In a bold call that challenges Nigeria’s tradition of political self-glorification, former Anambra State Governor and Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi, has urged the federal government to redirect its highest national honours toward entrepreneurs, job creators, and builders of the Nigerian dream.
Obi, speaking at the unveiling of “The Chronicles of a Legend”, a biography chronicling the life of Chief Gabriel Osawaru Igbinedion, the Esama of Benin Kingdom, emphasized that the Grand Commander of the Federal Republic (GCFR) and Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON) should no longer be reserved solely for politicians.
“We’ve come to a point in this country where the real heroes go unnoticed,” Obi remarked to a packed audience in Abuja. “People like the Esama, who have created jobs, institutions, and opportunity, should wear our highest national honours—not us politicians.”
Obi celebrated Igbinedion as a towering figure in Nigerian enterprise — a man who, through education and industry, has contributed directly to the employment of over 17,000 Nigerians, while building institutions that span aviation, banking, and education.
His remarks struck a chord in a gathering of dignitaries, statesmen, and private sector leaders. Representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the event, Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) George Akume, praised the Esama’s decades of contribution, describing him as “a living legend of Nigerian resilience, innovation, and vision.”
“The Esama’s story is a blueprint of how culture, courage, and commerce can shape a nation,” Akume said.
Peter Obi didn’t stop at words. In a rare act of personal commitment, he pledged an annual contribution to the Esama Endowment Fund for the next ten years — or longer.
“Endowment is a lifetime act,” Obi said. “This is my little token of appreciation to a man who built what politics could not — legacy.”
Also present at the event was former Senate President Bukola Saraki, who echoed the sentiment with admiration for the Esama’s foresight.
“To build a university, bank, and airline in a Nigeria of 30 years ago takes vision, courage — and faith. And beyond his business success, his humility and service to others define who he truly is,” Saraki said.
A Shift in National Priorities?
Obi’s comments are already stirring conversations across policy and civic circles, with many Nigerians questioning why honours are often reserved for political elites instead of individuals with measurable impact on the economy, youth development, and national productivity.
If the call is heeded, it could usher in a new era where entrepreneurs and nation-builders are not just celebrated in words — but immortalized in national honours.
