BY SUNDAY EGEDE
THE Delta State Commissioner for Works (Highways and Urban Roads), Comrade Reuben Izeze, has been awarded the prestigious Kwame Nkrumah Grow Africa Prize for Excellence, in recognition of his outstanding contributions to infrastructure development and public service delivery in Nigeria.
The award, which was announced during the 2025 Grow Africa Leadership Summit held in Accra, Ghana, celebrates individuals who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, innovation, and impact in advancing socio-economic development across the African continent.
Izeze emerged as this year’s laureate following a rigorous nomination and selection process involving leaders from across various sectors in Africa.
Presenting the award to Izeze at his office in Asaba, President, Grow Africa Youth Initiative, Comrade Uzim Temple, praised Izeze for his transformative work in Delta State, citing major infrastructure projects he supervised, efficient governance practices, and his unwavering commitment to sustainable development as key factors that earned him the honour.
In particular, his efforts in expanding road networks, streamlining project execution, and championing youth employment through public works were highlighted as exemplary.
“We honour you today for your hardwork and dedication to grassroots development and support to young people, high administrative acumen and selfless leadership ideology, educational development through bursary awards.
“You are a team player who carries everyone along irrespective of tribe, religion or gender, a public servant with zero tolerance for corruption, nepotism and favoritism and for your exemplary lifestyle which promotes African moral value worthy of emulation by the youths,” Temple said.
Receiving the award, Izeze dedicated the recognition to the people of Delta State and the administration of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori. “This award is not just about me; it is a reflection of what dedicated governance and collective vision can achieve. I thank Grow Africa Youths Initiative and the selection committee for this honour, and I remain committed to building a better future for our people,” he said.
The Kwame Nkrumah Grow Africa Prize for Excellence is named after the legendary Pan-Africanist and first President of Ghana, and is regarded as one of the continent’s most respected honours for leadership in public service and development.
Past recipients include former heads of state, technocrats, and visionary leaders from across Africa contributing to the continent’s commitment to home-grown solutions and leadership excellence.
Comrade Izeze’s recognition is seen as a significant milestone for Delta State and a beacon of inspiration for young leaders in Nigeria and beyond.
