AUST Bursar Receives National Outstanding Leadership Award From NANS
The Bursar and Financial Director of African University of Science and Technology (AUST), Abuja, Mr. Ben Obi Okonkwo on Tuesday, February 24,2026 was honored with an outstanding Leadership Award by the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS).
The award ceremony which took place at the Boardroom 2 of the African University of Science and Technology, Abuja attracted colleagues and friends of the award recipient.
The President of AUST, Prof. Azikiwe Peter Onwualu, FAS, who was represented at the event by Dr. Vitalis Anye, Dean, School of Engineering, conveyed the appreciation of the university leadership to NANS for the award given to the university's Bursar and more especially for recognizing professionalism, integrity, and ethical leadership within AUST, noting that the institution remains committed to nurturing accountable leadership and impactful partnerships with student bodies.
In his response, the National Vice President of NANS, Comrade Lawal Apounds, who represented the NANS National President stated that they came to AUST to give honor to whom honor is due and to seek for veritable ways NANS and the university can partner.
He pointed out that that the AUST Bursar is being honored with this award in recognition of his contributions to transparent financial stewardship and institutional development maintaining that the award came as a result of a rigorous merit-based review process. He then afterwards bestowed on Mr. Ben Obi Okonkwo, FCA the Outstanding Leadership Award to the glory of God.
In his acceptance speech, Mr. Okonkwo expressed his deep appreciation to NANS and described the recognition as both humbling and symbolic.
He. noted that being honoured by Nigeria’s apex students body, representing over 40 million young people was a responsibility he would not take for granted "to be recognized by Nigerian students, the very heartbeat of this nation’s future, is an honour anyone must appreciate with utmost humility as this award is not as a result of personal achievement alone but a reflection of the integrity-driven culture of AUST.” Mr. Okonkwo enthused.
He dedicated the award to the entire AUST community, emphasizing that effective financial governance is only possible within an institution that values excellence and accountability.
He charged NANS and the entire Nigerian students to continue demanding accountability and pursuing knowledge with purpose describing the award given to him as a renewed call for more selfless service.
The ceremony witnessed discussions on strengthening collaboration between AUST and the students body including opportunities in innovation, entrepreneurship, research development, and participation in continental initiatives such as the Africa X Summit, gender equality and inclusive student participation were highlighted as shared priorities.
Several AUST principal officers were present to witness the award ceremony. They include, Mrs. Murna Opatola, Director of Works and Physical Planning; Mrs. Bolade Igbagbo, Head of Human Resources and Logistics; Mrs. Buchi Ekpolomo, Chief Librarian; Mr. Augustine Uzoma Ikeagwu, Chief Internal Auditor; Dr. Michael Amonye, SIWES Coordinator; Dr. Anthony Anyakora, Head of AUST Consultancy Services; Mr. Kingsley Ogwudu, Senior Manager, AUSTInspire; Mr. Victor Ejiro; Mr. Ahmed Aliyu and others.