President Bola Tinubu has announced national honours for scores of pro-democracy campaigners, journalists, civil society advocates and military officers who played significant roles in the struggle for the restoration of democratic rule in Nigeria.
The President made the announcement during his Democracy Day address on Friday, saying the recognition was dedicated to individuals who endured persecution, imprisonment, exile and other hardships in the fight against military rule.
Tinubu said the awardees made immense sacrifices that helped secure and sustain democratic governance in the country, noting that their contributions should never be forgotten.
“I am pleased to announce national awards to Nigerians who suffered persecution, endured indignities, exile, incarceration and, at times, solitary confinement, so that we have democracy today,” the President stated.
Among those named for the honours are former Lagos State Commissioner for Information, Oladele Alake; activist Dr Joe Okei-Odumakin; journalist Babajide Kolade-Otitoju; human rights advocate Richard Akinnola; Chief Ayo Opadokun; Debo Adeniran; Dr Niran Malaolu; Major General Ishola Williams (retd); Bola Bolawole and several other democracy campaigners.
Tinubu also recognised a number of military officers whom he described as “soldier-democrats” for their roles during the June 12 struggle. They include Colonel Sambo Dasuki, Major General M.A. Garba, Brigadier General Lawal Jaafaru Isa, Colonel Lawan Gwadabe, Brigadier Jonathan Ndam Temlong, Major General Chris Eze and the Etsu Nupe, Brigadier Yahaya Abubakar.
“The sacrifices of these men and women helped preserve the democratic ideals we enjoy today and their contributions must remain part of our national memory,” the President said.
He added that details of the award categories and the complete list of recipients would be released in the coming days, urging Nigerians to remain committed to democratic values and national unity. “The road ahead may be challenging, but June 12 reminds us that Nigerians remain resilient in the face of adversity,” he added.