Former Vice Chancellor of the University of Benin, Prof. Lilian Imuetinyan Salami, was on Wednesday honored with the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award at the LAPO Outstanding Women Leadership Award (LAOLA) ceremony in Benin.
Themed “Breaking Barriers: Accelerating Equity,” this year’s event underscored the urgent call for gender inclusiveness and fairness. Prof. Salami, who served as the Vice Chancellor of UNIBEN from 2019 to 2024, was recognized for her significant contributions to the education sector. Throughout her distinguished career, she lectured at various universities and played a key role in advancing academic excellence.
President and Chief Operating Officer of LAPO, Faith Osazuwa-Ojo, emphasized the importance of collective efforts in driving gender equity.
“Today’s event is a reminder that progress is not automatic. It requires collective action, policy reform, and continuous advocacy to dismantle the barriers that still hinder women from fully realizing their potential,” Osazuwa-Ojo stated. “We must work towards a society where women’s leadership is not the exception but the norm, where women’s achievements are celebrated, and where their contributions are recognized as integral to national prosperity.”
Osazuwa-Ojo further highlighted that this year’s theme emphasizes the need to create a world where gender equality is not just an aspiration but a reality.
“Equity extends beyond equal opportunities; it requires us to ensure that women receive the necessary resources, support, and recognition to reach their full potential, regardless of societal constraints,” she added.
In addition to Prof. Salami’s recognition, other outstanding women were celebrated for their contributions across various sectors. Saidatu Bello won the professional category award, Pastor Isoken Uyi received the farming award, and Adora Ubochi was recognized in the business category.
Each award recipient received a cash prize of N500,000, with accommodations, transportation, and feeding also provided to ensure their comfort during the event.
The ceremony served as a powerful reminder of the ongoing efforts needed to promote gender equity and celebrate women who have defied limitations and contributed significantly to societal progress.