NAFCA honours Vice-President Isatou Njie-Saidy … Floyd Mayweather Snr too

Highly rated movie awards, Nollywood and African Film Critics Awards (NAFCA), has listed Dr Isatou Njie-Saidy, Vice-President of Gambia, and Floyd Maywaether Snr, father of flamboyant boxer, Floyd Mayweather Jnr, among those who will receive its prestigious NAFCA honorary awards when NAFCA holds in September in America. According to NAFCA organizers, Njie-Saidy is being recognized for inspiring women in Africa through her numerous achievements. Citing Njie-Saidy, the organizers said, “As well as being Vice-President, Gambia, she’s also Secretary of State for Women's Affairs. From September 1983 to December 1989, she was Deputy Executive Secretary of the Women's Bureau, the executive decision-making body of the National Women's Council. Later, under President Yahya Jammeh, she became Minister of Health, Social Welfare and Women's Affairs in July 1996, and then Vice President and Secretary of State for Health, Social Welfare and Women's Affairs on 20 March 1997. “She has spoken and written extensively about women's issues in the Gambia. She obtained an MSc in Economics (Social and Economic Development) at the University of Swansea. She is the first Gambian woman to hold the position of Vice-President and one of the first women in West African politics to reach this senior position.” As for Mayweather Snr, the organizers said he was to be recognized for his contribution to entertainment. Citing him, they said, “He’s an American boxing trainer and a welterweight contender during the 80s. He’s known for his defensive ability and overall knowledge of boxing strategy. He is the father and trainer of five-division boxing champion Floyd Mayweather Jnr. He is also credited for teaching his son the defensive skills that made him a champion. “He’s also known for his outspokenness. He frequently recites poetry about his opponent and still does today for his fighter's opponent. Some refer to him as the ‘Poet Laureate of Boxing.’ “ In his acceptance letter the legendary boxer and boxing trainer wrote: “Your letter informing me that I will receive the prestigious Special NAFCA Lifetime Achievement Award in Entertainment has simply overwhelmed me. It is with deep gratitude that I accept the honour. I will be present at the award with some family members. I am very grateful for the honour and it is encouraging. I am also very appreciative of those who recommended me for this prestigious award, and for the time and effort you have put into this yearly event process. I will of course continue to do my very best and would also be willing to encourage others to get involved and help this award grow. Again, I am sincerely honored by this recognition and look forward to September.”