United Democratic Party (UDP) leader and former Vice-President of The Gambia, H.E. Lawyer Ousainou Darboe, has been awarded the 2025 Global Legacy in Statesmanship and Peace Award at a ceremony in Helsinki, Finland.
He also became the first recipient of the inaugural Oba Legacy Award.
In his acceptance speech, Darboe credited his education and sense of duty to his long public career. “I am a proud product of the University of Lagos in Nigeria,” he said, recalling being taught constitutional and international law by “one of Africa’s most distinguished jurists.” He added, “So I was made in Nigeria.”
Darboe said he accepted the award as both a Gambian and Nigerian citizen, describing leadership as a heavy responsibility built on trust. “When I completed my legal studies, a burden suddenly came on me, and that burden was accompanied with trust, the burden of hope,” he told the audience.
He recalled how ordinary Gambians placed their faith in him during difficult times. “I took up the burden of standing by them to ensure that their rights are not trampled by any authority,” he said, adding that such trust continues to guide him in public life.
The UDP leader, who is also his party’s flagbearer for the 2026 presidential election, thanked the organisers and fellow awardees, pledging to remain committed to justice, peace, and good governance.
The Global Legacy in Statesmanship and Peace Award recognises leaders who have shown exceptional dedication to democracy, human rights, and service to their people.
