The Head of Media and Publicity at the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, Dele Oyewale, has been named the Outstanding Federal Government Spokesperson of the Year by the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations.
Oyewale, a Deputy Commander at the EFCC, emerged winner in the keenly contested category at the National Spokespersons Awards held on Wednesday.
In a statement by the organisers on Thursday, Oyewale edged out Presidential Spokesman, Bayo Onanuga and Josephine Adokuru Mudasiru of the Federal Capital Development Authority.
Chairman of the award’s Adjudication Committee, Dr Shaibu Husseini, commended Oyewale for his finesse in strategic communication, skilful media engagements, and unwavering consistency in promoting the image of the EFCC and deepening public understanding of its mandate.
“Oyewale stood out for his infusion of finesse in strategic communication, skilful workmanship, impactful media engagements and consistency in the excellent projection of the EFCC’s image and in enhancing public understanding of the Commission’s mandate and activities,” he stated.
Winners from other categories include: Olufemi Soneye (NNPCL) – Distinguished Spokesperson of the Year (Oil and Gas), Nigerian Customs Service – Best Corporate Spokesperson Team, Kashifu Inuwa (NITDA) – Most Supportive CEO to Spokespersons (Public Sector), Osagie Edwards Omoruyi (NIMASA) – Outstanding Spokesperson (Marine and Blue Economy), Femi Babafemi (NDLEA) – Outstanding Spokesperson (Security Services).
Soneye beat ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi-NPF, Igo Weli-Shell Petroleum, Olumuyiwa Akande, SIFAX Group and Osagie Edward-NIMASA to emerge Spokesperson of the Year.
In his remarks, Joshua Audu Gana, a Member of the House of Representatives, congratulated the organisers for identifying and rewarding the outstanding communicators across various sectors, lauded the winners for their professionalism and devotion and urged them to continue to strive for excellence in the roles they play.