Similade Aderogba Receives Prestigious Thomas Sankara Prize, Urges Youth to Embrace Leadership Role in Africa’s Future
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In a powerful celebration of visionary leadership and integrity, Arc. Similade Aderogba, Chief Executive Officer of Lines and Styles Limited, has been honoured with the Thomas Sankara Leadership Prize for Integrity and Transparency, with the accompanying designation as Patriotic Amazon of the Year. The award was conferred by the Youth Partnership for Africa’s Development (YOUPAD) during an event held in Abuja, marking a moment of pride and continental recognition for young African changemakers.
Arc. Aderogba was presented with the award by the leadership of YOUPAD, a pan-African youth development organisation rooted in a historic legacy that dates back to its founding in 1925 as the West African Students Union (WASU). The ceremony drew attention to the remarkable accomplishments of a young African woman who has demonstrated resilience, patriotism, and an unwavering commitment to the development of her continent.
In her remarks, Arc. Aderogba expressed gratitude for the honour and dedicated the award to young people across Africa. She described them as the driving force of the continent and encouraged them to see themselves as capable of leading change, not only in their communities but across borders. She emphasized that true leadership is not a birthright but a product of intention, vision, and the courage to act. Her message underscored the need to create space for more young people to emerge as credible and impactful leaders.
Addressing the audience, she called on African youth to believe in themselves and in the power of collective progress. She stated that the transformation Africa needs would only come when young people are given the opportunity to lead and are inspired to use their skills for the betterment of society. She noted that recognition and support often empower individuals to deepen their contributions to nation-building.
Speaking on behalf of the awardee, His Excellency Osisiogu Osikenyi E., President of the All-Africa Students’ Union (AASU), expressed deep appreciation to YOUPAD for honouring a leader who has chosen to stay and invest in Africa, rather than seeking opportunities elsewhere. He challenged young Africans to reject the growing culture of migration, popularly known as the “Japa Syndrome,” and instead focus on rebuilding their homelands with determination and unity of purpose.
YOUPAD President Henry Nwankwo praised Aderogba’s dedication and her decision to remain on the continent, stating that only Africans can bring about the transformation Africa urgently needs. He highlighted the importance of honouring those who are living examples of courage and principled service, noting that Arc. Aderogba’s leadership style reflects the ideals of Thomas Sankara—integrity, transparency, and a passionate commitment to self-reliant development.
The event served not just as an occasion of personal recognition but as a symbol of hope for a new generation of leaders determined to shape Africa’s destiny from within. As the voices of youth leaders echoed through the gathering, so too did a clear and compelling message: Africa’s future belongs to those who dare to stay, lead, and transform.
