Sydani Group 5th Anniversary Celebration: A Month of Reflection and Grand Festivities
Sydani Group, an emerging leader in the global international development and management consulting space, recently commemorated a significant milestone – our fifth-year anniversary. This milestone was celebrated with a month-long series of events, bringing together esteemed professionals, policymakers, and stakeholders from all walks of life. The celebration culminated in the prestigious Sydani Gala Night that took place on Saturday the 19th August, 2023 at the Grand Sydani Towers in the heart of Abuja. Highlights from the major activities are presented next:
Preliminary Events
The month-long celebration began with a webinar on the 4th of July 2023, titled “Strengthening Disease Surveillance and Response in Nigeria.” Notable speakers included our very own Mr. Sunday Atobatele, (Principal and Director of the Sydani Fellowship Program), Dr. Oyeladun Okunromade from the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), Mr. Evans Ondura from Palladium/Data.Fi, Dr. Abbott Samuel from AFENET, and Dr. Adejoke representing Dr. Bassey Okposen from the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA). The webinar explored valuable insights, challenges, and recommendations aimed at enhancing Nigeria’s public health system, with a keen focus on disease surveillance.
Another major highlight of the celebration was the 5th Anniversary Seminar which was held on the 8th of August 2023. The seminar explored the impact of government transitions on public health policies and programs in Nigeria. Distinguished panelists included Mr. Sidney Sampson (Global Managing Partner/CEO, Sydani Group), Dr. Martha Levitt (Chief of Party USAID-IHP), Prof Mohammed Sambo (DG NHIA), Dr. Oyebanji Filani (Ekiti State Commissioner of Health), and Anna Ekeledo (Executive Director, Afri Labs). The seminar emphasized the importance of continuity, adaptability, and innovation in shaping public health strategies.
A pivotal moment during the anniversary celebration was the constitution of the Sydani Advisory Board. This milestone event further solidified our commitment to excellence, accountability, and long-term impact. Members of the newly constituted advisory board include Dr. (Mrs.) Dere Awosika MFR. (Chairman), Dr. Charles Sokei (member and alternate Chairman), Mrs. Maryam Uwais OON. (Member), Mr. Sidney Sampson (Global Managing Partner of Sydani), and Mr. Peter Nwagbogu (Secretary to the Advisory Board). The formation of the Sydani Advisory Board signifies a new chapter in the organization’s journey, characterized by wisdom, guidance, and visionary leadership. The board is poised to play a critical role in steering Sydani toward even greater milestones in the years ahead.
Grand Finale: Sydani 5th Anniversary Gala Night
The grand finale of the Sydani 5th Anniversary celebration was an event to remember. Held on August 19, 2023, it attracted luminaries from the public health and international development sectors. The night was a blend of elegance, grandeur, and reflection.
The program for the evening featured red-carpet interviews of distinguished guests, a convivial cocktail hour, and a stirring rendition of the national anthem that heralded the beginning of the gala event proper. Despite initial interruptions by the rain, the program progressed with minimal adjustments to the schedule. Mr. Sunday Atobatele delivered a heartfelt welcome address, setting the stage for a festive and entertaining evening. This was followed by goodwill messages from esteemed guests, including Dr Bassey Okposen, Dr. Emmanuel Meribole, Dr. Patrick Nguku, and Dr. Norbert Rakiro, adding inspiration and color to the occasion.
A captivating musical interlude ushered in the keynote addresses from Dr. Nasir Mahmud, Dr. Murtala Bagana, and Prof. Yahaya Kuta which was immediately followed by a documentary video chronicling Sydani’s journey and noteworthy achievements leaving a lasting impression on the audience.
Mr. Sidney Sampson, our Global Managing Partner, delivered an inspiring founder’s address, sharing his vision and aspirations. He also introduced the Country Managing Partner for the Kenyan Country Office, Dr. Norbert Rakiro. The highlight of the evening was the “Unveiling of the Future” and the introduction of the distinguished members of the Sydani Advisory Board. The gala night featured captivating performances from very skilled traditional and contemporary dancers who showcased the rich tapestry of Nigerian culture. The ceremonial cutting of the anniversary cake marked a poignant moment of celebration, followed by a heartfelt vote of thanks by Dr. Folake Oni (Principal and Director, Business and Partnerships Development) who could not but give special recognition to the ingenious Sydani at 5 planning committee that put the month-long event together. The night concluded with staff and invited guests taking the stage to gyrate to the vibrant tunes of rich Afrobeat music, adding an exuberant note to the festivities. The Sydani 5th Anniversary Gala Night embodied the organization’s unwavering commitment to excellence, innovation, and the pursuit of meaningful impact. It was a fitting conclusion to a month-long series of activities, reflection, and celebration of Sydani’s remarkable journey.
In just five years, Sydani has not only solidified its position as a trailblazer in international development but has also demonstrated an unyielding dedication to enhancing public health, sustainability, and resilience, in Africa and on the global stage. As we embark on the next chapter of our journey, one thing remains certain: the outstanding work we do at Sydani will continue to shape the course of global development.
