President Tinubu Confers National Honours on Aisha Yesufu, Innocent Chukwuma, Tunde Bakare, Nuhu Ribadu, and Other Distinguished Nigerians

In a significant recognition of exemplary service and contributions to national development, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has conferred National Honours on a diverse group of Nigerians, celebrating their impactful work across various sectors. The expanded list includes prominent activists, business leaders, religious figures, and public servants, reflecting the administration’s commitment to acknowledging excellence and dedication to Nigeria’s progress.

The prestigious awards, announced on Friday, June 13, 2025, include the Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON) and the Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR), two of Nigeria’s highest national honors. The recipients were selected for their outstanding contributions in areas such as governance, civil society advocacy, business innovation, and social justice.

Recipients of the Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON)

The CON, one of Nigeria’s most esteemed honors, was conferred on the following individuals:

• Aisha Yesufu: A renowned activist and co-founder of the #BringBackOurGirls movement, Yesufu has been a vocal advocate for good governance, transparency, and accountability in Nigeria. Her fearless commentary on national issues has earned her widespread recognition.
• Innocent Chukwuma: The Chairman and CEO of Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing (IVM), Chukwuma is celebrated for his pioneering efforts in Nigeria’s automotive industry, promoting local manufacturing and job creation.
• Uche Chukwumerije: A fitness expert and social entrepreneur, Chukwumerije is recognized for his contributions to youth empowerment and promoting healthy lifestyles in Nigeria.
• Olisa Agbakoba: A distinguished lawyer and human rights advocate, Agbakoba, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), has been instrumental in advancing legal reforms and democratic principles.
• Nuhu Ribadu: The National Security Adviser (NSA) and former Chairman of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Ribadu is honored for his relentless efforts in combating corruption and enhancing national security.
• Hafsat Abiola-Costello: A human rights activist and founder of the Kudirat Initiative for Democracy (KIND), Abiola-Costello is recognized for her work in promoting women’s rights and democratic governance.
• Tunde Bakare: A prominent cleric and social critic, Pastor Bakare, founder of The Citadel Global Community Church, is celebrated for his advocacy for justice, equity, and national unity.

Recipients of the Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR)

The MFR, another prestigious honor, was awarded to the following individuals for their remarkable contributions to Nigeria’s development:

• Ibijoke Faborode: A gender equality advocate, Faborode is recognized for her work in empowering women and promoting inclusive policies.
• Seun Onigbinde: Co-founder of BudgIT, Onigbinde is honored for his efforts in promoting fiscal transparency and citizen engagement in governance.
• Samson Itodo: Executive Director of YIAGA Africa, Itodo is celebrated for his contributions to electoral reforms and youth participation in democratic processes.
• Ezenwa Nwagwu: A civil society leader, Nwagwu is recognized for his advocacy for accountability and anti-corruption initiatives.
• Abiola Akiyode-Afolabi: A women’s rights activist and founder of WARDC (Women Advocates Research and Documentation Centre), Akiyode-Afolabi is honored for her work in advancing gender justice.
• Ariyo-Dare Atoye: A governance advocate and convener of the Coalition in Defence of Nigerian Democracy, Atoye is recognized for his efforts in promoting democratic accountability.
• Ndidi Nwuneli: A social entrepreneur and founder of LEAP Africa, Nwuneli is celebrated for her contributions to leadership development and sustainable agriculture.
• Issa Aremu: A labor leader and Director-General of the Michael Imoudu National Institute for Labour Studies, Aremu is honored for his advocacy for workers’ rights.
• Hamzat Lawal: Founder of Follow The Money, Lawal is recognized for his work in promoting transparency in public spending and grassroots accountability.

Significance of the National Honours

The National Honours, established under the National Honours Act of 1964, are conferred annually to recognize Nigerians and friends of Nigeria who have rendered exceptional service to the nation. The awards are a testament to the recipients’ dedication to advancing Nigeria’s socio-economic, political, and cultural landscape.

In a statement, President Tinubu emphasized the importance of recognizing individuals who have made significant sacrifices for the nation. “These honorees represent the best of Nigeria—men and women who have shown courage, innovation, and commitment to building a better future for our country,” he said. “Their contributions inspire us all to strive for excellence and unity.”

Public Reactions

The announcement has sparked widespread reactions across social media platforms, particularly on X, where Nigerians have expressed pride in the honorees while also debating the selection process. Many praised the inclusion of activists like Aisha Yesufu and Hafsat Abiola-Costello, noting their consistent advocacy for justice and good governance. Others commended the recognition of business leaders like Innocent Chukwuma, whose Innoson brand has become a symbol of Nigerian ingenuity.

However, some users on X called for greater transparency in the nomination process, urging the government to ensure that future awards reflect a broader representation of Nigeria’s diverse regions and sectors.

Looking Ahead

The conferment of these National Honours underscores President Tinubu’s administration’s focus on celebrating excellence and fostering national pride. As Nigeria navigates complex challenges, the contributions of these honorees serve as a reminder of the power of individual and collective efforts in driving progress.

The award ceremony is expected to take place at a later date, where the recipients will be formally decorated by President Tinubu in Abuja. Nigerians await further details on the event, which is anticipated to be a moment of national celebration.