The Director-General of the Nigerian Institute of Medical Research, NIMR, Prof. Innocent Ujah yesterday bagged the 2014 Achiever per Excellence Award of the National Association of Nigerian Students, NANS.

Ujah-2The Award which was presented to him in Lagos by members of NANS from various states of the country was given to him based on his outstanding performance since he took over the mantle of leadership at the Institute.

Presenting the award on behalf of the National President of the association, Mr. Edwin Ninalowo Saheed who led the team of students to NIMR said the association recognised NIMR’s contribution in the war against Ebola Virus Disease imported into to the country by the Late American- Liberian, Patrick Sawyer.

According to Saheed, NANS decided to honour Prof. Ujah with a Five Star General of the association because they see the best of Nigerian students in him.

“This award is to spur you to do more and ensure that the health sector through research is well commendable and at par with the global standard.   We automatically induct you to NANS Hall of Fame. NANS Achiever per Excellence Award is aimed at identifying with the truth and light.”

Responding, the Director General, Prof Innocent Ujah admonished the students that Unionism should not deter them from achieving their gaols in life said: “hard work does not kill.”

He recalled that the containment of Ebola for the first time in history brought good tidings to Nigeria. According to him, “Containment of Ebola is a manifestation that with political will, Nigeria will do everything

He stressed the need for political will and support, adding that many good dreams are dead today because of lack of support.   Describing the award as next to National Award, Ujah called for more funding for research in the country as there cannot be any meaningful development without research.