An award scheme called the Ibrahim prize for Achievement in African Leadership founded by Telecom tycoon; Mo Ibrahim has rewarded the former President of Niger, Mahamadou Issoufo for his exhibition of excellence in leadership; after inheriting one of the world’s poorest economies.
The Mo Ibrahim Foundation has bestowed upon me this honour. But, in fact, the Ibrahim Prize honours all #Niger-ien people. On their behalf and my own, thank you. #MIFPrize
1/2— Issoufou Mahamadou (@IssoufouMhm) March 8, 2021
The scheme which was purposely established among other things to recognize and celebrate former African executive leaders who; under challenging circumstances developed their countries and strengthened democracy and human right; settled on Issoufou for his contribution towards efforts to curb terrorism in the region and also for the massive economic progress he presided over in the country.
Former president of Botswana, Festus Mogae who chairs the prize committee said in eulogy that; “in the face of the most severe political and economic issues, including violent extremism and increasing desertification, President Mahamadou Issoufou has led his people on a path of progress.”
The Republic of the Niger, is a landlocked country in West Africa named after the Niger River. Niger is bordered by Libya to the northeast, Chad to the east, Nigeria to the south; Benin and Burkina Faso to the southwest, Mali to the west, and Algeria to the northwest.
Over 80% of its land area lies in the Sahara Desert. The country’s predominantly Muslim population of about 22 million; live mostly in clusters in the far south and west of the country. The capital and largest city is Niamey, located in Niger’s southwest corner.
