Vanguard correspondent, Esther Onyegbula, alongside over 49 accomplished women from diverse sectors, has been honoured by Bukber Communications for outstanding contributions to national development, leadership, mentorship and community impact.
The award ceremony, held during the “40 Women Redefining Leadership Within and Beyond Lagos State” event, celebrated women described as trailblazers whose influence continues to shape society through service, innovation and empowerment.
Speaking at the event, Executive Director of Bukber Communications, Dr. Omotola Bukola, said the recognition was strictly merit-based and aimed at spotlighting women whose work has transformed lives and inspired hope across communities.
“In every generation, a rare group of women rises above the ordinary to shape history, not merely through positions held, but through the depth of their impact,” she said.
Bukola said the initiative was designed to celebrate women who have distinguished themselves through purposeful leadership, mentorship and service.
“This event is about impact. We are celebrating women who have made life meaningful for others and helped them rediscover purpose,” she said, adding that the award cut across age groups and sectors.
She, however, cautioned against the growing obsession with quick wealth among young people, urging them to embrace diligence, integrity and mentorship.
In her citation, Onyegbula was described as “a compelling force of clarity, integrity and purpose” in the media space, recognised for crime, human interest and metro reporting.
The organisers noted that her over a decade-long journalism career has been marked by truth-driven reporting, compassionate storytelling and advocacy for vulnerable groups.
“She goes beyond headlines, uncovering human realities and restoring dignity to overlooked voices,” the citation read.
Beyond journalism, Onyegbula was also recognised for her work in media strategy, reputation management and communications advisory for organisations and institutions.
Shortly after receiving the award, she described the honour as humbling and a strong affirmation of her career journey, noting that the most meaningful aspect was the nomination process itself.
“What makes this recognition even more special is how I was nominated,” she said.
She explained that curiosity and humility led her to contact Bukber Communications to inquire about her nomination, a decision that led to an unexpected revelation.
“Their response left me speechless,” she said.
According to her, the organisers disclosed that she was nominated by colleagues and stakeholders across multiple industries, with strong mentions in the print media category.
“They said colleagues across different industries nominated me, and in print media alone, more than 10 people mentioned my name,” she said.
She added that the revelation reinforced her belief in consistency, integrity and hard work.
“Hearing this reminded me that consistency and grace never go unnoticed,” she said.
Onyegbula dedicated the award to God, describing Him as the foundation of her journey, and also paid tribute to her husband, whom she called her “number one cheerleader,” for his unwavering support.
“To my husband, thank you for giving me the wings to fly. Your love and belief in me mean more than words can express,” she said.
She also dedicated the recognition to her children, Gideon and Gaius, appreciating their patience and understanding.
“To my adorable generals, this is for you. Thank you for sharing me with my work,” she added.
Onyegbula expressed appreciation to Bukber Communications, noting that the recognition holds deep meaning in her professional journey.
She also paid special tribute to Vanguard Media, describing the organisation as instrumental to her growth and development in journalism.
“To Vanguard Media for grooming me, nurturing my career, and consistently providing me with the platform to grow, I remain deeply grateful,” she said.
Other awardees included Professor Gbemisola Morounke Saibu, honoured for contributions to biochemistry and cancer research; Major Dorcas Onuwa Ekpenisi, recognised for leadership in military engineering; and Kehinde Charity Awujoola for youth leadership and gender advocacy.
Others were Caroline Aderonke Kuwayenu for education and personal development, Deborah Jesuyon Hunge for cultural promotion through fashion, Folashade Peter Kumayon Ajose for grassroots development, and Elizabeth Hunpe for women-focused welfare and community service.
Delivering a goodwill message on behalf of the Executive Chairman of Badagry Local Government, Babatunde Hunpe, represented by Adagba Benjamin, urged women and youths to embrace purposeful leadership and become agents of positive change.
“We must be people of impact. Wherever you find yourself, let your presence be felt,” he said.
He also encouraged women leaders to mentor younger generations and lead with humility.
The organisers further stressed the importance of leadership continuity, urging successful women to intentionally raise others.
“The next generation should not start from zero. Leadership is a relay; if the baton is not passed, the race is lost,” Bukola said.
She added: “True leadership is incomplete if it does not reproduce itself.”
