Full List of Nigerian National Honours and What They Represent

The Nigerian National Honours are a set of awards bestowed by the Nigerian government to recognise and reward outstanding citizens

• This honour has also been bestowed on foreign nationals who have contributed significantly to the country
• The honours are divided into different categories and levels, each representing a specific rank and significance

FCT, Abuja - In 2023, specifically four days before the inauguration ceremony for the transition of a new government in Nigeria, President Muhammadu Buhari conferred the president-elect, Bola Tinubu, the highest national honour of the Grand Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic (GCFR).

However, other national honours are conferred on individuals for their outstanding contributions and achievements to Nigeria.

These awards serve as a symbol of appreciation and encouragement for these individuals. On Tuesday, June 3, President Bola Tinubu conferred the Nigerian National Honour of Commander of the Federal Republic (CFR) on Bill Gates. The president explained that the honour was in recognition of Gates' long-time commitment to improving lives in Nigeria and across Africa through interventions in global health and polio eradication, agricultural development, digital innovation and education.

This article will explore the complete list of Nigerian national honours and shed light on what each represents.

1. Grand Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic (GCFR)

It is the highest national honour in Nigeria, and the President of Nigeria have mostly held it.

During the second republic, President Shehu Shagari conferred the honour on Chief Obafemi Awolowo for his outstanding service to Nigeria before and after independence.

In 2018, President Muhammadu Buhari announced the conferment of the GCFR honour on the late Moshood Kashimawo Abiola, the presumed winner of the June 12, 1993, election.

Similarly, President Buhari, again, in 2023, conferred the president-elect, Bola Tinubu, the same honour four days before his inauguration.

2. Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON)

This is Nigeria's second-highest national honour and has been mostly bestowed on the Vice President, the Senate President and the Chief Justice.

However, there have been exceptions where the award is conferred on individuals who have been exceptional in international politics and the diplomatic space.

A 2022 recipient, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, is the Director General of the World Trade Organisation, and the Nigerian-British Amina J. Mohammed is the Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations.

3. Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic (CFR)

This is an award that is bestowed upon past and present Speakers of the House of Representatives, top cabinet members of the national executive council, military generals, past and present police chiefs and traditional rulers.

4. Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON)

In recent times, state governors, lawmakers, senior advocates and some top cabinet members of the national executive council are being conferred this title.

5. Officer of the Order of the Federal Republic (OFR)

The Order of the Federal Republic (OFR) is the highest civilian national honour in Nigeria.

It is awarded to individuals who have rendered exceptional service to the nation in various capacities.

Recipients of this honour have demonstrated outstanding leadership, contributed to national development, and promoted unity and peace.

6. Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON)

The Order of the Niger (OON) is the second-highest civilian national honour in Nigeria.

It is awarded to individuals who have made significant contributions in various fields, such as academia, business, the arts, and culture.

Recipients of this honour have distinguished themselves through excellence, innovation, and national impact.

7. Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR)

The Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) is a national honour awarded to individuals who have shown remarkable service and commitment to Nigeria.

This honour is often conferred on individuals who have excelled in public service, governance, and community development.

Last year, Afro-fusion sensation and Grammy Award winner, Burna Boy, was conferred with the MFR honour by President Muhammadu Buhari.

8. Member of the Order of the Niger (MON)

The Member of the Order of the Niger is a national honour bestowed on individuals who have made notable contributions to the nation.

Recognises their achievements and positive influence in their respective fields, including sports, entertainment, journalism, and social advocacy.

Buhari Confers GCFR, GCON Honours on Tinubu, Shettima, 4 Days to Leave Office

Meanwhile, Bola Tinubu, the president-elect, has been honoured with the Grand Commander of the Federal Republic (GCFR) by President Muhammadu Buhari.

Buhari also conferred the honour of the Grand Commander of the Order of Niger (GCON) on the vice president-elect, Kashim Shettima.

The outgoing president made the move four days before the expiration of his tenure and presented the duo with his transition document ahead of May 29.

Source: Legit.ng