Although this recognition was conferred in January 2026, I feel compelled to acknowledge and celebrate the remarkable achievement of my mentor, Ahmed Mohammed Ahmed, who was among 25 eminent Nigerians honoured with the Distinguished Service Award by the Community Health Research Initiative during its 25th anniversary celebration held in Kano.
The award recognised Ahmed’s exceptional contributions to Nigeria’s health sector, particularly in health communication, family health, and maternal and child wellbeing. I had the privilege of meeting and working with him while serving as an Information Officer at the Bauchi State Primary Health Care Development Board, where he played a significant role in strengthening my capacity in development communication, especially within the health sector.
Over the years, Ahmed has built an outstanding career across both government and development organisations, serving in key positions with CompAss, TSHIP, E4D, Society for Family Health, and UNICEF-supported programmes. He rose to the position of Director in the Bauchi State Ministry of Tourism and Culture before his appointment in April 2021 as Chief Executive Officer and Artistic Director of the National Troupe of Nigeria. Under his leadership, the organisation has witnessed renewed visibility and relevance, including the successful revival of major stage productions.
A UNICEF-trained Theatre for Development practitioner and holder of a Master’s degree in Theatre Arts from the University of Jos, Ahmed remains widely respected for deploying creative communication strategies to promote behavioural change and improve health and development outcomes, particularly for women and children.
Though my tribute comes several months after the award was presented, the significance of this recognition remains undiminished. It is a fitting acknowledgment of a lifetime dedicated to development communication, public health advocacy, culture, and national service.
Congratulations, Ahmed Mohammed Ahmed, on this well-deserved honour.
Your contributions continue to inspire many of us who have had the privilege of learning from and working with you.
Suleiman Alhassan Dambam
Director Press, Government House, Bauchi State.
