There is a wave of excitement and pride sweeping through the Nigerian diaspora community, particularly among members of Eko Club International, following the inclusion of three of its distinguished members in President Bola Tinubu’s Democracy Day National Honours list.
EpeInsights reports that among the 32 honourees announced by the presidency are Dr. Tunji Alausa, Prof. Shafideen Amuwo, and Dr. Kayode Shonoiki all long-time members of the respected diaspora association.
The trio received the prestigious Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON) honour for their contributions to Nigeria’s democratic journey and national development.
Their recognition has sparked celebrations not only within Eko Club International but also among Nigerians in the diaspora who see the awards as a testament to the value of civic service beyond the country’s borders.
The nominations of Dr. Tunji Alausa, Prof. Shafideen Amuwo, and Dr. Kayode Shonoiki for this prestigious award are rooted not only in their professional excellence but also in their deep-seated philanthropic commitments and unwavering contributions to the advancement of emerging democracies.
A Legacy of Service Beyond Borders
Dr. Tunji Alausa, a U.S.-based nephrologist and current Minister of State for Health, is widely known for his advocacy on healthcare reforms and diaspora engagement.
His longstanding affiliation with Eko Club International has seen him lead multiple medical missions, providing life-saving care to underserved communities in Lagos and beyond.
Alausa, a renowned nephrologist and public health advocate, embodies a rare blend of medical expertise and humanitarian concern.
Beyond his clinical accomplishments, Dr. Alausa has made notable philanthropic investments in healthcare access, particularly for underserved communities in Nigeria and the diaspora.
His initiatives focus on healthcare equity, medical missions and mentorship programs for young health professionals.
Equally commendable is his policy advocacy, where he champions reforms that align with democratic ideals transparency, accountability and improved governance in the health sector.
Prof. Shafideen Amuwo, a political scientist and professor, has been a consistent voice for good governance, equity, and federalism in Nigeria.
Amuwo has used both academic and civic platforms to champion restructuring and democratic reform. Within Eko Club International, he has mentored several younger Nigerians pursuing academic careers.
Amuwo who is based in Chicago is celebrated for his intellectual contributions to political science and governance.
A respected academic, Prof. Amuwo has used his scholarly work to challenge authoritarian tendencies and to promote democratic values, human rights and participatory governance across Africa.
His philanthropic efforts are woven through educational empowerment, supporting grassroots initiatives that nurture civic consciousness and bolstering academic institutions through capacity-building and knowledge-sharing.
His life’s work is a testament to the power of ideas in shaping emerging democracies.
Dr. Kayode Shonoiki, a development consultant and philanthropist, has used his platform within Eko Club to push for education and youth empowerment.
From scholarships to vocational training sponsorships, Shonoiki has remained committed to the socio-economic growth of Lagos communities, particularly in the Eti-Osa axis.
With a distinguished background in corporate and development sectors, Dr. Shonoiki has consistently prioritized community-centered philanthropy and democratic engagement.
His contributions span across youth development, economic empowerment, and leadership training.
Dr. Shonoiki is known for supporting local governance initiatives and backing democratic processes that uplift marginalized voices.
His philanthropic engagements are anchored in fostering inclusive growth and building the foundations of accountable, people-focused leadership.
A Common Thread: Philanthropy and Democracy
These three exceptional Nigerians, through diverse paths, exemplify how philanthropy and democratic advancement are not parallel pursuits but intersecting forces for societal transformation. Their nominations serve as a recognition of their holistic leadership—as givers, thinkers and advocates of a better democratic future.
Calls for Broader Recognition
While the club celebrates its own, some members of the public have also raised concerns about the criteria used for the selection.
They urged the Federal Government to cast the net wider to capture others who have made critical contributions, especially during the pro-democracy struggle of the 1990s.
Strengthening Diaspora Ties
For many observers, the inclusion of Eko Club International members in the national honours list underscores the growing acknowledgment of the Nigerian diaspora as active stakeholders in national development.
As Nigeria continues to define and honour the true heroes of its democracy, the recognition of diaspora voices especially those affiliated with organised platforms like Eko Club International marks a significant shift in national appreciation for global Nigerian citizens.
