President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has conferred national honours on 50 Nigerians in recognition of their roles in the struggle for democracy and resistance to military rule.
Gatekeepers News reports that the honours were announced during the 2026 Democracy Day celebration, with the President recognising individuals who made significant contributions to the actualisation of the June 12, 1993 presidential election mandate and Nigeria’s democratic journey.
Among the recipients are Dele Alake, Joe Igbokwe, Sambo Dasuki, Richard Akinnola, Joe Okei-Odumakin, Debo Adeniran, Ayo Opadokun and Niran Malaolu.
Tinubu said the awardees were selected for their sacrifices and commitment to democratic governance, noting that many of them endured detention, exile, harassment and other forms of persecution during the military era.
The President also honoured a number of military officers described as “soldier-democrats” for their support for democratic ideals during periods of military rule. Those recognised include Sambo Dasuki, Lawan Gwadabe, Lawal Jaafaru Isa, Chris Eze, Harris Dzarma and several others.
According to the President, the award recipients played important roles in defending democratic values and helping to restore civilian rule in Nigeria. He stressed the need for the country to continue building strong democratic institutions and safeguarding the freedoms secured through years of struggle.
The national honours formed part of activities marking Democracy Day, which commemorates the June 12, 1993 presidential election, widely regarded as one of the most credible elections in Nigeria’s history.
The recognition was also seen as an effort to preserve the legacy of those who contributed to the country’s democratic development and to inspire future generations to uphold democratic principles.
