Gov. Ahmed shared the honoured with six other governors, popularly called G-7 Governors , who steered political reforms in the ruling People's Democratic Party(PDP) last year.

The other governors are Dr. Rabiu Kwankwaso (Kano),Alh. Aliyu Wamakko (Sokoto), Dr. Aliyu Babangida (Niger), Rt. Hon Rotimi Amaechi (Rivers), Alh. Sule Lamido (Jigawa) and Admiral Murtala Nyako (Adamawa).

Governors Kwankwaso and Wamakko personally collected their awards while Governors Ahmed and Amaechi were represented.

Former head of state and statesman, Gen. Yakubu Gowon (rtd) received the Leadership Person of the Year award while Gov. Emmanuel Uduaghan was Governor of the year. Minister of Agriculture, Dr. Akinwumi Adesina was honoured as Public Officer of the year.

Dignitaries at the ceremony chaired by Vanguard Publisher, Mr. Sam Amuka, included Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Aminu Tambuwwa, Gov. Raji Fasola of Lagos who delivered the conference lecture, Gov. Adams Oshiomole, Senator Bukola Saraki and APC Chieftain, Alh. Abubakar Baraje.

Leadership founder and APC presidential aspirant, Mr. Sam Nda-Isaiah, praised the honourees for their valuable contributions to the nation's development, democracy and economy.