Mbah Emerges The Sun Man of the Year 2025, Pledges to Deepen Governance Reforms
Governor of Enugu State, Dr Peter Mbah, has been named The Sun Newspapers Man of the Year 2025, with a pledge to intensify efforts at raising the standard of governance and delivering sustainable development to the people of the state.
The award was presented at the 2025 edition of The Sun Awards, held in Lagos at the weekend, where Mbah was recognised for what the organisers described as transformative leadership driven by innovation and inclusive governance.
In his citation, The Sun Newspapers said the governor distinguished himself by breaking barriers and delivering far-reaching reforms across critical sectors within a short period, through what it termed “disruptive innovation and purposeful leadership.”
Chairman and Publisher of Sun Publishing Limited, Mrs Neya Kalu, said the award ceremony was a reminder that progress and excellence remain possible despite Nigeria’s challenging socio-economic climate.
“While the nation is navigating a demanding era, we must not lose sight of the progress woven into our journey,” she said, adding that the 2025 awards celebrated individuals who dared to stand out.
“Moments like this remind us that even in complex seasons, greatness still rises.”
Presenting the award, Founder and former Chairman of Sun Publishing Limited, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, described Mbah as a leader steadily rebuilding Enugu State and delivering measurable results across sectors.
“He is a governor who is tilling the ground. That is a better way of describing him,” Kalu said, reiterating that The Sun was established as a public trust and remained apolitical in its editorial decisions and awards process.
“It is owned by the Nigerian people, and that is why The Sun is apolitical,” he stated.
In his acceptance speech, Mbah dedicated the award to members of his team, noting that leadership success was rooted in collective effort.
“One is nothing without a team. I receive this award on behalf of my team, whose commitment, selfless work ethic and dedication have translated our bold ideas into visible progress,” he said.
He commended The Sun for upholding the values of credible journalism, stressing that the recognition would further spur his administration to do more.
“Our work is not done. We are not going to slow down. This award will rather challenge us to continue to raise the bar of governance, deepen reforms and deliver the future that Ndi Enugu truly deserve,” Mbah said.
Chairman of the occasion and Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of Air Peace, Dr Allen Onyema, said Mbah’s emergence as Man of the Year further reinforced the credibility of The Sun Awards.
“The Sun Awards is one of the most credible awards in the country. When you look at my brother, the governor of Enugu State, who will fault him as Man of the Year? Nobody. He merits what he is getting,” Onyema said.
Earlier, in his welcome address, Managing Director of Sun Publishing Limited, Mr Onuoha Ukeh, described the awardees as “Uncommon Achievers” who had chosen to rise above limitations and chart new paths.
“In a world where conformity often seems like the easiest option, these individuals have taken risks, confronted challenges head-on and emerged victorious,” Ukeh said, adding that their achievements underscored the power of determination, resilience and human potential.
EDITOR
Sam Udekwe is a journalist working in the News and Current Affairs department, Enugu State Broadcasting Service (ESBS) Enugu. He is well trained in all genres of journalistic venture.
Mr Sam read Mass Communication, graduating all with Distinction in National Diploma, Higher National Diploma and Postgraduate Diploma at IMT, Enugu and Madonna University, Okija, Anambra state, as well as M.Sc Mass Communication at National Open University of Nigeria.
He is the immediate past NUJ Chairman, Enugu state.
samowailo@gmail.com
