New Telegraph Aviation Editor, Wole Shadare bags NANS Excellence Award

Ace Aviation writer and Author, Wole Shadare, has received the award for diligence and work commitment, said to have qualified him as a role model for Nigerian youth.

Shadare’s feat in aviation reporting spurred the body of students to consider him for recognition at the event which took place at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, Kaduna State, Tuesday.

He was nominated and selected among the few Nigerian personalities that received the Leadership Award at the NANS Public Lecture in A B U Zaria, Kaduna State.

The NANS nomination letter to Shadare reads, “After carrying out our independent survey, our searchlight spotted you and your impeccable stride as a seasoned technocrat, a multiple award-winning journalist, a bridge builder, and a man who has the interest of the youths and students at heart. It is imperative for us to be identified with you and submit ourselves to your mentorship.”

The theme of the Lecture for the event was, “Building A Strong Advocacy For Increased Investment in Higher Education”.

In his keynote address, the Vice Chancellor Of Ahmadu Bello University, (ABU), Zaria, Professor Kabiru Bala, emphasised that investing in education is very important, adding that the government has tried well enough to make it accessible by providing facilities through interventions.

According to him, for the education system to work there must be an increase in funding.

While challenging the students to carry ABU’s flag high anywhere they found themselves and to be good ambassadors of ABU.

The Vice-Chancellor advised students to disregard lingering calls playing down the acquisition of degrees 

He said, even though skills acquisition is important, it will not be profitable without sound education and, as such, a waste of energy.

Also speaking, the Chairman of the occasion, Engr. Gbenga Komolafe, Chief Executive Officer Nigeria Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission, who was represented by Alh. Garba Salihu, Director of Exploration, said the commission will continue to support the students.

He said many students have benefited from his commission’s support scheme as they approved research topics for students who want to specialise in the Oil and Gas sector.

Ten personalities were inducted and decorated while many were honoured with awards of excellence.

Shadare is a journalist with experience spanning over two decades and co-author of the book; ‘Aviation in Nigeria: Unsung Heroes and Heroines.’