Leading figures from Nigeria’s telecommunications, technology, media, and public sectors gathered at the Landmark Events Centre on Friday, October 30, 2026, as the Internet Exchange Point of Nigeria (IXPN) celebrated its 20th anniversary with its Excellence and Legacy Awards.
Among the prominent industry figures honoured were former Executive Vice Chairman of the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) and Chairman of MTN Nigeria, Dr. Ernest Ndukwe; former NASENI EVC and former Acting EVC of the NCC, Dr. Bashir Gwandu.
The awards, presented by IXPN Board Chairman Mr. Chima Onyekwere and CEO Mr. Muhammed Rudman, celebrated two decades of contributions toward establishing Nigeria’s domestic Internet infrastructure and digital economy.
Recognizing Tech Pioneers and Media Champions
Dr. Ernest Ndukwe: Honoured for his foundational leadership at the NCC, which liberalized Nigeria’s telecommunications sector, drove massive private investment, and laid the groundwork for broadband expansion.
Dr. Bashir Gwandu: Recognized for institutional contributions and policy leadership across Nigeria’s science, technology, and telecommunications frameworks.
Aaron Ukodie: Awarded for “outstanding and enduring contributions to Internet journalism,” acknowledging decades of reporting, policy analysis, and historical documentation of Nigeria’s tech evolution.
Former NCC Acting EVC Stephen Bello, former NCC Director Mrs. Mary Uduma, Mrs. Zubaida Rasheed, Alhaji Aminu Tijjani, Yen Choi, and Mr. Sunday Afolayan were also celebrated during the event.
