President Bola Tinubu has announced national honours for 51 distinguished Nigerians as part of activities marking the 2026 Democracy Day celebration.
In his nationwide address commemorating 27 years of uninterrupted democratic governance, the President recognised the contributions of pro-democracy advocates, journalists, activists, and retired military officers who played significant roles in Nigeria’s democratic development.
Tinubu paid tribute to the late Chief M.K.O. Abiola, widely regarded as the winner of the June 12, 1993 presidential election, as well as other individuals whose sacrifices helped shape the country’s democratic journey. He emphasized that while democracy may face challenges, it remains the strongest foundation for national growth and progress.
Among those selected for national honours are prominent members of the pro-democracy movement, including Chief Ayo Opadokun, Chief Ralph Obioha, and the late Dr. Arthur Nwankwo. Several veteran journalists, such as Lade Bonuola, Femi Kusa, Sir Ademola Osinubi, and Dele Alake, were also recognised.
Notable civil rights advocates, including Dr. Joe Okei-Odumakin, Richard Akinnola, and Prof. Sylvester Odion-Akhaine, were honoured for their contributions to the struggle for democratic governance.
The President further acknowledged several retired military officers who opposed military dictatorship and supported democratic rule. Those recognised include Col. Sambo Dasuki (retd.), Col. Lawan Gwadabe (retd.), Maj.-Gen. Ishola Williams (retd.), and Brig.-Gen. Yahaya Abubakar (retd.), the Etsu Nupe.
As part of the commemorative initiatives, the Federal Government approved the renaming of the Institute of Petroleum Studies in Kaduna to the General Shehu Musa Yar’Adua University of Geological Sciences and Engineering Technology, in honour of the late statesman’s contributions to Nigeria’s democratic evolution.
Addressing national security concerns, Tinubu described security as a critical pillar of democracy. He expressed concern over recent abductions involving students in Oyo and Borno States and reiterated the administration’s commitment to restoring safety across the country.
According to the President, the 2026 budget allocates ₦5.41 trillion to defence and security, while more than 50,000 additional police officers are being recruited to strengthen law enforcement efforts nationwide. He warned criminal groups, kidnappers, and terrorist sponsors to abandon their activities or face decisive action from the government.
Tinubu noted that terror-related fatalities have significantly declined over the years and stated that thousands of terrorists had been neutralised in recent operations, while many others had surrendered through rehabilitation programmes.
On the economy, the President defended ongoing reforms, describing them as necessary steps toward stabilising public finances and strengthening economic growth. He stated that the next phase of governance would focus on ensuring citizens experience the direct benefits of democracy through improved living standards and economic opportunities.
The administration plans to intensify efforts to combat inflation, boost local production, create jobs, and improve overall economic conditions. Tinubu also announced measures to tackle challenges in the power sector, including approval for a ₦4 trillion bond aimed at settling long-standing debts within the electricity value chain.
He highlighted the positive impact of the Electricity Act, which allows states to participate more actively in electricity generation and distribution, and reaffirmed support for financial autonomy across all 774 local government areas.
The President called on political stakeholders, electoral authorities, security agencies, and citizens to uphold democratic values ahead of the upcoming governorship elections in Ekiti and Osun States.
He concluded by urging Nigerians to remain united in building a more prosperous nation, stressing that while previous generations secured independence and democracy, the present generation must focus on achieving widespread prosperity and sustainable development.
