President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has recently sanctioned the conferment of national honours on 959 distinguished individuals, encompassing both Nigerians and foreign nationals, following his leadership over pivotal meetings of the National Council of State and the Police Council at the State House in Abuja. This significant announcement underscores the administration’s commitment to recognizing exceptional contributions to Nigeria’s growth and global humanity, as well as implementing transformative reforms to bolster the nation’s security framework.
Dr. Emanso Umobong, the Permanent Secretary of the Cabinet Affairs Office, revealed that President Tinubu formally endorsed the recommendations of the National Honours Award Committee for the 2024 and 2025 cycles, alongside special presidential awards that had been conferred earlier in the year, according to a report by Punch. This meticulous selection process involved screening over 5,000 nominations, from which 824 individuals were chosen for the 2024/2025 National Honours. Additionally, 135 recipients were recognized through special presidential awards, culminating in a total of 959 honorees. This comprehensive recognition reflects the diversity of contributions that have shaped Nigeria’s socio-economic, cultural, and political landscape.
The National Honours Award is an annual tradition designed to celebrate citizens and non-citizens who have demonstrated exemplary service to Nigeria and humanity at large. The awards serve as a testament to the nation’s appreciation for individuals who have excelled in various fields, including public health, journalism, sports, governance, and environmental advocacy. By honoring such a diverse group, the government aims to inspire others to contribute meaningfully to national development.
Among the notable figures recognized in the past year is Bill Gates, the globally renowned philanthropist, who was honored for his transformative work in public health, particularly through initiatives that have improved healthcare access and disease prevention in Nigeria. Another recipient, Uncle Sam Pemu, was celebrated for his remarkable contributions to journalism, which have enriched Nigeria’s media landscape and promoted informed public discourse. In the realm of sports, the Super Falcons and D’Tigress, Nigeria’s women’s national football and basketball teams, respectively, were lauded for their outstanding achievements, showcasing the country’s prowess on the global stage.
The honours also extended to Professor Mahmood Yakubu, the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), for his steadfast commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s democratic processes. His leadership in overseeing elections has been pivotal in advancing the nation’s democratic institutions, despite the complexities and challenges associated with electoral management in a diverse country like Nigeria.
In a poignant gesture, the government posthumously honored the Ogoni Nine and Ogoni Four, recognizing their sacrifices as environmental activists who fought for justice and the preservation of their land in the face of adversity. Their legacy continues to inspire environmental advocacy and the pursuit of equitable resource management in Nigeria.
Beyond the conferment of national honours, President Tinubu’s leadership during the Council of State meeting paved the way for significant policy decisions aimed at addressing critical national issues. One of the key outcomes was the approval of sweeping reforms to the Nigeria Police Trust Fund (NPTF), a move that signals the administration’s prioritization of security sector enhancement. These reforms were deliberated and finalized during a subsequent session of the Police Council, chaired by the President, where stakeholders reviewed strategies to strengthen the Nigeria Police Force.
The Minister of Police Affairs, Ibrahim Geidam, provided details on the approved changes, which include the repeal and re-enactment of the Nigeria Police Trust Fund Act of 2019. A significant amendment is the removal of the six-year limit previously imposed on the fund, effectively establishing it as a permanent agency. This change ensures the sustainability of initiatives aimed at improving police welfare, training, and operational capacity.
Additionally, the allocation to the NPTF has been doubled from 0.5% to 1% of the Federation Account. This increase is expected to provide a substantial boost to the fund’s resources, enabling it to address critical needs such as enhanced training programs, improved welfare packages for police personnel, and the acquisition of advanced technology to modernize policing operations. These measures are particularly crucial in a country grappling with multifaceted security challenges, including insurgency, banditry, and communal conflicts.
To operationalize these reforms, the Attorney-General of the Federation has been tasked with drafting an executive bill that encapsulates all approved changes. This bill will be submitted to the National Assembly for legislative review and passage, marking a critical step toward institutionalizing the reforms. The government’s proactive approach in this regard reflects a broader vision of fostering a more effective and responsive police force capable of safeguarding lives and property across Nigeria.
The dual focus on recognizing individual excellence through national honours and implementing structural reforms in the security sector underscores President Tinubu’s multifaceted approach to governance. By celebrating the achievements of citizens and non-citizens alike, the administration not only rewards past contributions but also sets a high standard for future endeavors. The recognition of figures like Bill Gates highlights Nigeria’s openness to acknowledging global partnerships that advance its development goals, while honoring local heroes like Uncle Sam Pemu and the Super Falcons reinforces the value of homegrown talent and resilience.
The posthumous honours for the Ogoni Nine and Ogoni Four carry particular significance, as they serve as a reminder of Nigeria’s complex history with environmental justice and resource governance. The Ogoni activists’ struggle for environmental sustainability and equitable resource distribution remains relevant today, as Nigeria continues to navigate the challenges of balancing economic growth with environmental preservation.
The reforms to the Nigeria Police Trust Fund are equally consequential, as they address systemic issues that have long hindered the effectiveness of the Nigeria Police Force. By increasing funding and ensuring the permanence of the NPTF, the government is laying the groundwork for a more professional and well-equipped police force. This is particularly critical at a time when public trust in security institutions is fragile, and the demand for efficient, transparent, and community-oriented policing is at an all-time high.
The approval of these reforms also demonstrates the administration’s responsiveness to public demands for improved security. The increased allocation to the NPTF will enable investments in cutting-edge technology, such as surveillance systems and data-driven policing tools, which are essential for tackling modern security threats. Moreover, enhanced training programs will equip officers with the skills needed to navigate complex operational environments, while improved welfare packages will boost morale and reduce incentives for corruption within the force.
As the Attorney-General prepares the executive bill for submission to the National Assembly, there is an opportunity for lawmakers to engage in robust deliberations to ensure that the reforms align with the needs of the police and the expectations of the public. The legislative process will also provide a platform for stakeholders to address any potential gaps in the proposed changes, ensuring that the NPTF operates with maximum efficiency and accountability.
In conclusion, President Tinubu’s approval of national honours for 959 individuals and the reforms to the Nigeria Police Trust Fund represent significant milestones in Nigeria’s journey toward progress and stability. The honours celebrate the diverse contributions of individuals who have shaped the nation’s trajectory, from public health and journalism to sports and governance. Meanwhile, the reforms to the NPTF signal a commitment to addressing systemic challenges in the security sector, paving the way for a more effective and responsive police force. Together, these actions reflect a holistic approach to nation-building, one that honors excellence, fosters resilience, and prioritizes the safety and well-being of all Nigerians. As the country moves forward, these initiatives are likely to inspire further contributions from citizens and strengthen the institutions that underpin Nigeria’s development.
