The Executive Director of Pipeline Infrastructure Nigeria Limited (PINL), Osahon Okunbo, has been awarded the Young Entrepreneur of the Year 2025 by Vanguard Newspapers. The honor recognizes his significant contributions across multiple sectors of the Nigerian economy.
Award Details
The award, approved by Vanguard’s Board of Editors, is part of the annual Vanguard Personality of the Year Awards. It was presented on April 24, 2026, at the Convention Centre of Eko Hotels and Suites in Lagos.
According to the organizers, the recognition highlights Okunbo’s investments and leadership in hospitality, oil and gas, agriculture, the arts, and the built environment. These sectors are considered vital to Nigeria’s economic development.
Vanguard noted that the award also reflects his role in promoting enterprise and innovation across the country.
Presentation and Reaction
The honor was presented by former Ogun State Governor, Olusegun Osoba. Speaking after receiving the award, Okunbo described the recognition as a “full circle moment,” noting that his late father, Captain Idahosa Wells Okunbo, had previously received a similar honor from the organization. He said his father’s influence continues to shape his approach to business and cultural development.
Also speaking at the event, the Chief Executive Officer of Aruwa Capital Management, Adesuwa Rhodes Okunbo, said the recognition reflects a longstanding commitment to enterprise within the family.
Philanthropy and Cultural Work
Okunbo is the founder of The Osahon Okunbo Foundation, which supports African arts and creative expression through partnerships with artists and cultural institutions. He also serves on the board of the National Theatre Lagos, now known as the Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and the Creative Arts, contributing to efforts aimed at revitalizing cultural infrastructure.
Other Honorees
Other recipients at the event included the Governor of Zamfara State, Dauda Lawal; Governor Agbu Kefas; Governor Bassey Otu; Governor Mai Mala Buni; and former Governor Jim Nwobodo. Also recognized were the Minister of Aviation, Festus Keyamo; Hassan Kukah; and businessman Sayyu Dantata, among others.
