Ambassador Martins Acha Receives U.S. President’s Lifetime Achievement Award

Folalumi Alaran in Abuja

Ambassador Martins Acha, the co-founder and president of the Martins & Eno Acha Foundation, has been honored with the prestigious President’s Lifetime Achievement Award, the highest civilian recognition for volunteer service in the United States. The award, signed by U.S. President Joe Biden, recognizes Ambassador Acha’s decades-long commitment to humanitarian work and transformative leadership in both the United States and Nigeria.

The award celebrates individuals who have dedicated over 4,000 hours of service to their communities, exemplifying a lifelong spirit of volunteerism and civic responsibility. Ambassador Acha’s tireless efforts in promoting education, healthcare, economic empowerment, and youth development through his foundation earned him a place among the select group of global changemakers to receive this honor.

“This honor is not just about me, it belongs to every volunteer, every advocate, and every voice that has joined hands to make a difference,” Ambassador Acha said in his acceptance speech. “My wife and I remain committed to building bridges of hope and creating opportunities for generations to come.”

Through the Martins & Eno Acha Foundation, the Nigerian-born philanthropist has led numerous community development initiatives, particularly targeting underserved populations. His work has spanned continents—impacting lives in vulnerable communities across Nigeria and in American cities—where he has championed access to basic healthcare, quality education, and sustainable economic programs.

“Ambassador Acha’s unwavering commitment to the welfare of others is a shining example of what it means to live a life of service,” said a representative from the White House Service Awards Committee. “His leadership has inspired thousands and his impact continues to ripple across continents.”

Reacting to the award, many in both Nigeria and the United States praised Acha’s selfless dedication. Dr. Eno Acha, his wife and foundation co-founder, described the recognition as “a validation of years of sacrifice, love, and belief in the power of community.”

“Martins has always said that leadership is not about titles, but about impact,” she said. “This award reaffirms his belief that service is the highest calling.”

As he joins the distinguished ranks of honorees such as civil rights leaders, educators, and philanthropists, Ambassador Acha reaffirmed his mission to “serve humanity with purpose, compassion, and action.”

“This moment is a reminder that when we commit ourselves to lifting others, we all rise,” he said.

Ambassador Acha’s recognition serves as a beacon of hope and a powerful reminder of the impact one individual can have through a life devoted to service.