Abuja: The Presidential Enabling Business Environment Council (PEBEC) has recognized the Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) as the leading government agency for 2025, with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) following closely.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the announcement was made during PEBEC’s Awards and Gala Night, which took place at the Banquet Hall, State House, Abuja.
The award ceremony is aimed at celebrating exceptional public service delivery, reform excellence, and collaborative efforts towards enhancing Nigeria’s business environment. The Nigeria Customs Service, Nigerian Communication Commission (NCC), and the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) also featured in the list of the Top Five MDAs.
Other notable awards included the Plaque of Cooperation, awarded to NAFDAC, Nigerian Export Processing Zones Authority (NEPZA), and the Nigeria Agricultural Quarantine Service (NQS). Benue State received the Plaque of Collaboration Award, while Lagos State took the top spot for the State Business Excellence Award, followed by Kaduna and Oyo States.
The Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA) was honored with the Business Advocacy and Partnership Award, and the Development Partnership for Business Enablement Award was granted to the European Union. Individual accolades were also presented, including the Leadership in Action Award to Dr. Abubakar Dantsoho, Managing Director of NPA, and the Legislative Trailblazer Award to Rep. Ahmed Lere, Chairman of the House Committee on Commerce.
Ibrahim Hadejia, Deputy Chief of Staff to the President (Office of the Vice President), received the Business Enablement Award. Mrs. Zahrah Mustapha-Audu, Director-General of PEBEC, highlighted the event’s purpose to honor outstanding institutions and individuals while reflecting on the achievements made in improving Nigeria’s business landscape.
Vice President of Nigeria and Chairman of PEBEC, Sen. Kashim Shettima, emphasized the council’s commitment to fostering a business environment synonymous with excellence. He commended the award recipients for their dedication to reform and excellence in public service, which aligns with Nigeria’s economic aspirations and national growth objectives.