J. Archibong
Yitzhak Rabin Centre
Recipient of the International Award for Excellence from the Yitzhak Rabin Centre for African Development for her successful advocacy for women empowerment and the achievement of enduring peace in Nigeria and around the continent. This is the first such honour by the Rabin Centre since its inception.
Dame Patience Jonathan expressed deep appreciation for the honour accorded her by naming one of the school buildings after her. The recognition is coming some years after the Yitzhak Rabin Centre in Tel Aviv, Israel, conferred on her the International Award for Excellence in 2008.
“This International Award for Excellence has continued to be a constant reminder for me to uphold the high and exemplary standards for which I was considered for it.” “I am confident that the commitment to excellence which has found constant expression in my own actions…”
Nigerians in the UK Honour Patience Jonathan
When Nigerians from all over the UK came together at the Royal Garden Hotel in Kensington near London’s Hyde Park, on the occasion of an Award ceremony, the Nigerian First Lady, Dame Patience Jonathan, was described as “a person who should be honoured.” The event, which was put together by the High Commission and members of the Central Association of Nigerians in the United Kingdom (CANUK), was to celebrate the achievements of a great achiever, an ace and dynamic leader, and a trailblazer.
The President of CANUK, Bimbo Roberts Folayan, recounted how Dame Patience Jonathan touched the lives of millions of Nigerians positively. According to him, “our First Lady, as far back as ten years ago, had commenced a well-thought-out initiative that changed the lives of women and her state.” He stated further that “in the history of Nigeria, no First Lady had done so much for gender equality as much as Dame Patience Jonathan. As a result of this maternal care, Nigerians in the Diaspora had decided to recognize and honour her effort and invite her to flag off the Nigerian Carnival as Special Guest of Honour and as Mother of the Day.”
The award to Dame Patience Jonathan was presented by the former British Minister of State for Overseas Development in the Foreign and Commonwealth Office, Baroness Lynda Chalker. This is one out of several awards, honours, chieftaincy titles, and accolades bestowed on Dame Patience Jonathan.
Honour in Los Angeles
Dame Patience Jonathan received international recognition and appreciation for her humanitarian activities, even becoming the First Lady of Nigeria. While she was in office as Wife of the Vice President, Dame Patience Jonathan was honoured in Los Angeles, USA, by the African Focus Inc., an organization based in the US, with the “African Goodwill Ambassador Award.” The award is designed to celebrate individuals and organizations that have contributed significantly to the mitigation, palliation, and assuagement of the humanitarian challenges and needs of the African people.
The President of African Focus Inc., Mr. Uchenna Nworgu, on the occasion, described Dame Patience Jonathan as a friend to the less privileged, mother to the orphans, and a fountainhead of hope to the hopeless. Apparently, through her NGO, the A. Aruera Reachout Foundation has touched the lives of many less privileged, disadvantaged, and marginalized members of society.
National Honour from Cote d’Ivoire
Dame Patience Jonathan has been enjoying a soaring international profile to the utter consternation and disappointment of her critics.
The President of Cote d’Ivoire, Alassane Quattara, conferred the Ivorian national honour on President Goodluck Jonathan and his wife, Dame Patience Jonathan, for helping to bring peace to the once-troubled and strife-torn country. Côte d’Ivoire had been experiencing political and civil strife and ethnic tensions over the years. The country was unofficially partitioned into two, with the government forces in the South and rebel forces in the north facing each other in well-entrenched positions and separated only by UN UN-monitored buffer zone. The country was on the brink of catastrophe and all-out civil war after the presidential election in 2010, which was lost by the former President, Laurent Gbagbo. He refused to accept defeat and relinquish power, resulting in military conflict between the opposing forces.
Nigeria, under the dynamic leadership of President Goodluck Jonathan, was at the forefront of international efforts to bring peace to a country torn apart by violence and which had already descended into chaos and anarchy with high civilian casualties, looting, rapes, and destruction. The hostilities eventually ended with the acclaimed winner of the presidential election, Alassan Quattara, taking office.
In appreciation and recognition of the role played by the Nigerian President, Goodluck Jonathan, in bringing peace, stability, and reconciliation to Cote d’Ivoire, President Quattara conferred on Dr. Goodluck Jonathan the ‘Grand Cross of the Order of the Nation,’ the highest honour in Cote d’Ivoire. President Quattara also conferred the honour of ‘Commander of the Order of the Nation’ on the First Lady of Nigeria, Dame Patience Jonathan. President Jonathan would not have achieved so much without the support of his wife, for behind every successful man there is a woman.
‘Citizen of Distinction’ award from Canada
The humanitarian work of Dame Patience Jonathan, especially the aspect of healthcare, received recognition and appreciation in faraway Toronto, Canada, where she was honoured with the ‘Citizen of Distinction’ Award 2010 by the Management of Toronto East General Hospital. The Award was presented to her by Rob Devitt, the Chief Executive Officer of the hospital, assisted by Teresa Vasilopolous, the hospital’s founder and chair, and other senior officials.
On her part, the First Lady expressed satisfaction and appreciation of the services rendered by the hospital, especially for women and children. She informed them of the efforts of the Nigerian government to achieve the Millennium Development Goals relating to health, and looked forward to a partnership or relationship between the Toronto East General Hospital and health institutions in Nigeria.
‘Global Women Leader’ award from Paris
The humanitarian services of Dame Patience Jonathan to women, youths, and children were seen, acknowledged, and rewarded in Paris, France, when she was honoured by the Africa Youths and Women Network with the Global Women Leader for Peace Award 2013. Her efforts in the implementation and achievement of the 35 percent Affirmative Action by the administration of Dr. Goodluck Jonathan, resulting in the appointment of women into important positions, received special attention and worth of commendation and recognition.
The Nigerian First Lady expressed her appreciation to the Network for honouring her, maintaining that it will spur her to continue to empower in Nigeria and beyond. Dame Patience Jonathan informed them of the children’s hospital under construction in Abuja. It will treat children with heart diseases as part of her initiatives to enhance the lives of women and children.
International Humanitarian Award
Recipient of “Beyond the Tears” International Humanitarian Award, New York, USA, 2008, for her role in the global fight against HIV/AIDs.
Doctorate Degree in South Korea
Nigeria’s Dame Patience Jonathan was conferred with an Honorary Doctorate in Social Welfare Administration by Hansel University, South Korea. The President and Chancellor of Hansel University, Professor Sung-Hae Kim, after decorating the First Lady in her graduation attire, lauded her for working for “many good causes.”
“Dr. Patience Jonathan has been working hard for many good causes. She’s a humanitarian who has dedicated her life to working for the less privileged in Nigeria and Africa, especially for women and children. She stated further that “Her vision as the defender of the poor in Nigeria fits into Hansel University’s motto of a practicing Christian. Now she’s part of our community.” She extolled the empowerment programmes of Dame Patience Jonathan’s NGOs under which more than 4,000 women were trained in various skills to enable them to earn a living with dignity and robustness
In a congratulatory message, the co-founder of the Hansel University, Dr. Yonggi Cho, said, “I have known Dr. Patience Jonathan for her dedication to prayer and the less fortunate in her country. “I was surprised that she travelled here for the Church Growth International Conference years back to pray for Nigeria. For her selfless work, Hansel University confers this degree on her.”
In her acceptance speech, the Nigerian First Lady called for a collaborative effort to eliminate poverty and diseases across the world. She said women who are mostly affected by the twin evil of poverty and disease have pivotal roles and contributions to make to the development of Africa in particular and the world in general.
According to her, “I must stress that the fight against poverty and disease anywhere in the world is not an individual battle. It is a fight that calls for collective action and responsibility by all stakeholders… I therefore want to use this opportunity to call on well-meaning individuals, governments, international humanitarian organizations, and civil society organizations to contribute effectively and join in the fight against disease and poverty across the globe.”
The ceremony was attended by the Nigerian Ambassador to South Korea, Desmond Akawor, and his wife, who presented bouquets to the First Lady. Other dignitaries in attendance were the wives of the governors of Benue and Ebonyi, the wives of the Chief of Army Staff and the Chief of Naval Staff.
After the event, a delighted First Lady told newsmen that her contribution did not go unnoticed and promised to do more to press on the cause of women: “I’m really delighted at this honour. This is the fourth doctorate conferred on me, and I’m encouraged to do more. I also urge everyone that it is not when you have millions that you can reach out to the needy…My grandma used to say: ‘Whatever little you have, share; if you have a thousand and you can’t share, you won’t share a million if you have…’ I was just doing my own thing, not knowing that in faraway Asia everything was being noted. I want to assure you all that with God’s help, I will do more,” Dr. Patience Jonathan said.
Honorary Doctorate from Uniport
In 2011, the First Lady, Dame Patience Jonathan, was bestowed with an honorary doctorate by the University of Port Harcourt. She received the honorary Doctorate of Science Degree for advancing the cause of womanhood in Nigeria.
Honorary Doctorate from DELSU
The First Lady, Dame Patience Jonathan, has received honorary doctorate degrees from reputable institutions in recognition and appreciation of her innumerable and invaluable contributions to the advancement of humanity.
In September 2012, Dame Patience Jonathan was awarded an honorary doctorate by the Delta State University (DELSU), Abraka. She was represented by the Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Hajiya Zainab Maina, who received the award on her behalf. The award, Dame Patience Jonathan said, would motivate and strengthen her resolve and commitment to the cause of Nigerian women through her NGO and other services. As she aptly put it:
“Let me assure you that this award has further strengthened my commitment to give the Nigerian women and youths the basic knowledge through my NGO, the Women for Change and Development Initiative. Let me, on behalf of my co-awardees, thank the governor and the university authorities for the award. I promise to be a good ambassador of the University.”
Honorary Doctorate from Oduduwa
The First Lady, Dame Patience Jonathan, on Thursday rededicated herself to providing untiring service to humanity, particularly women, youths, and children. She made this declaration while receiving an honorary doctorate from Oduduwa University, Ile-Ife, Osun State. The First Lady, who was represented by the Hon. Minister of State for FCT, Oloye Olajumoke Akinjide, commended the higher institution for the honour, which she noted would inspire her to more humane service.
“This recognition also confers on me the sacred duty of even greater and untiring service to humanity. I will pursue this with total commitment and also rededicate my energy to give a voice to the voiceless and disadvantaged groups in our society and beyond.”
“This award could not have been possible without God’s mercies and the support of His Excellency, Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, President Federal Republic of Nigeria, from whom I have derived the strength to challenge myself and strive for the greatest heights in life.”
Pro-Chancellor and Fellow
In October 2008, Dame Patience Jonathan was named Pro-Chancellor of the African Business School (ABS). Additionally, she was named a Fellow of the school.
Honour from traditional Institutions
In recognition and appreciation of her service to the nation, Dame Patience Jonathan has been conferred with several chieftaincy titles. She has been conferred with the following titles:
Dame Patience Jonathan is a recipient of several chieftaincy titles.
- In 2010, she was conferred with the title of Odamibia I (Supporter of the Ladder of Success) by His Royal Highness King L. J. Ogiasa, the Obanema of Otuoke kingdom, in recognition of her tremendous contributions to the development and socio-economic transformation of their community.
- Iyom Ada di Oha mma of Ukpo by H.R.H. Igwe Robert Eze.
- Unume Wheshi Ekpeye I of Ekpeye kingdom in Rivers State by Eze Robinson O. Robinson.
- A traditional staff by the Okpahgwe Amawbia in Anambra State.
- In November 2013, the First Lady, Dame Patience Jonathan, was in Okrika, Rivers State, conferred with the title of Se Nyengibo I of Wakirike Bese by King E. D. I Obudibo, the Ikwo V of Ogoloma, amid celebrations, traditional dances, and display of masquerades on the streets.
Honour from Organizations
- The Niger Delta Youth Forum, a group that advocates for justice, equality, unity, and moral values among youths of the region, in its award of excellence to distinguished Nigerians, nominated the First Lady, Dame Patience Jonathan, for the award of Mother of Nigerian Youths.
- Another NGO, the Amalgamated Niger Delta Youths for Peace Initiative (ANDYFPI), nominated First Lady, Dame Patience Jonathan, for its National Annual Achievement Award (NAAA). The First Lady was nominated for an award of excellence as a role model.
- The Gender Equity Support Founder (GESF) honoured Dame Patience Jonathan with the Leadership and Excellence Award at its 2013 Nigerian Women Transformation Awards Conference and Exhibition (NIWTRACE), Abuja.
- The Consumer Protection Council (CPC) has conferred awards on eminent and deserving Nigerians, those who have contributed to the protection of consumers’ rights in Nigeria. The First Lady, Dame Patience Jonathan, was honoured with the Nigerian Consumer Ambassador Award (NICA).
- She is a recipient of the Award for Excellence from the Christian Women’s Fellowship for upholding dignity and positive protection of women in our generation.
- Recipient of “Defender of the Poor” Award by Society of St. Vincent de Paul, Abuja Catholic Archdiocese.
- The First Lady is a recipient of the Wind of Change Award from the South/South Women’s Organization.
- Mother of the Day at the 7th Nigeria Media Nite out awards (2013)
- NUPENG – awards and honours to eminent personalities
- Wife of Federal Capital Territory Minister, Hajia Aisha Bala Mohammed, dedicated her award to Dame Patience Jonathan, who she stated was a catalyst and an inspiration in the global campaign for support to and care of the vulnerable groups.
Youth Centre Named After First Lady
The First Lady represented different things to different people. To some, she was a beacon of hope, and to others a light at the end of the tunnel.
In recognition of her monumental activities to uplift women and children and other less privileged people across the nation, the Federal Capital City Administration named the N650 million Youth Support Centre in Abuja after the First Lady, Dame Patience Jonathan. This was announced by the Federal Capital Territory Minister, Senator Bala Mohammed.
Dedication of awards to women
She was recognized and honoured by various groups and individuals, and she dedicated the honour to Nigerian women, “past and present, who have contributed to the progress of the great women of Nigeria.” Women have played a crucial role in the evolution of modern Nigeria. According to Dame Patience Jonathan:
“In celebrating these successes, it is only proper to remember with gratitude our fore-runners who sacrificed their comfort and privileges to pave the way for today’s accomplishments. It is also an affirmation of the crucial role of women in the evolution of modern Nigeria. Their contributions to all aspects of national life will forever be written in gold.”
Induction into the Hall of Fame
Dame Patience Jonathan was inducted into the Nigerian Women’s Hall of Fame. Before her induction, she facilitated the transformation of the Women’s Hall of Fame as well as commissioned and reopened it to the public. According to the First Lady, it marked “a glorious new chapter in the records of Nigerian women.” She was inducted into the prestigious Nigerian Women’s Hall of Fame “as a woman who has contributed in her own little way to the promotion of the collective desire for our women’s empowerment and gender equality.” The First Lady has been leading a strong campaign for women’s empowerment. She also appreciates all Nigerian women and men who are gender sensitive. As she noted at her induction into the Nigerian Women’s Hall of Fame:
“Gender equity, as we have seen, is an important component of the Transformation Agenda of President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan. Let me assure you all that I consider my induction today into the Nigerian Women’s Hall of Fame as a clarion call for me to intensify my advocacy for improved welfare and opportunities for Nigerian women, children, and other vulnerable groups.
“This we shall do by the grace of God, with our priorities as the achievement of 35 percent Affirmative Action for women at all levels of government in Nigeria, as well as obtaining legislative endorsement of the affirmative action. This way, we would have guaranteed the sustainability of the gains of that process for the women and the greater good of our country.”
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