President and founder of the African Children Talent Discovery Foundation, ACTDF, Engr Noah Dallaji, has been awarded with an Icon of National Development and Lifetime Achievement Award by the Arewa Youth Advocate for Good Governance (AYAGG).

Chairman of the group, Mukhtar Babale while presenting the Award in Bauchi State described Engr Noah Dallaji, a Nigerian entrepreneur, politician, and philanthropist as a remarkable figure whose contributions to humanity have left an indelible mark on Bauchi state, Nigeria, and the world at large.

“As the Founder and CEO of the African Children Talent Discovery Foundation (ACTDF), he has been instrumental in empowering and nurturing the talents of countless young individuals, fostering their personal growth and societal impact.

Born in Wurno village, Tafawa Balewa Local Government Area of Bauchi state, Eng. Noah Dallaji was raised in Jos, Nigeria, by his parents, Aliyu Dallaji and Mama Maina. His parents instilled in him a strong sense of discipline and integrity, values that would shape his approach to public service in later years.

Dallaji began his educational journey at Wurno Primary School and later pursued his secondary education in Dass, where he obtained his West African School Certificate (WASC). Eager to pursue higher education, he was admitted to the University of Maiduguri, Borno State, to study Computer Engineering, from which he graduated with honors. He also holds a Professional Certificate in Information Technology and is a member of the National Institute for Security Studies (NISS) in Bwari, Abuja.

The African Children’s Talent Discovery Foundation (ACTDF), founded by Eng. Noah Dallaji in 1996, is a testament to his deep commitment to serving humanity and addressing social challenges through youth empowerment and engagement in productive activities. ACTDF, a United Nations Grade C Non-Governmental Organization, focuses on talent discovery across diverse fields and regions. Through the foundation, numerous Nigerian and African youths have been empowered to nurture and showcase their innate abilities, resulting in significant positive impacts on education, health, skills development, and socio-economic empowerment.

ACTDF’s influence extends far and wide, with a substantial presence in Nigeria, Ghana, Liberia, Senegal, and beyond. The foundation’s efforts have led to the discovery and development of numerous prominent figures in Nigerian music, entertainment, and the Nollywood film industry. Many of these individuals, having benefited from ACTDF’s support, serve as ambassadors for the foundation, contributing to collaborative development initiatives.

In recent years, Eng. Noah Dallaji has expanded his philanthropic endeavors through The Engr. Noah Dallaji Legacy Project. This broader platform aims to actualize various programs on youth discovery and empowerment across different domains, further amplifying the impact of his initiatives.

Sports have been a key focus of Engr. Noah Dallaji’s philanthropy. Notably, he organized a two-day football talent discovery and development event in Bauchi, which attracted African soccer legends and provided numerous talented youngsters with opportunities to contribute to their personal growth and the nation as a whole. Additionally, he spearheaded a basketball tournament in Kano, where 14 exceptional talents received scholarships worth thousands of dollars each and the chance to study and harness their skills in American universities. Moreover, through collaboration with soccer superstar Asisat Oshoala, Eng. Noah Dallaji organized a Para soccer Championship and Women’s Football Tournament in Lagos, transforming the lives of physically challenged players through generous cash donations and the provision of brand-new wheelchairs.

Eng. Noah Dallaji’s dedication to empowering the youth extends to the field of entertainment. He sponsored the “Unleash Your Talent 2017” Music, Comedy, Acting, and Dance Talent Hunt in Port Harcourt, a platform that discovered and nurtured budding talents, enabling them to shine and contribute to the vibrant entertainment industry.

Education is another area that Eng. Noah Dallaji holds dear. His establishment of a Sister City relationship between Bauchi State of Nigeria and the city of Oakland in the United States stands as a testament to his commitment to education.

Through this partnership, hundreds of students have been granted full scholarships to pursue their studies in the U.S. Recently, 14 students were awarded full scholarships to study and play basketball in Canada and the U.S., providing them with valuable opportunities for academic and athletic growth.

Engr. Noah Dallaji’s relentless efforts and contributions to humanity have garnered widespread recognition and accolades. He and his foundation have received numerous awards and honors for their exceptional work. Invited to the United Nations General Assembly events since 2006, Dallaji has been organizing several side events that promote social causes and address critical global issues. In 2012, he was honored with an award at the World Corporate Cup of soccer hosted by Liverpool, recognizing his philanthropic endeavors. At the Rio+20 United Nations Conference on Sustainable Development, Dallaji’s delegation of 50 individuals showcased their unwavering support for efforts to combat climate change, leaving a lasting impression on the international stage. In 2021, he was bestowed with an honorary doctorate degree by the African Advancement Forum held in Ghana, further acknowledging his significant contributions to society.

Engr. Noah Dallaji’s involvement in causes that support the weak and vulnerable, and his commitment to providing assistance to those in need, exemplify his unwavering dedication to humanity. Through his philanthropic initiatives, he has provided scholarships to indigent yet brilliant students, conducted impactful medical outreach programs, offered mentorship and career guidance, and consistently demonstrated a steadfast commitment to serving others.

Beyond his notable accomplishments, Engr. Noah Dallaji is also a man of diverse interests and hobbies. He finds solace and inspiration through reading, writing, and traveling, allowing him to continuously broaden his horizons and seek new avenues for making a positive impact on the world.

Engr. Dallaji’s humanitarian initiatives have provided essential relief to those affected by crises, ensuring that they receive the support they need during challenging times. His efforts in advocating for improved healthcare services have brought vital medical care to marginalized communities, creating a lasting impact on the well-being of countless individuals.

The recognition Engr. Noah Dallaji has received for his meritorious service to humanity is a testament to his unwavering dedication and the tangible results he has achieved. His selfless work has inspired others to follow in his footsteps, creating a ripple effect of positive change and empowering individuals to make a difference in their own communities.

Today, as we gather to present the prestigious Sir Alh. Abubakar Tafawa Balewa Award of Meritorious Service to Humanity in honor of Engr. Noah Dallaji, we celebrate his remarkable journey and the giant milestones he has achieved. The launch of his biography serves as a testament to his exceptional contributions and provides an opportunity for others to learn from his experiences, values, and vision.

Engr. Noah Dallaji’s legacy will continue to inspire generations to come. His relentless pursuit of putting the people first and his unwavering commitment to empowering young minds will undoubtedly shape a brighter future for Bauchi state, Nigeria, and the world at large.

As we pay tribute to Engr. Dallaji’s remarkable achievements, let us not only honor him but also reaffirm our collective responsibility to uplift and empower those in need. May his story serve as a reminder that each of us has the power to make a difference, and by putting the people first, we can create a more compassionate and prosperous society for all