Tinubu said Nigeria had achieved its longest uninterrupted period of civilian rule since the return to democracy on May 29, 1999, noting that political disagreements are now largely resolved through constitutional institutions rather than violence.
“Today, we celebrate not only democracy but also the enduring Nigerian spirit,” Tinubu said. “For 27 unbroken years, since Tinubu said. “For 27 unbroken years, since May 29, 1999, Nigerians have chosen their leaders through the ballot, witnessed peaceful transitions of power, and resolved disagreements in courtrooms and legislative chambers—not through violence.”
The national honours recipients include two former The Guardian editors, Lade Bonuola and Femi Kusa.
Others are: Barrister Ayoka Lawani; Tunde Fagbenle; Oladele Alake; Olatunji Bello; Louis Odion; Segun Babatope; Sam Omatseye; Sir Ademola Osinubi; Bola Bolawole; Debo Adeniran; Chief Ayo Opadokun; Chief Ralph Obiora; 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 Niran Malaolu; Major-General Ishola Williams (rtd); Femi Aborisade; Jenkins Alumona; Gbemiga Ogunleye; Muyiwa Adekeye; Babajide Kolade-Otitoju; Ike Okonta The “soldier-democrats of the June 12 struggle” are: Major General MA Garba; Brigadier General Lawal Jaafaru Isa; Col Umar Farouk Ahmed; Col Sambo Dasuki; Col Lawan Gwadabe; Brigadier Jonathan Ndam Temlong; Col Musa Shehu; Major General Chris Eze; Major General Harris Dzarma; Col Isa Jibrin; Maj. General Joseph Oshanupin; Col Olusegun Oloruntoba; Lieutenant Colonel Happy Kefas Bulus; Col J Okai; Col Emmanuel Ndubueze; Lt Col Yakubu Muazu; and Brigadier Yahaya Abubakar.
The President urged stakeholders to ensure peaceful and credible governorship elections in Ekiti and Osun states, calling on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), security agencies and political parties to protect public confidence in the electoral process. He also appealed to the National Assembly, judiciary, media and civil society organisations to continue defending democratic institutions, stressing that criticism and disagreement remain essential components of democracy.
Addressing young Nigerians, Tinubu urged them to invest their talents and aspirations in the country, encouraging them to build businesses, pursue careers and participate actively in the democratic process.
The President commended members of the armed forces, police and intelligence services for their sacrifices, while also acknowledging the roles played by traditional rulers, religious leaders and community heads in promoting peace and reconciliation across the country.