The Director General of the National Social Security and Insurance Trust, Mohamed Fuaad Daboh, has been awarded the prestigious global award as the Most Impactful Personality in Public Insurance and Social Security in Africa by The Bold Solution under the auspices of the African Development Conference.
The event, which took place at the Kempinski hotel during the 5th edition of the African Public Service Optimum Awards in Accra, Ghana, on Thursday, 18th December 2025, was attended by a galaxy of high-profile personalities including ambassadors and senior Ghanaian government officials.
Prior to the awards, this Sierra Leonean technocrat was honourably tasked to be part of a crucial conversation that will shape the destiny of Africa on the theme: BUILDING AFRICA THROUGH LEADERSHIP AND DEVELOPMENT.
In his acceptance statement, the NASSIT Director General expressed his delight for the award which, he stated, was a testament to hard work and commitment towards improving the lives of the people of Sierra Leone through the NASSIT social insurance scheme. He paid tribute to the Board, Management and staff of the Trust for their support throughout the years.
“This award does not belong to me only; it belongs to my team at NASSIT and the President, His Excellency Rtd, Brigadier General Julius Maada Bio, and the people of Sierra Leone,” Mr Daboh emphasised.
The NASSIT DG went on to thank the organisers, The Bold Solution, for their kind consideration, saying this is the second time they have recognised their good work back home and it is a motivation enough to continue doing more.
He informed his audience that NASSIT is in a desperate move to extend Social Security to the Informal Sector which constitutes 80% of the country’s population and called on all African countries to pay heed to the service of their country with diligence.
Leading the conversation on the panel of experts, Mr Daboh opined that leadership is central to transforming potential into reality. He spoke on three critical aspects of leadership: visionary leadership, innovative leadership, and ethical leadership and governance.
According to the NASSIT Director General, Africa stands at a critical juncture where the promise of a prosperous future hinges on strong leadership and efficient and effective institutions that are deeply rooted in service, transparency, accountability, and the right mindset.
He went on to state that in an industry like Social Security, the continent needs leaders who see social security as a strategic investment, not merely an administrative obligation. Leaders who ask difficult but necessary questions: How do we extend coverage to the informal sector, which accounts for over 80% of African households? How do we leverage social security funds to drive national development?
According to the Director General, visionary leadership means building systems today that are resilient and inclusive enough to sustain the Africa we aspire to see tomorrow.
Additionally, Mr Daboh went on, Africa still has boundless potential and ethical leadership and good governance are crucial in unlocking that potential. He emphasized that trust is the currency of any administration.
In Social Security, for instance, when funds are mismanaged or diverted, public trust evaporates, participation declines, and the system collapses. Leaders must demonstrate transparency, accountability, and evidence-based decision-making, he said.
Amidst thunderous applause from the over 250 participants, delegates, and Government officials, the Director General mesmerized his audience by highlighting Social Security as a pillar of Development.
According to him, Social Security plays a critical role in driving social and economic development. It mobilizes domestic capital, creates stability, and empowers youth—the continent’s greatest asset. By providing predictable support for families, social protection reduces poverty and vulnerability, giving workers confidence to invest in their businesses, skills, and communities.
Adding that for young people, social security can support vocational training, entrepreneurship, and even micro-pension schemes, giving them a stake in Africa’s future.
Concluding, Mr Daboh intimated that social security is not a burden—it is one of Africa’s most powerful tools for transformation. If we lead with integrity, innovate with purpose, and design inclusive systems, we can create an Africa where no one is left behind—a continent where social security is not a privilege, but a right, he noted.
On behalf of the President and people of Sierra Leone, the NASSIT strong man pledged Sierra Leone’s commitment to continental unity, collaboration, and vibrant leadership in shaping the future of their shared destiny.
The Director General was accompanied by Mrs Zorah Efua Beryl Anthony, a Trustee representing the Sierra Leone Employers Federation on the NASSIT Board, Victor Immanuel Samai, Executive Assistant to the Director General, and Mohamed Bangalie, Head of Public Affairs and Event Management.
