Permanent Secretary Receives National Ethics and Values Award for Ethical Leadership, Youth Development
Oru Leonard
ABUJA, August 14, 2026 — The Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Youth Development, Dr. Maryam Ismaila Keshinro, has received the National Ethics and Values Award 2026 for Ethical Public Service Leadership and Youth Development in recognition of her commitment to integrity, accountability, ethical leadership and excellence in public service.
The award was presented at a ceremony held at NICON Luxury Hotel, Abuja, and chaired by the Chairman, House Committee on Information, National Orientation, Ethics and Values, Hon. Steve Olushola Fatoba.
The event was held under the theme, “Ethics in Action: Leadership, Integrity, Legacy — Reflecting on Our Journey, Inspiring a Future Grounded in Accountability and Moral Courage.”
While receiving the award, Keshinro dedicated the honour to her father, whom she described as a strong advocate for girl-child education. She also dedicated the recognition to the management staff of the Ministry, acknowledging their collective support and contribution to the Ministry’s achievements.
She expressed appreciation to the Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, for his support, encouragement and confidence in her leadership.
The Permanent Secretary stressed that values such as unity, justice, equity, tolerance, responsibility, diligence, integrity and mutual respect remain critical to Nigeria’s development.
She noted that the country’s diversity should be harnessed as a source of strength and unity rather than division.
“Integrity is who you are even when nobody else is looking at you,” she said.
Keshinro urged public servants to uphold professionalism, excellence and commitment to citizens, stressing the need to place the national interest above personal interests in the discharge of their responsibilities.
She also described Nigerian youths as the nation’s change-makers and future leaders, noting their growing contributions to national development and their increasing participation in shaping the country’s future.
The Permanent Secretary appreciated the National Orientation Agency, Federal Ministry of Youth Development and African Young Leaders for the recognition, describing the award as both a privilege and an encouragement to continue promoting ethical leadership and dedicated service to the nation.
In his remarks, Hon. Fatoba said the award was designed to recognise individuals who exemplify ethical leadership, integrity and commitment to national values.
He urged Nigerians, particularly public servants and leaders, to uphold integrity, accountability, transparency and moral courage in the discharge of their responsibilities.
Fatoba stressed that ethical leadership remains essential to building a responsible, united and prosperous Nigeria.
(FMYD Press, 14 August, 2026)
