A former Vice Chancellor of the University of Benin, Prof. Lilian Salami, on Wednesday bagged the Lifetime Achievement Award at the LAPO Outstanding Women Leadership Award in Benin. Salami bagged the LAOLA award based on her achievements in the education sector having lectured in various universities before serving as the VC of UNIBEN from 2019 to 2024. Also, Saidatu Bello was adjudged the winner in the professional category, the farming award went to Pastor Isoken Uyi, while Adora Ubochi bagged the award in the business category. All the recipients got N500, 000 while accomodations, transportation and feeding were also provided by the awardees. The Chairperson of the Lift Above Poverty Organisation, Osarenren Emokpae, said the programme which is the 13th edition was held to commemorate International Women’s Day, underscoring LAPO’s commitment to advancing gender equity and recognizing the remarkable contributions of women to societal progress. “The theme of this year’s award, Breaking Barriers: Accelerating Equity, resonates deeply with the global call for gender inclusiveness and fairness. Prof. Lilian Imuetinyan Salami, the immediate past Vice Chancellor of the University of Benin who is one of the awardees of this edition, and many other accomplished women who continue to inspire new generations. “Today’s event is a reminder that progress is not automatic. It requires collective action, policy reform, and continuous advocacy to dismantle the barriers that still hinder women from fully realizing their potential. We must work towards a society where women’s leadership is not the exception but the norm, where women’s achievements are celebrated, and where their contributions are recognized as integral to national prosperity. Also in her comments, President/Chief Operating Officer of LAPO, Faith Osazuwa-Ojo, said the event serves as a platform to recognise and celebrate the remarkable achievements of women who have defied limitations, shattered barriers and made significant contributions to societal progress. She said this year’s them highlights the urgent need to foster a world where gender equality is not just an ideal but a lived reality. “Equity extends beyond equal opportunities; it requires us to ensure that women receive the necessary resources, support and recognition to reach their full potential, regardless of societal constraints,” Osazuwa-Ojo stated.