President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has conferred national honours on several distinguished Nigerians in recognition of their roles in promoting democracy, human rights, literature, and national development.
The honours were announced during the 2025 Democracy Day celebrations held at a special Joint Session of the National Assembly on Wednesday, June 12.
Among the top honourees was the late Kudirat Abiola, posthumously awarded the title of Commander of the Federal Republic (CFR) for her sacrifice in the pro-democracy struggle following the annulled 1993 presidential election.
Others awarded the CFR include former Attorney General Bola Ige and Afenifere leader Pa Reuben Fasoranti.
Veteran journalist Bayo Onanuga, human rights lawyer Femi Falana, activist and former senator Shehu Sani, and democracy advocate Nurudeen Olowokere were honoured with the title of Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON).
Nobel Laureate Prof. Wole Soyinka and respected columnist Prof. Olatunji Dare received the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON)—Nigeria’s second-highest national honour.
President Tinubu praised the honourees for their commitment to justice and democracy, stating:
“These men and women have paid the price, used their voice, pen, and courage to shape the democratic space we now enjoy.”
Full citations and further award details are expected to be released soon.
