Wole Soyinka, Femi Falana among Tinubu’s National Honours recipients

June 12, 2025

By Ayinde Adeleke

President Bola Tinubu has conferred national honours on several prominent Nigerians, recognizing their outstanding contributions to the country’s growth and development.

The list of recipients includes Nobel laureate Prof. Wole Soyinka, who was awarded the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON), and human rights activist Barrister Femi Falana, SAN, who received the Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON).

Other notable recipients include Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah, a prominent cleric and advocate for social justice, who also received the CON honour.

Journalists Kunle Ajibade, Nosa Igiebor, and Dapo Olorunyomi were awarded the Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON) for their contributions to the field of journalism.

The list of awardees also includes:

• Prof. Olatunji Dare (CON)
• Bayo Onanuga (CON)
• Ayo Obe (OON)
• Dare Babarinsa (CON)
• Senator Tokunbo Afikuyomi (CON)
• Hon. Labaran Maku (OON)
• Dr. Tunji Alausa (CON)
• Odia Ofeimun (CON)
• Seye Kehinde (OON)
• Barrister Felix Morka (CON)
• Barrister Ledum Mitee (CON)
• Hon. Olawale Osun (CON)
• Dr. Amos Akingba (CON)
• Prof. Segun Gbadegesin (CON)
• Mobolaji Akinyemi (CFR)
• Dr. Kayode Shonoiki (CON)
• Prof. Julius Ihonvbere (CON)
• Prof. Bayo Williams (CON)
• Sen. Abu Ibrahim (CFR)
• Sen. Ameh Ebute (CFR)
• General Alani Akinrinade (GCON)

The conferment of these national honours shows the recipients’ dedication to Nigeria’s growth and development in various fields, including literature, human rights, journalism, and public service.

Notably, the memory of Kudirat Abiola was also honoured, reflecting on her significant impact and legacy.