Tinubu confers national honours on Joe Igbokwe, Dele Alake, Dasuki, 47 other Nigerians (Full List)

President Bola Tinubu has conferred national honours on 50 Nigerians in recognition of their contributions to the pro-democracy struggle that culminated in the restoration of democratic governance in the country.

The honours, announced during the 2026 Democracy Day celebration, were bestowed on journalists, civil rights activists, political figures and military officers who played significant roles in resisting military dictatorship and advancing democratic ideals.

Speaking during the ceremony, Tinubu described June 12 as a defining moment in Nigeria’s history and paid tribute to those who sacrificed their freedom, careers and, in some cases, their lives for the cause of democracy.

“June 12 occupies a sacred place in our national memory. It represents more than an election; it is a defining chapter in our story,” the President said.

He noted that many of the awardees endured persecution, imprisonment, exile and other hardships in their efforts to secure democratic governance for future generations.

According to him, the greatest tribute Nigerians can pay to the heroes of June 12 is to strengthen democratic institutions, uphold justice and ensure that governance delivers meaningful benefits to citizens.

Among those honoured were veteran journalists, civil society leaders, legal practitioners and notable pro-democracy advocates, including Dr. Joe Okei-Odumakin, Chief Ayo Opadokun, Richard Akinnola, Debo Adeniran, Prof. Sylvester Odion-Akhaine and the late Dr. Arthur Nwankwo.

The list also included several military officers described as “Soldier-Democrats” for their contributions to the struggle for democratic rule. They include Major General M.A. Garba, Brigadier General Lawal Jaafaru Isa, Colonel Sambo Dasuki, Colonel Lawan Gwadabe, Major General Chris Eze, Major General Harris Dzarma and Brigadier Yahaya Abubakar, the Etsu Nupe.

Tinubu stressed that while the heroes of June 12 secured political freedom, the current generation must focus on securing economic prosperity and improving the quality of life of Nigerians.

“The generation of our founding fathers secured independence.”

“The generation of June 12 secured democracy. Our generation must secure prosperity,” he said.

The President added that the complete honours list and categories of awards would be officially released in the coming days.

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