Gambiaj.com – (LONDON, UK) – St. Mary’s Helpers Charity has conferred a Lifetime Achievement Award on Alhaji Momodou Ndow-Njie, former Commander of the Gambian Armed Forces and Ambassador of The Gambia to France, in recognition of his decades-long service to the nation in both military and diplomatic spheres.
The award ceremony, attended by a host of eminent personalities and Gambians in the diaspora, was graced by Mrs. Fatou Bom Bensouda, The Gambia’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, and Mr. Malik Jeng, Member of Parliament.
Though unable to attend in person due to a recent operation, Alhaji Ndow-Njie delivered a heartfelt video message expressing “deep gratitude and humility” for the recognition.
“My life has been one of service to The Gambia, to its people, and to the ideals of duty, integrity, unity, peace, and freedom,” he said. “This award is not mine alone. It belongs to those who walked beside me, officers, soldiers, diplomats, civil servants, and fellow Gambians at home and abroad, and especially to my family, whose steadfast support sustained me through every challenge.”
In his message, Alhaji Ndow-Njie reflected on a remarkable career spanning over five decades, marked by distinguished contributions to The Gambia’s nation-building efforts.
He began his public service in the Gambia Field Force, later serving as Aide-de-Camp to President Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara, and subsequently played a pioneering role in establishing the Gambian National Army. His diplomatic career saw him represent The Gambia in France, with accreditation to six other European countries, and at UNESCO.
Throughout his lifetime of service, Alhaji Ndow-Njie has received numerous honors, including the National Order of The Gambia, the Order of the Republic of Senegal, and the National Order of France, recognizing his contributions to peace, diplomacy, and leadership.
Beyond his official duties, he was also a former member of The Gambia’s national football team and an inductee into the Gambian National Olympic Sports Council Hall of Fame, underscoring his multifaceted dedication to the nation.
In closing his message, Alhaji Ndow-Njie extended special appreciation to St. Mary’s Helpers Charity for their commitment to community service, noting that “their compassion strengthens the bonds that hold our nation together.”
“Though I cannot be with you this evening, please accept my heartfelt thanks for this generous honor,” he said. “May The Gambia continue to move forward in unity, freedom, peace, and dignity.”
The event served not only as a tribute to Alhaji Ndow-Njie’s extraordinary legacy but also as a celebration of the enduring spirit of service that continues to inspire generations of Gambians.
