The 18th Africa Security Watch Awards, held in Doha, Qatar, concluded on a high note, with Radio Nigeria’s Defence Correspondent, Mary Fatile earning the prestigious Excellence in Security and Defence Reporting award for West and Central Africa.
In his welcome address, Mr. Patrick Agbambu, Convener and President of the Africa Security Watch Initiative, emphasized the critical connection between national defence and socio-economic development.
He highlighted the need for a comprehensive approach to tackling insecurity, noting that as Africa continues to refine its strategies, the continent moves closer to achieving lasting peace, economic growth, and social stability.
Mr. Agbambu praised the deliberate and inclusive selection process of award nominees, which saw representation from countries such as The Gambia, Kenya, Guinea-Bissau, South Africa, Ghana, and Nigeria.
The award was presented to Mary Fatile by retired Navy Captain Mark Blaine, Director of the Security Institute for Governance and Leadership in Africa (SIGLA) at Stellenbosch University, South Africa.
The event was graced by prominent dignitaries from across Africa, including Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, Vice Admiral Awwal Zubairu Gambo, the 21st Indigenous Chief of Naval Staff of the Nigerian Navy, and Professor Henri Fouché, Vice Chairman of the Board of Trustees for the Security Watch Awards.
The ceremony highlighted Africa’s ongoing commitment to fostering peace and security through collaboration and innovation, celebrating individuals and organizations making significant contributions to these goals.
