Former president, Republic of South Africa, Mr Thabo Mbeki, will receive the 2014 Obafemi Awolowo Prize for Leadership at the 28th posthumous birthday of Chief Obafemi Awolowo.

The event, on the auspices of The Obafemi Awolowo Foundation, holds on Friday at the family chapel, Ikenne residence of the Awolowos, by 9.00 a.m.

Chief Awolowo, who was born on March 6, 1909, transited to the great beyond on May 7, 1987.

Friends and political associates will join the family in celebrating the great icon of Nigeria in a communion and thanksgiving service.

Awolowo, still revered and remembered for his remarkable integrity, ardent nationalism, principled and virile opposition and dogged federalism convictions, boasts of political influence that waxes stronger, years after his demise.

The event will also have in attendance key personalities in Africa and the world at large.

•Adapted from a Nigerian Tribune report. Photo shows Mbeki.