By Queen Kunde
The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Nigeria Export Processing Zones Authority (NEPZA), Dr. Olufemi Ogunyemi, has been honoured with the Award of Exemplary Leadership Qualities in Public Service by the Association of Corporate Online Editors (ACOE) for his role in transforming Nigeria’s free trade zones and strengthening media engagement.
Speaking while receiving the award in Abuja on Thursday, Ogunyemi revealed a lesser-known chapter of his career, disclosing that he worked as a columnist for veteran journalist Sam Amuka’s publication before his appointment by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
“Most people don’t know that before the President appointed me here, I was writing articles for Sam Amuka. For three years, if you Google ‘The Pain Doctor’, I had a column there every week,” he said.
The NEPZA boss explained that his background in journalism gave him a deep appreciation of the media and its critical role in shaping public understanding of government policies and national development.
According to him, when he assumed office three years ago, NEPZA was already managing more than 63 free trade zones with about 700 enterprises and nearly 600 staff nationwide, yet many Nigerians were unaware of the agency’s impact on the economy.
“When I joined NEPZA three years ago, these zones were doing a lot of great work for the country, but the public did not know about it. I knew we needed to bring the media closer,” Ogunyemi said.
He commended journalists and media organisations for helping to spotlight the activities of NEPZA and increasing public awareness of the economic benefits of free trade zones.
Presenting the award, ACOE Chairman, Mr. Shola Akingboye, described Ogunyemi as a visionary public servant whose leadership has significantly advanced the growth of free trade zones and investment opportunities across Nigeria.
“It is a great honour to present this Award of Exemplary Leadership Qualities in Public Service to our esteemed Chief Executive Officer,” Akingboye said.
He noted that the presentation was made after Ogunyemi was unable to attend the association’s investiture ceremony held in November last year.
Akingboye praised the NEPZA chief for his integrity, dedication and forward-looking leadership style, saying his achievements have contributed immensely to economic growth and national development.
“You have consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership through dedication, integrity and a forward-thinking approach to public service,” he added.
Responding, Ogunyemi said he rarely accepts awards because of his busy schedule but chose to receive the honour personally because of the association’s credibility and his respect for the media profession.
“I’m taking this very seriously, and that is why I’m here. I pray that we continue to work together to improve our country,” he said.
The award underscores Ogunyemi’s growing reputation as a reform-minded leader who has not only expanded the visibility of Nigeria’s free trade zones but also built stronger partnerships with the media in advancing national development.