Her Excellency, Ambassador Dr. (Mrs.) Zainab Daniel Akpan, today marked her birthday in a remarkable celebration that also highlighted her recent international recognitions and awards received in the United States of America. Her recognitions in the U.S. stand as a testament to her unwavering dedication to promoting peace, global cooperation, and the empowerment of women across communities.
Speaking during a media parley held on Saturday, October 25, 2025, in Abuja, Ambassador Akpan expressed profound gratitude to God, her family, and the leadership of the Nigerian Navy for their unwavering support throughout her journey of service.
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In her remarks, Ambassador Akpan expressed deep gratitude to God, her family, and her supporters for their continuous encouragement and prayers. She reaffirmed her steadfast commitment to peacebuilding, humanitarian service, and initiatives that uplift women and children, especially in underprivileged societies.
The envoy emphasized that the recognitions only strengthen her resolve to continue serving humanity and to use her influence to foster understanding, unity, and sustainable development both within Nigeria and beyond.
Dr. Akpan, who currently serves as the Vice President of the Naval Officers’ Wives Association (NOWA), disclosed that she received multiple international honours from the Institute of Public Policy and Diplomacy Research (IPPDR) in New York. These include:
- Honorary Doctorate Award as a Global Peace Ambassador,
- Award of Excellence and Certification as an International Peace Practitioner and Consultant, and
- Recognition on Human Trafficking Awareness and Training, in acknowledgment of her advocacy for justice and protection of vulnerable women and children.
In addition, she was conferred with the United Nations Global Leadership Award for her lifelong commitment to transformational leadership and global service. Back in Nigeria, she was also honoured by the Drum Majors for Peace at their 6th National Entertainment and Peace Summit held in Abuja.
“These recognitions are both humbling and inspiring,” she stated. “They remind me that service to humanity truly transcends boundaries and reaffirm my commitment to promoting peace, equity, and empowerment—particularly for women and youth across Africa and the world.”
Reflecting on her service as NOWA National Vice President, Dr. Akpan noted that the role has provided her with invaluable real-life experience in leadership, empathy, and teamwork. She emphasized that leadership should be measured by “the lives we touch and transform,” rather than by status or title.
She also announced plans for a Special Thanksgiving and Reception later in the evening to celebrate the recognitions and appreciate God, family, friends, and partners for their support.
Ambassador Akpan concluded by dedicating the awards to all women striving for excellence, her family, and everyone committed to service and compassion. She thanked members of the media for their role in promoting positive change and pledged continued collaboration in advancing peace and inclusivity.
“These honours are not personal achievements,” she said. “They are a call to greater responsibility — to do more for humanity, to lift others, and to make the world a better place.”
Her husband, Rear Admiral Daniel Akpan in his goodwil messages eulogises his wife for being a good ambassador for peace home and abroad.
He presented a special long song for her. The event was attended by dignitaries, friends, and well-wishers who came together to honor her outstanding contributions to diplomacy, humanitarian service, and women’s advancement.