The Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Dr. Kingsley Tochukwu Udeh, SAN, has been named Public Sector Person of the Year at the 6th Frontier Discourse Annual Public Lecture Series and Awards.
Udeh received the award on Tuesday at Merit House, Maitama, Abuja, in recognition of his leadership and efforts to reposition Nigeria’s science, technology and innovation sector.
The recognition followed his drive to align the Federal Ministry of Innovation, Science and Technology and its 17 agencies with measurable performance targets, research commercialisation and the development of market-ready solutions from scientific discoveries.
According to Pacesetter Frontier Magazine, which organised the event, Udeh has demonstrated a results-oriented approach to governance since assuming office in November 2025, with emphasis on practical outcomes rather than routine administrative processes.
The publication noted that his experience as a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, former Attorney-General of Enugu State and public-law scholar had shaped his approach to institutional reforms and public-sector management.
Among his priorities are promoting local value addition to raw materials, advancing indigenous technologies in agriculture, energy and safety, establishing innovation hubs and model laboratories, and strengthening international collaborations in artificial intelligence and technology transfer.
The magazine also highlighted his Energise Commercialisation Now (ECoN) initiative, which seeks to connect research institutions with the marketplace by transforming scientific discoveries into commercially viable products and services.
Other programmes highlighted include the Tinubu Light Initiative, NextGen Innovation Challenge, and Youths and Students in Innovation, all designed to strengthen Nigeria’s innovation ecosystem and create opportunities for young people and technology-driven businesses.
It further noted the minister’s emphasis on skills development and preparing a workforce capable of supporting technological advancement, industrial competitiveness and sustainable economic growth.
The publication said the initiatives align with the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly its ambition to make science, technology and innovation key drivers of economic diversification and industrial development.
The award ceremony was part of the 6th Frontier Discourse Annual Public Lecture Series, held under the theme, “Barrel to Ballot: The Naturalisation of Violence, Nigeria’s Polity and its Democratic Circus.”
The Minister of Art, Culture and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, chaired the event, while human rights lawyer, Femi Falana, SAN, and the Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu, delivered keynote addresses.
The panel session featured former Kaduna Central Senator, Shehu Sani; APC Deputy National Chairman (South), Dr. Ben Nwoye; Prof. Okey Ikechukwu; Special Adviser to President Tinubu on Economic Affairs, Dr. Tope Fasua; and Zainab Buba Galadima.
The annual gathering, organised by Pacesetter Frontier Magazine, brings together political leaders, policymakers, professionals and other stakeholders to discuss governance, democracy and development in Nigeria and Africa.
