NIWA Lagos Manager Eng. Sarat Braimah Bags Nelson Mandela Pan African Leadership Award

Engineer Sarat Braimah, Lagos Area Manager of the National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA), has been conferred with the prestigious Nelson Mandela Pan African Leadership Award by the Stay Africa Youth Development Initiative (SAYDI), in recognition of her outstanding leadership, commitment to national service, and dedication to youth and community empowerment.
The award ceremony, held in Lagos and led by Ambassador Dominic Mensah, President of SAYDI, came as a surprise to Engineer Braimah, who described the recognition as both humbling and motivating. Ambassador Mensah explained that the Nigerian chapter of SAYDI nominated her in light of the transformational impact she has made since assuming office at NIWA’s Lagos Area Office.
“Engineer Braimah has demonstrated exceptional leadership, promoting youth empowerment, supporting government initiatives, and maintaining zero tolerance for nepotism and favoritism,” Ambassador Mensah said. “Her selfless approach, focus on teamwork, and moral leadership reflect the values Africa needs. Her career journey is an inspiration, particularly for young women seeking to make a mark in the maritime sector.”
During the ceremony, Engineer Braimah received a Certificate of Excellence and was officially inducted into the Pan African Leadership Hall of Fame, recognized as an “amazon of nation building” in Africa.
In her acceptance speech, Engineer Braimah acknowledged her team and superiors, emphasizing that the award is a shared achievement. “I dedicate this award to my colleagues in Abuja and my Lagos team, whose tireless efforts and sacrifices make it possible to deliver meaningful results. This recognition inspires me to continue advancing Nigeria’s maritime development and encouraging young Africans to commit to hard work and selfless service,” she said.
The award highlights a broader vision of nurturing Africa’s future leaders, encouraging young professionals to remain on the continent and actively contribute to its sustainable development. Through her achievements, Engineer Braimah embodies the ethos of mentorship, ethical leadership, and transformative service—setting a high standard for public service and youth engagement across Africa.
Engineer Sarat Braimah, Lagos Area Manager of NIWA, has been awarded the Nelson Mandela Pan African Leadership Award for her transformative leadership, youth empowerment initiatives, and dedication to ethical service in Nigeria’s maritime sector.