President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved national honours for 959 individuals, including distinguished Nigerians and foreign nationals, in recognition of their outstanding contributions to national growth and humanity.
The announcement followed the meetings of the National Council of State and the Police Council held at the State House, Abuja, earlier this week.
According to Dr. Emanso Umobong, Permanent Secretary of the Cabinet Affairs Office, the President endorsed the report of the National Honours Award Committee for both 2024 and 2025.
He also approved special presidential awards that were earlier conferred this year.
“Out of over 5,000 nominations screened, 824 individuals were selected for the 2024/2025 National Honours, while 135 others received special presidential awards bringing the total to 959,” Umobong stated.
Umobong noted that the awards celebrate both citizens and non-citizens who have made meaningful impacts on Nigeria’s development and the welfare of humanity.
The annual ceremony, according to him, continues to serve as a symbol of national pride and encouragement for excellence across various sectors.
Some previous recipients include Bill Gates, honoured for his role in advancing global health; Uncle Sam Amuka-Pemufor his outstanding contribution to journalism; as well as Nigeria’s female sports teams, the Super Falcons and D’Tigress, for their excellence in sports.
In addition, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), was recognized for his service to Nigeria’s democracy.
The government also posthumously honoured the late Ogoni Nine and Ogoni Four for their environmental activism and sacrifice.
Meanwhile, during the Police Council meeting presided over by President Tinubu, key reforms to the Nigeria Police Trust Fund (NPTF) were approved.
The Minister of Police Affairs, Ibrahim Geidam, confirmed that the Council endorsed the repeal and re-enactment of the 2019 Police Trust Fund Act, which removes its initial six-year limit and establishes it as a permanent agency.
“The allocation of the fund has been increased from 0.5% to 1% of the Federation Account to enhance training, welfare, and technology acquisition for the police,” Geidam explained.
He further disclosed that the Attorney-General of the Federation has been directed to prepare an executive bill reflecting the approved amendments for presentation to the National Assembly.
The National Honours, along with the Police Trust Fund reforms, are viewed as strategic moves to strengthen governance and public confidence in national systems.
