Sanwo-Olu Hosts Prince Edward at Nigerian Excellence Evening, Celebrates Lagos Youth at Gold Award Presentation

Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu hosted The Duke of Edinburgh, Prince Edward Anthony Richard Louis, at the Nigerian Excellence Evening and Gold Award Presentation held yesterday, celebrating young Lagosians who completed the prestigious Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award at Gold level.

The Gold Award program is a structured youth development initiative designed to foster resilience, confidence, creativity, and a strong sense of civic responsibility through community service, skill development, physical recreation, and adventurous challenges. Participants are required to demonstrate sustained effort and personal growth across these areas to achieve the award.

During the ceremony, Governor Sanwo-Olu praised the awardees for their dedication and discipline, describing the program as life-shaping and transformative. He noted that the achievements of these young Lagosians reflect the impact of determination, creativity, and a willingness to learn.

“The award instils in participants a profound commitment to their communities and equips them with the skills necessary to contribute meaningfully to society,” the Governor said.

The Governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to providing platforms that empower young people to learn, lead, innovate, and thrive. He emphasized that Lagos State will continue to champion initiatives that nurture future leaders capable of shaping the next chapter of the state’s growth and progress.

The event also highlighted the state government’s broader focus on youth development, underscoring the importance of structured programs that encourage excellence, personal growth, and leadership among the younger generation.

Prince Edward’s presence underscored the international recognition of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award program and its global standards in developing young leaders. The event provided an opportunity for participants to showcase the outcomes of their dedication, including community service projects, skill development achievements, and adventurous undertakings.

As the evening concluded, the awardees were celebrated for completing the rigorous requirements of the Gold Award, marking a milestone in their personal and leadership journeys, and reinforcing Lagos State’s commitment to fostering talent, ambition, and civic responsibility among its youth.