The Senior Special Assistant to President Bola Tinubu on Community Engagement for the North Central zone, Abiodun Essiet, has emerged as the Senior Special Assistant of the Year in the category of Public Engagement and Delivery at the 2026 edition of the 100 Most Influential Progressives Award.President History Books
The award was presented by The Progressives Magazine in recognition of her role in promoting grassroots participation, community development and inclusive governance across the North Central region.
Essiet was honoured during a ceremony attended by political stakeholders, government officials, party loyalists and members of the progressive movement from different parts of the country.Politics
According to the organisers, the recognition followed her contributions to strengthening the relationship between government institutions and local communities through sustained engagement and peacebuilding initiatives.
Since her appointment by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Essiet has led several outreach programmes focused on community inclusion, conflict resolution, youth participation and support for vulnerable groups within the North Central region.President History Books
The organisers said her efforts aligned with the Renewed Hope agenda of the Tinubu administration, particularly in the area of public service delivery and citizen engagement.
Supporters and political associates who attended the event described the award as a reflection of her growing influence in community-based governance and her commitment to bridging the gap between the federal government and grassroots populations.Politics
Some attendees also commended her approach to peacebuilding, especially in communities affected by insecurity and social tensions within the region.
The 100 Most Influential Progressives Award is an annual platform organised to recognise individuals considered to have made significant contributions in governance, leadership, policy implementation and public service.