President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has announced national honours for dozens of Nigerians who played key roles in the struggle for democracy, recognising their sacrifices during the years of military rule. The announcement was made during his Democracy Day address on June 12.
The President said the awards are meant to honour individuals who endured persecution, imprisonment, exile and other hardships in the fight to restore democratic rule in Nigeria. According to him, many of those being recognised paid a heavy price to ensure that future generations could enjoy freedom and democratic governance.
Among those listed for national honours are journalists, lawyers, civil rights activists and political figures who were active during the June 12 struggle. Several recipients are also being honoured posthumously for their contributions to the country’s democratic journey.
Tinubu also paid tribute to a group he described as “soldier-democrats” — military officers who supported the return to civilian rule despite the risks involved. He said their courage helped shape Nigeria’s democratic future and deserved national recognition.
The President used the occasion to remember some of the most prominent figures associated with the June 12 movement, including pro-democracy campaigners who challenged military rule and demanded that the results of the 1993 presidential election be respected. That election, won by Moshood Abiola, is widely regarded as one of the freest in Nigeria’s history.
According to Tinubu, the sacrifices made by these individuals laid the foundation for the democratic system Nigerians enjoy today. He urged citizens to protect and strengthen democratic institutions while remembering those who fought for political freedom.
The President also announced that a complete list of award recipients would be released in the coming days. The honours cover people from different backgrounds who contributed to the pro-democracy movement through activism, journalism, law, politics and public service.
Nigeria marks Democracy Day every year on June 12 to commemorate the historic 1993 election and the long struggle that followed. The day serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by countless Nigerians who fought to end military rule and establish democratic governance in the country.
