President Muhammadu Buhari has explained why National Honours were conferred on 450 Nigerians and foreigners at the International Conference Centre (ICC) Abuja.
Buhari said that citizens and foreigners were conferred National Awards on Tuesday because they’ve contributed to national development and deserve to be encouraged and appreciated.
He added that the awardees have distinguished themselves in serving the nation and humanity.
The President explained that the screening and selection of nominees followed established broad criteria under the National Honours Act CAP.N43 of the Laws of the Federation of Nigeria 2004.
They include but are not limited to: “consistent and meaningful participation in community and/or national development; rendering unsolicited, selfless and philanthropic services to humanity; outstanding sacrifice in defence of a cause popularly adjudged to be positive, relevant and beneficial to the nation and community.”
Other criteria listed by the President for selecting the recipients are:
‘‘Distinct act of bravery in the protection and/or defence of national interest, public peace, the safety of life and property.
‘‘Remarkable achievement in any field of expertise where the person’s activities in that field have made significant contributions to the attainment of national goals and objectives.
‘‘Immense contributions towards the uplift of community, state, nation and/or humanity through achievements by way of inventions and bringing outstanding honour and glory to the state through personal dedication and patriotic commitment. Service with integrity is also a basis for the selection process.’’
