Former Ogun State Governor and Senator representing Ogun East, Otunba Gbenga Daniel, has received the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 2026 edition of The Sun Awards.

Daniel received the honour at the 24th edition of the awards, held on Friday, November 13, at the Expo Convention Centre, Eko Hotels and Suites, Victoria Island, Lagos.

The ceremony, themed “Nation Builders,” recognised 45 Nigerians drawn from politics, governance, public service, business, security, entertainment, sports and philanthropy.

Daniel was among five recipients of the Lifetime Achievement Award, alongside former Kano State Governor and former All Progressives Congress National Chairman, Dr Abdullahi Umar Ganduje; former Anambra State Governor, Senator Jim Nwobodo; Archbishop Margaret Benson-Idahosa; and former LASACO Assurance chairperson, Chief Mrs Teju Phillips.

The award recognises Daniel’s contributions and record of service across business, governance and legislative responsibilities.

Daniel served as governor of Ogun State from 2003 to 2011, completing two terms in office before returning to elective politics as senator representing Ogun East in 2023.

Before his entry into politics, he built a career in engineering and entrepreneurship. He is also known for his involvement in the establishment and development of businesses in the private sector.

His tenure as governor included the administration of infrastructure projects and other development initiatives across Ogun State, while his current role in the Senate involves representing Ogun East Senatorial District in the National Assembly.

The award presentation followed an earlier announcement by the management of The Sun Publishing Limited, which selected Daniel among the recipients of the Lifetime Achievement honour.

In October, while receiving his nomination letter, the senator described the recognition as a great honour and commended the newspaper for its efforts to recognise Nigerians making contributions to national development.

Other notable recipients at the 2026 ceremony included Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma, who received the Man of the Year award, while several governors, ministers, business leaders and public officials were recognised in different categories.

The event was attended by prominent personalities from across the country and broadcast live on Channels Television and Arise News.

Daniel’s latest recognition adds to the honours he has received over the years for his contributions to business, public administration and political leadership.