevails, and too many of our citizens remain trapped in poverty,” Agbambu stated.
Awards Highlight Excellence Across Key Sectors
This year’s awards ceremony spotlighted outstanding individuals and institutions making significant contributions to security, governance, and media in Africa.
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Mallam Jibrin Baba Ndace, Director-General of Voice of Nigeria, received the Golden Star Award for Exemplary National Security Service through Media, accepted on his behalf by Brigadier-General SK Usman (rtd).
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Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu was honoured as the Best Security and Safety Conscious State Governor/Premier in Africa, with the award received by Dr. Ayo Ogunsan of the Lagos State Security Trust Fund.
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The Nigeria Customs Service, represented by Chief Superintendent of Customs Abdullahi Maiwada on behalf of Comptroller-General Adewale Adeniyi, presented its transformative strategies in intelligence-led border security and trade facilitation.
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The Gambia Police Force, under the leadership of Inspector General Seedy Mukhtar Touray, received the Golden Star Award for Best National Police Force in West Africa (2023/2024) at a separate ceremony in Accra, Ghana.
Technological Excellence in National Security Recognized
A key highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of the Golden Star Award for National Security Support through Technological Excellence to Mr. Ikerionwu Ifeanyi Fredrick.
Mr. Ikerionwu was honoured for his remarkable contributions as the Nigerian Army’s Web Developer from 2013 to 2023, during which he played a pivotal role in safeguarding critical national digital infrastructure.
His recognition underscores the growing importance of cybersecurity and technological innovation in strengthening national security frameworks across the continent.
Building a Safer, More Secure Africa
The 2024 conference, themed “Developing Module for People-Centric Governance Towards Enhancement of Peace and Security,” explored innovative governance approaches that prioritize citizen engagement, peacebuilding, and sustainable security strategies.
The gathering provided a platform for critical discussions, actionable recommendations, and recognition of individuals and organizations that are driving positive change across Africa’s security landscape.
About Security Watch Africa Initiative
Security Watch Africa Initiative is a leading Pan-African platform dedicated to promoting peace, security, and development through strategic dialogue, recognition of excellence, and collaborative engagement among stakeholders. Through its annual conferences and awards, it continues to champion innovative approaches to security challenges across the continent.