PENGASSAN has slammed the Tinubu administration for leaving out key oil and gas labour figures in the recent national honours for the June 12 struggle. The union says veterans who endured military bans and strikes deserve the same recognition as celebrated pro‑democracy icons. Their appeal revives a debate on whose sacrifices were truly pivotal for Nigeria’s democracy.
National honours – Africa’s top recognitions and why they matter
When talking about National honours, official recognitions granted by a government to individuals or groups for outstanding service, bravery, or cultural contribution. Also known as state awards, these recognitions can range from presidential commendations to military medals. In many African countries the award system reflects history, values and the desire to celebrate excellence.
One common subtype is State awards, formal recognitions issued by a nation for civilian achievements such as science, art or community service. Another key piece is Presidential commendations, high‑level honors handed out directly by the head of state for contributions that shape national identity. Finally, many governments use Civil service medals, awards for long‑standing public sector employees who improve governance and public welfare. These three entities together form the backbone of any national honours system.
National honours encompass state awards, military decorations and cultural medals. They require a nomination process, often overseen by a committee that checks eligibility against criteria such as impact, longevity and public benefit. This requirement links the honour system to broader governance, because transparent nominations can boost trust in institutions. At the same time, honours influence public perception: a celebrated athlete or scientist can become a role model, encouraging others to aim higher.
Across Africa, the impact of honours shows up in many fields. After Namibia’s surprise T20 win, players like Zane Green were praised with a special national honour, highlighting how sport achievements feed into national pride. In Kenya, the launch of Mazingira Day sparked talks about environmental awards that recognize tree‑planting champions, tying ecological work to state recognition. Even financial milestones, such as the Kenyan wealth flow to the Isle of Man, have spurred discussions about economic honours that reward investors who boost national growth.
These recognitions also intersect with politics and culture. When parliament scrutinises a mis‑managed pension fund, calls for an honour for whistle‑blowers often emerge, showing that honours can reinforce accountability. In the arts, musicians or filmmakers who capture African stories may receive cultural medals, linking creative output to national identity. The diversity of stories—from a NASA interstellar comet sighting to a New Zealand cricket triumph—illustrates how national honours can celebrate both local heroism and global milestones.
Our collection below brings together national honours stories that illustrate the range of awards, the people who receive them and the impact they have on societies across the continent. Dive in to see how these recognitions shape politics, sport, culture and the economy, and discover the latest developments in Africa’s honour systems.