Democracy Day: Tinubu Confers Honours on Uba Sani, Shehu Sani, Others

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has honoured prominent Nigerians, including Kaduna State Governor Senator Uba Sani and former lawmaker and rights activist Senator Shehu Sani, for their pivotal roles in the struggle for democracy in Nigeria.

Speaking during the 2025 Democracy Day celebration on June 12, President Tinubu acknowledged the sacrifices made by several pro-democracy advocates during Nigeria’s years under military rule. In a speech delivered before a joint session of the National Assembly, the President commended the bravery and enduring commitment of individuals like Uba Sani and Shehu Sani in advancing democratic ideals.

“These patriots stood firm when it mattered most,” Tinubu said. “Their courage helped shape the democratic foundation we stand on today.”

As part of the commemorations, President Tinubu conferred national honours on several distinguished Nigerians for their contributions to the democratic journey. The list includes academics, journalists, politicians, civil society leaders, and posthumous awardees.

Key honourees include:

Prof. Wole Soyinka – Grand Commander of the Niger (GCON)
Senator Shehu Sani – Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON)
Governor Uba Sani – Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON)
Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah – CON
Barrister Femi Falana, SAN – CON
Dapo Olorunyomi (Publisher, Premium Times) – Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON)
Bayo Onanuga (Presidential spokesman) – CON
Ken Saro-Wiwa (Posthumous) – CON
Alhaja Sawaba Gambo – CON
Chief Bola Ige – CFR
Mobolaji Akinyemi – CFR
Others honoured include rights activists, lawmakers, journalists, and late pro-democracy campaigners such as Rear Admiral Ndubuisi Kanu, Balarabe Musa, Chief Frank Kokori, and Odia Ofeimun.

The recognition, Tinubu said, is part of a broader effort by the federal government to memorialize the efforts and legacies of those who played vital roles in shaping Nigeria’s democratic evolution.