Nigeria: 2Baba Idibia, Burna Boy earn national honours

The artists were honoured by President Muhammadu Buhari during an investiture ceremony at the State House in Abuja on Tuesday for “distinguishing themselves in the service of the nation and humanity”.

Instituted during Nigeria’s first republic in 1964 and presented annually, Nigerian National Honours are bestowed upon Nigerians and friends of the country who have distinguished themselves in various fields of endeavour and in service to the country.

The artists were part of about 450 people honoured drawn from various sectors of Nigerian society.

Buhari noted that this year’s honourees were selected based on attributes such as selflessness, philanthropy and remarkable achievements in any field of expertise toward the attainment of national goals and objectives. Other criteria include distinct acts of bravery in the protection and/or defence of national interest and meaningful contributions towards the upliftment of the community, state, nation and/or humanity, among others.

Teni the Entertainer and 2Baba Idibia received the Member of the Order of Niger honour, while Burna Boy was named a Member of the Order of the Federal Republic.

“He along with other artists have repositioned the Nigerian entertainment industry and placed it on the global map,” Buhari said of Burna Boy. “At the just concluded Dubai Expo 2020, Nigeria’s pavilion was a hive of activity as our musicians entertained guests from around the world. Citizens who contribute to national development deserve to be encouraged and appreciated.”