In recognition of his unwavering commitment to social change, Ezenwa Nwagwu, the Executive Director of the Peering Advocacy and Advancement Center in Africa (PAACA), has been honored with the prestigious Outstanding Integrity Award (OITA) 2024.
The award, presented by the Board of Trustees of the Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA) Resource Centre with the endorsement of the Gani Fawehinmi Integrity Awards (GFIIA) Committee, celebrates individuals who exemplify integrity and dedication to societal transformation.
A veteran in the struggle for liberty, justice, and human rights, Nwagwu boasts a proud legacy as a radical and fearless advocate for societal progress.
His activism began in his youth, where he rose as a student and youth leader during Nigeria’s challenging military era. Emerging as a conscientious and bold public intellectual, Nwagwu became a dependable pillar within the pro-democracy community, shaping reforms and inspiring collective action for justice and equality.
A prominent figure in the advocacy for good governance and democratic reforms in Nigeria, Nwagwu has established himself as a leading voice in electoral transparency and accountability.
As a board member of several non-profit organizations , he has been a stalwart in election observation across Nigeria and Africa, ensuring the integrity of electoral processes.
His efforts have significantly influenced the reform of Nigeria’s electoral system, enhancing public trust in democratic institutions.
Beyond his work in election observation, Nwagwu has consistently led campaigns that emphasize accountability, good governance, and the strengthening of Nigeria’s democratic processes.
His advocacy work underscores his commitment to fostering a transparent and accountable leadership culture, making him a beacon of hope in the fight for social justice and reform.
He has an enviable and proud pedigree as a radical and intrepid fighter for liberty, justice and human rights, having cut his teeth as a student and youth leader during the difficult military era, emerging as a conscientious and bold public intellectual, and a dependable pillar of the pro-democracy community.
The Outstanding Integrity Award is named in honor of the late Gani Fawehinmi, a renowned Nigerian human rights activist and legal luminary, whose legacy of fighting for justice and equity continues to inspire.
Speaking at the award ceremony, representatives from HEDA Resource Centre lauded Nwagwu’s remarkable contributions, stating that his achievements serve as a blueprint for young Nigerians aspiring to effect meaningful change.
In his acceptance speech, Nwagwu expressed deep gratitude for the honor while pledging to continue his advocacy for Nigeria’s progress
Reflecting on his journey, Nwagwu acknowledged how his upbringing profoundly shaped his values and commitment to a better Nigeria.
Born into a cosmopolitan environment, his father, a railway staff member, worked extensively in Northern Nigeria and Lagos, while his mother, a well-loved entrepreneur, fostered a home renowned for its hospitality and communal spirit.
Nwagwu noted that growing up in such a plural and inclusive setting offered him a unique perspective on diversity, unity, and service, adding that these experiences instilled in him the principles of fairness, openness, and a deep-seated desire to work for a more just and equitable society.
He said, “I am humbled and deeply honored to receive the Gani Fawehinmi Outstanding Integrity Award. This recognition is not just about me, it is a testament to the enduring hope that we must continue to do our part and ensure that Nigeria can and will achieve its potential through transparency, accountability, and genuine democratic reforms.”
