The United Nations Secretary General, Dr. Kofi Annan arrived in the country tonight to receive the highest Award of the Millennium Excellence Awards, The Global Excellence Award. Accompanied by his wife, Nani, Dr Annan was received by the Foreign Minister Hon Nana Akuffo Addo, Chairman of the Board of Governors of the Millenium Excellence Award Foundation Dr Kwabena Duffuor, and Mr Ashim Morton, Founder of the Foundation.

The Millenium Excellence Awards, the second since 2000, will be presented to deserving personalities and institutions at a ceremony on Friday.

His Royal Majesty, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, Asantehene and Life Patron of the Foundation is scheduled to present the special Award to the UN General Secretary at the ceremony.

His Excellency the President John Agyekum Kufuor and the First Lady will be present to witness awards to be conferred on several Ghanaians and foreigners who have distinguished themselves and contributed to the nation?s development over the years.

Other Heads of State who have confirmed their participation include His Excellencies President Olusegun Obasanjo of Nigeria, President Yahya Jammeh of the Gambia, President Kerekou of Benin, and President Faure Gnasingbe of Togo. Other Heads of State are expected to confirm their participation to come to the Millennium Excellence Awards by Wednesday, 17th August.

There will be a dinner dance with all award recipients and all Heads of State .