NJOKU MACDONALD OBINNA
In the warming evening of Saturday, 31st January, 2026, the Expo Convention Centre— Eko Hotels and Suites—Victoria Island—Lagos State— was greeted with elegance, presence of prominent Nigerians who exchanged compliments and business contacts in a most friendly atmosphere of social conviviality; one of celebration and great anticipation as the Chairman of Zobis Cables Ltd— Chief John Ezeobi (Akuabata of Ezinifite) — stepped onto the stage to receive the Sun Industrialist of the Year Award, 2025. It was a day that would be remembered not just for the glamour of the night, but for the recognition of men and women whose work continues to shape Nigeria’s destiny and inspire the next generation of business leaders.
He was accompanied by his beautiful wife alongside friends, business associates; a circle of support and cheer that reflected the personal side of a man whose outstanding achievements in the Nigeria’s electrical engineering and industrial development have long spoken for themselves.
The ceremony, chaired by Chief Barr. Onyema Allen, the Chairman of Air Peace Airlines, and anchored by Prof. Obiora Okonkwo, Chairman of United Nigeria Airlines, drew an impressive assemblage of Nigeria’s political leaders and corporate tigers. Among the dignitaries present were representatives of the President of the Nigerian Senate— Godswill Akpabio, Deputy Senate President, Senator Jibrin Barau, governors Peter Mbah (Enugu), Dauda Lawal (Zamfara), Abba Kabir Yusuf (Kano), Bassey Otu (Cross River), and Dapo Abiodun (Ogun), alongside ministers, diplomats, traditional rulers, and leading industrialists.
While the evening celebrated Nigeria’s finest across governance, entrepreneurship, public service, and culture, John Ezeobi’s recognition stood as a symbol of industrial vision, innovation, and economic impact. Zobis Cables, under his leadership, has not only set the standard for quality and technological advancement but has also contributed significantly to job creation and industrial growth in Nigeria.
The event, according to the Publisher of 4th Estate Reporters, an eye witness to the watershed ceremony, also highlighted other uncommon achievers who have excelled in various fields. High Chief Duru Mike Ejiogu, Chairman of Citygate Group, received the Sun Entrepreneur of the Year Award, celebrating his transformative work in real estate. High Chief Peter Chibuike Orogwu, founder of Chuby-Zion Nigeria Ltd., were also recognised for their exceptional entrepreneurial impacts.
In the sphere of public service, Dr. Emeka Agbasi, MD/CEO of the Federal Road Maintenance Agency (FERMA), and Prof. Stella Ifeanyi Smith, Director of Research at the Nigerian Institute of Medical Research, received the Public Service Personality Award. The hospitality industry was celebrated with Mr. Paul Onwuanibe (Landmark Africa Group) and Chief Livinus Anigbogu (AG Lexon Nig. Limited) earning the Hospitality Icon Award. Kenneth Okonkwo, the actor and public speaker, was honoured as Nollywood Icon, while young innovators like Mrs. Onyeka Michael-Ugwu (Founder, Hello Perfect) and Mr. Tunde Onakoya (Founder, Chess in Slum Africa) received Young Achievers Awards.
The awards also extended to leadership and politics: Governor Peter Mbah (Enugu State) and Senator Solomon Adeola (Ogun West) were recognised as Men of the Year, while Nyesom Wike and Gov. Seyi Makinde were celebrated for their political contributions. Lifetime achievements were acknowledged with honours to Oba Rashidi Ladoja (Olubadan of Ibadanland), Bishop Mike Okonkwo, Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe, Alhaji Buba Galadima, and Chief Simeon Eyisi. The Most Outstanding Royal Father of the Year went to HRH Igwe Kenneth Orizu III, Igwe of Nnewi Kingdom, while humanitarian recognition was given to Sen. Jubrin Barau and Chief Obioma Success Akagburuonye.
Despite the glittering roster of honourees, the applause that welcomed Chief John Ezeobi to the stage carried a unique resonance. Surrounded by the smiling support of his wife and friends, he acknowledged the honour with humility: “An award is not merely recognition,” he said, “it is a responsibility, to lead, to innovate, and to contribute meaningfully to the nation’s progress”. His words underscored the significance of industrial leadership in building Nigeria’s economy and inspiring the next generation of industrialists.
Broadcast live and streamed across the nation, the ceremony placed John Ezeobi’s achievement in a national and global spotlight, affirming that true industrial leadership is measured not just by profits, but by the tangible impact on society, workforce, and the economy.
The evening was a glittering affair, replete with joyous laughter, heartfelt speeches, warm embraces, powerful networking, and exchange of business complimentary cards amidst luminaries and achievers from every sphere.
According to the Chairman of Mekens Integrated Nigeria Ltd— High Chief Dr. Amb. Anthony Ikenna Obele (Okwunze Aguata)— “the award is well deserved and quite befitting of an industrial giant. To the 7 Star General: John Ezeobi emerged not only as an award-winning industrialist but as a beacon for Nigerian manufacturing, a reminder that vision, perseverance, and innovation remain the bedrock of national progress.“
Njoku Macdonald Obinna
Media Consultant|Newspaper Columnist|Public Analyst|PR- Expert
Publisher, 4th Estate Reporters.