President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in a major Democracy Day announcement, conferred national honours on 65 prominent Nigerians in recognition of their contributions to the nation, particularly those involved in the June 12 pro-democracy struggle.
Topping the list of honourees are Nobel Laureate Professor Wole Soyinka, prominent human rights lawyer Femi Falana (SAN), and Catholic Bishop of Sokoto Diocese, Matthew Hassan Kukah. The awards were given both to living individuals and posthumously to notable figures who played critical roles in Nigeria’s democratic journey.
Among those honoured posthumously is Mrs. Kudirat Abiola, who was posthumously awarded the Commander of the Federal Republic (CFR) for her activism following the annulment of the June 12, 1993, presidential election. Others receiving posthumous recognition include the late General Shehu Musa Yar’Adua (GCFR), Professor Humphrey Nwosu (CON), Rear Admiral Ndubuisi Kanu (CON), and environmental activist Ken Saro Wiwa, along with members of the Ogoni Nine, all of whom were also granted presidential pardons.
Prominent journalists and media veterans were among the living awardees. Prof. Olatunji Dare received the CON, while Kunle Ajibade and Dapo Olorunyomi were awarded the OON. Bayo Onanuga was honoured with the CON, and Ayo Obe received the OON. Vanguard publisher “Uncle” Sam Amuka Pemu was also conferred with the CON ahead of his 90th birthday on June 13.
Other figures on the list include Senator Shehu Sani, Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani, Prof. Shafideen Amuwo, Barrister Ledum Mitee, Hon. Labaran Maku, Prof. Julius Ihonvbere, and former Minister of Foreign Affairs, Prof. Bolaji Akinyemi. The awards span various categories, including Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON), Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic (CFR), Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON), and Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON).
In a symbolic gesture, Tinubu also formally decorated key National Assembly leaders with honours previously conferred in 2023. These include Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, both awarded the GCON, along with Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau and Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, who each received the CFR.
The honours come as part of efforts to institutionalise June 12 as a national symbol of democracy and commemorate those who paid the price for Nigeria’s democratic gains.
