Youth empowerment advocate, Isantim Churchill Udoh, bags Mirror Newspaper Excellence Award

Tony Okoh, Uyo

Chairman, Dakkada Skills Acquisition Center (DASAC) in Akwa Ibom State, Hon. Isantim Churchill Udoh, has been honoured with the prestigious Mirror Newspaper Excellence Award for Heroes of Our Time in recognition of his outstanding contributions to youth empowerment, skills development, and human capital advancement.

The award, instituted by The Mirror Newspaper, celebrates individuals whose leadership, dedication, and service have significantly impacted society by promoting development, innovation, and sustainable growth across various sectors.

Udoh’s recognition stems largely from his transformative leadership at the Dakkada Skills Acquisition Center (DASAC), where he has championed initiatives aimed at equipping young people with practical vocational skills, entrepreneurial knowledge, and opportunities for economic independence.

Through a range of training programmes and capacity-building initiatives, the centre has continued to empower youths across Akwa Ibom State, preparing them for productive careers and self-reliance.

Under his leadership, DASAC has become a key driver of the Dakkada philosophy, a development ideology in Akwa Ibom State that encourages hard work, productivity, and excellence among citizens. The centre’s programmes have not only enhanced employability among youths but have also contributed to the creation of small businesses and entrepreneurial ventures across communities.

Industry observers and development stakeholders have commended Udoh’s commitment to human capital development, noting that his work aligns with national efforts to reduce unemployment and strengthen economic participation among young Nigerians.

Reacting to the recognition, Udoh expressed deep appreciation to the organisers and supporters, describing the honour as a motivation to continue serving humanity.

“I am truly humbled by the continuous outpouring of appreciation and encouragement,” he said.

“It goes to confirm the timeless truth that our God sees in the secret and quiet places but rewards in the open, as once expressed by Mother Teresa.”

He also reflected on the deeper meaning of service and sacrifice, quoting Mahatma Gandhi: “True heroism comes when you do those critical-mass impactful things for people who cannot repay you, and when no one is watching.”

According to him, such reflections strengthen his resolve to keep working for the good of society, particularly for the most vulnerable.

“These words encourage me to work even harder for humanity, especially for the abandoned and forgotten, sometimes hopeless segments of our society,” Udoh added.

The formal presentation of the award is scheduled to take place at the Mirror Newspaper Excellence Awards Ceremony, which will bring together distinguished personalities from governance, business, media, and civil society.

The event is slated for April 23, 2026. at the LCCI Conference and Exhibition Centre, Alausa, Ikeja, Lagos, where several notable Nigerians will be celebrated for their outstanding contributions to national development.

By honouring individuals like Hon. Isantim Churchill Udoh, The Mirror Newspaper seeks to spotlight visionary leaders whose initiatives continue to inspire hope, empower communities, and contribute to building a more productive and inclusive society.

Udoh’s recognition as a “Hero of Our Time” further underscores the growing importance of skills development, entrepreneurship, and youth empowerment in shaping Nigeria’s future.