1 Introduction
The Le Bon Prize is a global award established by the National Association of Seadogs (Pyrates Confraternity) to recognise, honour and celebrate individuals and organisations that make outstanding contributions in the service of humanity. It seeks to acknowledge individuals or organisations whose activities are adjudged to have a transformative impact on society. The Prize would reflect dedication, innovation, and excellence in the service of others. The award aims to celebrate efforts that significantly improve the quality of life, promote human dignity, and contribute to the betterment of humanity. The Prize seeks to inspire and encourage continued commitment to the service of humanity. Search for the work of excellence in contribution to humanity would be global and would cover all of humanity irrespective of race, gender or creed of the honouree and the target beneficiaries of the impact.
2. The Structural Organs
The Le Bon Prize Foundation is an NGO registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission in Nigeria. The Foundation currently has a 12-member Board of Trustees comprising eminent individuals who have been leaders of the National Association of Seadogs, successful in their fields, have had outstanding careers, and have in themselves contributed significantly towards the positive transformation of people, communities and society at large. The Board also includes two Ex-Officio members made up of the current Capn, National Association of Seadogs and the Chairman of the OmbudsPyrates team.
Next is the seven-member Advisory Council which comprises eminent and outstanding personalities with global acclaim, six of whom have no relationship whatsoever with the National Association of Seadogs. The main function of this Council is to advise the Foundation as may be appropriate to ensure a global reach, prominence, recognition and sustainability.
Next is the nine-member Award Selection Committee, four of whom are nominated from within the National Association of Seadogs. The remaining five members are individuals without any direct relationship with the Association. The Committee would carry out the task of receiving, reviewing and selecting nominations for the award on a biennial basis in the first instance. In due course, the award is expected to become annual.
The Foundation has a Secretariat headed by the Executive Secretary who will also serve as the Secretary to the Advisory Council and the Award Selection Committee.
The Advisory Council and the Award Selection Committee would soon be inaugurated to enable them formally commence their roles. Efforts are ongoing to have the first Le Bon Prize award in 2026 with an initial value of $50,000.
3. Prof. Wole Soyinka Award for Youth Leadership (PWSAYL)
The National Association of Seadogs has an existing award called the Prof. Wole Soyinka Award for Youth Leadership. This has provided the Association a learning experience in managing awards. PWSAYL has now been discontinued in favour of the Le Bon Prize.
