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Kumasi, Ghana – At a lavish ceremony celebrating the anniversary of the Millennium Excellence Prize in Kumasi, Ghana, Nigeria’s President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was awarded the prestigious Millennium Lifetime Achievement Award. The honour was accepted on his behalf by Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, but the accolade has sparked debate given the severe economic challenges facing Nigerians under Tinubu’s administration.

In a speech delivered by Ms Odumegwu-Ojukwu, President Tinubu praised King Otumfuo Ossei-Tutu II, Asantehene and Grand Patron of the institution, and urged Africans to unite in shaping the continent’s future. He lauded the Millennium Excellence Prize, established in 1988, for its commitment to recognising those advancing African development, citing past recipients like Archbishop Desmond Tutu, President Cyril Ramaphosa, and Dr Mo Ibrahim.

However, the timing of the award has drawn scrutiny. Nigeria is grappling with soaring inflation, fuel price hikes, and widespread poverty, exacerbated by Tinubu’s economic policies, including the removal of fuel subsidies and naira devaluation. Critics argue that celebrating the President with such a distinguished honour feels tone-deaf when millions of Nigerians struggle to afford necessities. How can we laud leadership when ordinary citizens are suffering?

While the Millennium Excellence Prize aims to celebrate African progress, Tinubu’s recognition raises questions about whether his contributions align with the institution’s values of service and excellence, or if the award overlooks the pressing realities faced by Nigerians.