In a significant moment during Nigeria’s 64th Independence Day celebrations, President Bola Tinubu conferred the prestigious Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON) on Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Chief Justice of Nigeria, Kudirat Kekere-Ekun.
This announcement came as part of President Tinubu’s address to the nation, underscoring the importance of the day and recognizing the contributions of these national leaders.
The GCON, one of Nigeria’s highest national honours, is awarded to individuals who have rendered outstanding service to the nation. In bestowing this honour, President Tinubu acknowledged the critical roles Akpabio and Kekere-Ekun play in Nigeria’s governance and judiciary.
“The Senate President and the Chief Justice of Nigeria have been conferred with the honour of the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON),” President Tinubu stated during his address.
Additionally, the Deputy Senate President, Barau Jibrin, and the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abass, were awarded the title of Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic (CFR). Benjamin Kalu, Deputy Speaker of the House, received the title of Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON).
Senator Akpabio’s GCON honour is a recognition of his longstanding service to the nation. He has previously served as Governor of Akwa Ibom State from 2007 to 2015, Senate Minority Leader from 2015 to 2018, Minister of Niger Delta Affairs from 2019 to 2022, and now holds the office of Senate President since June 2023.
Reporter: Mariam Zakari, ADBN News.
