The Nigeria Union of Pensioners (NUP), Kwara State Council, has won the integrity and accountability icon award in the North Central zone, coming first among the 10 selected states in the country.

Speaking during the presentation to the NUP Chairman, Comrade Saidu Oladimeji, and members of the executive in Ilorin, the Executive Director of the Centre for Ethics and Self Value Orientation (CESVO), Prince Salih Yakubu, said the award was to mark the 2025 United Nations International Day of Conscience.

The non-governmental organisation stated that Kwara won the award as the most ethical and responsible union based on leadership dexterity and zero tolerance to corruption.

Yakubu, who condemned corruption in almost all sectors of the nation's socio-economic sphere, applauded the state NUP for its outstanding performance and its posture regarding the welfare of pensioners in the state.

Also, the Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) in the state, Comrade Muritala Olayinka Saheed, said the award was a testimony to the good work and track record of the NUP executive, urging them to continue to do more for the welfare of their members.

In his acceptance speech after the award presentation, the NUP chairman, Comrade Oladimeji, pledged to continue to ensure prudence and sincerity in the discharge of their duties.

"I wish to declare on behalf of myself and the rest of our members, recipients of this recognition, that the gesture is accepted and pledge to hold on to the factors of this achievement for sustenance.

"No doubt, this event will remain fresh in us, and at the same time be inspirational to religiously adhere to the ethical principles of public transparency and accountability," he said.

Particularly as regards our status as senior citizens in society, expected to be exemplary and guardians in the corridor of public affairs.

"Very importantly, I will ensure that prudence and sincerity stand out as a legacy, even as the tenure of the regime under my watch winds up soon," Oladimeji said.

The award recipient also applauded Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq for his magnanimity in the way he has been handling the welfare of pensioners across the state and for being labour-friendly.