President Bola Tinubu has conferred national honours on 50 Nigerians for their roles in the pro-democracy struggle that culminated in the restoration of democratic governance in the country.
The honourees, announced on Friday, as part of the 2026 Democracy Day celebration, include journalists, civil rights activists, political leaders and military officers who participated in the campaign against military rule.
Among those recognised are Joe Igbokwe, Oladele Alake, Olatunji Bello, Richard Akinnola, Dr Joe Okei-Odumakin, Chief Ayo Opadokun, Prof. Sylvester Odion-Akhaine and the late Dr Arthur Nwankwo.
Tinubu described June 12 as a defining moment in Nigeria’s history, saying the date symbolises the nation’s commitment to democratic values and freedom.
“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 award recipients endured persecution, imprisonment, exile and other hardships during the struggle for democracy, stressing that their sacrifices helped secure the democratic freedoms Nigerians enjoy today.
The list also includes a category designated as “Soldier-Democrats,” comprising military officers who played roles in the fight against military dictatorship.
See list below:
Barrister Ayoka Lawani
Tunde Fagbenle
Oladele Alake
Olatunji Bello
Louis Odion
Segun Babatope
Sam Omatseye
Sir Ademola Osinubi
Bola Bolawole
Lade Bonuola
Femi Kusa
Debo Adeniran
Chief Ayo Opadokun
Chief Ralph Obioha
Ose Osayande
Barrister Osa Director
Prof. Sylvester Odion-Akhaine
Dr Arthur Nwankwo (Posthumous)
Dr Osagie Obayuwana
Dr Joe Okei-Odumakin
Barrister Titus Mann
Joe Igbokwe
Richard Akinnola
Ben Charles-Obi (Posthumous)
George Mbah
Dr
