Khadija Kuburat Ibrahim Honoured for Exemplary Leadership and Integrity at National Summit in Abuja

By Genesis Ogiri | Newsway Media

ABUJA — With the poise of royalty and the aura of a woman born to lead, Dr. (Engr.) Khadija Kuburat Ibrahim, the visionary Chief Executive Officer of KUBIB Food and Spices, stood radiant at the National Integrity, Leadership and Development Summit and Awards 2025, where she was honoured with the Exemplary and Integrity Award by the Centre for Ethical Conduct, Orientation and Empowerment — in recognition of her distinguished impact, moral excellence, and service to humanity.

The colourful ceremony, held at the illustrious Nicon Luxury Hotel, Abuja, brought together an impressive convergence of policymakers, diplomats, business icons, and thought leaders from across Nigeria. It was an evening that celebrated integrity, leadership, and institutional excellence, reflecting the summit’s resonant theme — “From Potential to Prosperity: Powering National Development through Ethical Leadership and Institutional Excellence.”

For many present, Dr. Khadija’s moment of honour was more than a personal triumph; it was a reflection of what ethical leadership, visionary enterprise, and grace under pressure can achieve when guided by purpose and principle.

Addressing journalists moments after receiving the award, Dr. (Engr.) Khadija Ibrahim spoke with deep humility and conviction about the value of honesty and moral leadership in national development.

 “Integrity remains the foundation of true leadership,” she said with a calm, queenly smile. “As leaders, whether in business or governance, we must uphold truth, fairness, and service. I see this award not as a personal reward but as a call to continue serving with sincerity, inspiring others to lead with conscience and compassion. Ethical leadership is not a choice — it is the pathway to national transformation.”

Her words resonated with profound sincerity, drawing applause from dignitaries and journalists alike, as her composure and eloquence reflected the grace of a woman whose influence transcends profession into purpose.

Born in Ilorin, Kwara State, on October 17, 1982, Dr. Khadija Kuburat Ibrahim hails from the esteemed Ileko family of Idi-Ape, a lineage known for its moral strength and entrepreneurial heritage. She obtained her Bachelor’s Degree in Civil and Water Resources Engineering from the University of Maiduguri, Borno State, and is a certified member of both the Nigerian Society of Engineers (NSE) and the Council for the Regulation of Engineering in Nigeria (COREN).

Her academic and professional journey reflects the discipline of an engineer and the innovation of an entrepreneur. Over the years, she has pursued professional certifications from some of the world’s most prestigious institutions — including the University of California, University of Virginia, Duke University, Rice University, and the University of Minnesota (USA) — in areas such as Project Management, Business Model Innovation, Entrepreneurship, and Human Resources.

Currently, she is advancing her global perspective as an MBA candidate at the Business School of the Netherlands, further expanding her influence as a 21st-century African business leader.

As CEO of KUBIB Food and Spices, Dr. Khadija has transformed a modest enterprise into a nationally celebrated brand that champions local content, quality production, and women empowerment. Her leadership has positioned KUBIB as a model of ethical entrepreneurship, promoting Nigerian-made products across borders and contributing to economic sustainability.

Through KUBIB, she continues to empower women, support farmers, and mentor young entrepreneurs, proving that business can be both profitable and purposeful when driven by integrity. Her business partnership with Bilaad Realty, a global real estate powerhouse, further exemplifies her strategic vision and versatility as a leader.

Popularly called “Alhaja,” Dr. Khadija is a devout Muslim and humanitarian who carries her faith with elegance and humility. Her spiritual conviction and compassion for humanity inspire her philanthropic outreach across communities — uplifting lives, especially among women and children.

Her global recognition includes an Honorary Doctorate in Entrepreneurship and Social Development from Iheris University, Lome, Togo, and an Honorary Fellowship from Girne American University, Cyprus, affirming her international impact in business leadership and social development.

As the golden lights of the Nicon Luxury ballroom glowed upon her, Dr. Khadija’s calm dignity and radiant confidence symbolized a new era of African womanhood — one defined not by privilege, but by purpose, perseverance, and principle.

Today, Dr. (Engr.) Khadija Kuburat Ibrahim stands as one of Nigeria’s most inspiring women — an emblem of ethical leadership and a beacon of excellence. Her life’s story proves that success anchored on integrity not only endures but uplifts others along its path.

Her journey — from Ilorin to the international stage — remains a testament that when vision meets virtue, and when leadership is guided by love for humanity, greatness becomes inevitable.

Indeed, her crown is not of gold, but of grace, grit, and godly values — the true jewels of a queen whose reign is defined by impact, not power.