- Tinubu Pays Tribute to June 12 Heroes with National Awards
- Among those recognised is Sir Ademola Osinubi, a veteran journalist whose career at PUNCH spanned 45 years
- Prominent pro-democracy activists and civil society figures were also on the honours list
President Bola Tinubu has announced national honours for 50 Nigerians, including former Managing Director of PUNCH Nigeria Limited, Sir Ademola Osinubi, in recognition of their contributions to Nigeria’s democratic journey and the struggle against military rule.
Eko Hot Blog reports that the announcement was made on Friday during the 2026 Democracy Day celebration, where the President paid tribute to journalists, activists, lawyers, retired military officers, and pro-democracy campaigners who endured persecution, imprisonment, exile, and other hardships in the fight to restore democratic governance.
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Among those recognised is Sir Ademola Osinubi, a veteran journalist whose career at PUNCH spanned 45 years. During the military era, PUNCH remained one of the strongest voices against authoritarian rule despite facing government harassment, advertising boycotts, and threats from security agencies.
Osinubi joined the newspaper in 1976 and rose through the ranks, serving as editor of Saturday PUNCH, Sunday PUNCH, and The PUNCH before becoming Managing Director and Editor-in-Chief. He retired in April 2022 after decades of service.
Also honoured are former Concord Newspapers Editorial Board Chairman, Segun Babatope; Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dr. Dele Alake, who previously served as editor of Sunday Concord and National Concord; and Chairman of the Editorial Board of THISDAY, Olatunji Bello.
Other journalists recognised include Sam Omatseye, Bola Bolawole, Gbemiga Ogunleye, Muyiwa Adekeye, Richard Akinnola, Louis Odion, Tunde Fagbenle, Lade Bonuola, Femi Kusa, and veteran broadcaster Babajide Kolade-Otitoju.
Tinubu also honoured several journalists who were detained under the military regime of the late General Sani Abacha, including Ben Charles-Obi, George Mbah, Osa Director, and Niran Malaolu.
Prominent pro-democracy activists and civil society figures on the honours list include Dr. Joe Okei-Odumakin, Chief Ayo Opadokun, Prof. Sylvester Odion-Akhaine, Debo Adeniran, Femi Aborisade, and the late Dr. Arthur Nwankwo, who received a posthumous honour.
The President equally recognised 17 retired military officers described as “soldier-democrats” for their roles in defending democratic ideals during the June 12 struggle. Among them are Maj. Gen. M.A. Garba, Brig. Gen. Lawal Jaafaru Isa, Col. Lawan Gwadabe, Maj. Gen. Chris Eze, Maj. Gen. Harris Dzarma, Brig. Yahaya Abubakar, and former National Security Adviser, Col. Sambo Dasuki.
Speaking during the ceremony, Tinubu praised the sacrifices made by those who fought for democracy, noting that many paid a heavy personal price in pursuit of a free and democratic Nigeria.
“I salute labour leaders, journalists, activists, students, women, professionals, political leaders and soldiers, both those who have passed and those still with us, for their patriotic contributions,” the President said.
He added that the best way to honour their sacrifices is by strengthening democratic institutions, promoting justice, expanding opportunities, and ensuring accountability in governance.
Tinubu disclosed that a comprehensive list detailing the specific national honours awarded to each recipient will be released in the coming days by the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation.
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