By Clem Agba

I am truly humbled and honoured to be the first African recipient of the National Award of the Order of Diplomatic Service Merit (Heungin Medal) from the President of the Republic of South Korea.

The Heungin Medal, one of South Korea’s highest civilian awards, was bestowed on me by His Excellency, Ambassador Kim Young-Chae, on behalf of the President of South Korea, in recognition of my achievements and contributions to strengthening the ties between both countries, on Thursday, in Abuja.

I am deeply grateful to the Almighty God and His Excellency, President Muhammadu Buhari, GCFR, for the opportunity to serve my country as a Federal Minister, and to His Excellency, the President of the Republic of South Korea, Yoon Suk Yeol; the Korean Ambassador to Nigeria and the Selection Committee for conferring this award on me.

I also acknowledge the invaluable support I have received from my lovely wife, Princess Catherine Agba, Members of Cabinet, Heads of Development Agencies, Permanent Secretaries, CEOs of the parastatals in the Ministry, as well as my family and friends who were present at the award ceremony.

As the Honourable Minister of State for Budget and National Planning, I have had the privilege of working on a wide range of initiatives that have allowed me to contribute to the field of diplomacy.

I am committed to serving in this field and doing my part to make a difference in the world.

@views exclusive rights: Clem Agba, Minister of State For Budget and National Planning, January 13, 2023.