Nigeria LNG Limited (NLNG) has honoured former Minister of Power, Professor Bart Nnaji, on his 70th birthday, recognising his more than two decades of contributions to the governance, credibility and international profile of The Nigeria Prize for Science and Innovation.
The tribute was delivered during a colloquium held in celebration of Professor Nnaji’s milestone birthday, where NLNG highlighted his longstanding role in shaping one of Nigeria’s foremost science and innovation awards since its establishment in 2004.
Speaking at the event, NLNG’s Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Adeleye Falade, represented by the General Manager for External Relations and Sustainable Development, Sophia Horsfall, described Nnaji as one of the earliest champions of the Prize and a key figure in its evolution.
“Professor Nnaji has been part of the Prize’s journey since its inception in 2004. Through his intellectual leadership, strategic counsel and sustained advocacy, he has helped shape its vision, strengthen stakeholder confidence and advance its role as a platform for scientific innovation and national development,” Horsfall said.
NLNG recalled that one of Professor Nnaji’s earliest contributions came during the inaugural Grand Award Night in Abuja on October 9, 2004, when he delivered the keynote lecture titled “Leapfrogging Science and Technology in Nigeria.” The address reinforced the Prize’s objective of promoting science, technology and innovation as key drivers of Nigeria’s economic and social development.
According to the company, his early endorsement helped build awareness of the initiative among scientists, policymakers, researchers and other stakeholders, laying the foundation for its continued growth and credibility.
Professor Nnaji’s involvement deepened in 2013 when he participated in a strategic stakeholder review organised by NLNG to strengthen the governance and administration of the Prize. His recommendations contributed to reforms that enhanced operational processes, improved transparency and reinforced stakeholder confidence.
In recognition of his sustained commitment, NLNG appointed Professor Nnaji as Chairman of the Advisory Board of The Nigeria Prize for Science and Innovation in 2022. Since assuming the role, he has supported the Prize’s international outreach, leveraging his global academic reputation and professional network to foster stronger engagement with leading scientists, researchers and innovation experts worldwide.
Falade noted that Professor Nnaji’s relationship with the Prize extends well beyond his official responsibilities, describing him as an integral part of its institutional legacy.
“Professor Nnaji is part of the history of The Nigeria Prize for Science and Innovation and a valued member of the NLNG family. As he marks this important milestone, we celebrate his distinguished record as a scientist, public servant and leader in Nigeria’s power industry. We wish him good health and many more years of impactful service to Nigeria and the wider society,” he said.
Established in 2004 and sponsored by NLNG, The Nigeria Prize for Science and Innovation recognises scientists and innovators whose research provides practical solutions to challenges of national importance. The annual competition is open to qualified entrants from across the world, reinforcing its position as one of Africa’s leading science and innovation awards.
The recognition of Professor Nnaji underscores NLNG’s continued commitment to advancing scientific excellence, research-driven innovation and sustainable national development through global collaboration and knowledge exchange.