By Joshua Tosin Ogunsakin 
This article will explore the complete list of Nigerian national honours and shed light on what each represents.
1. Grand Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic (GCFR)
It is the highest national honour in Nigeria, and the President of Nigeria have mostly held it.
During the second republic, President Shehu Shagari conferred the honour on Chief Obafemi Awolowo for his outstanding service to Nigeria before and after independence.
In 2018, President Muhammadu Buhari announced the conferment of the GCFR honour on the late Moshood Kashimawo Abiola, the presumed winner of the June 12, 1993, election.
Similarly, President Buhari, again in 2023, conferred the current President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the same honour four days before his inauguration.
2. Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON)
This is Nigeria’s second-highest national honour and has been mostly bestowed on the Vice President, the Senate President and the Chief Justice.
However, there have been exceptions where the award is conferred on individuals who have been exceptional in international politics and the diplomatic space.
A 2022 recipient, Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, is the Director General of the World Trade Organisation, and the Nigerian-British Amina J. Mohammed is the Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations.
3. Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic (CFR)
This is an award that is bestowed upon past and present Speakers of the House of Representatives, top cabinet members of the national executive council, military generals, past and present police chiefs and traditional rulers.
4. Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON)
In recent times, state governors, lawmakers, senior advocates and some top cabinet members of the national executive council are being conferred this title.
5. Officer of the Order of the Federal Republic (OFR)
The Order of the Federal Republic (OFR) is the highest civilian national honour in Nigeria.
It is awarded to individuals who have rendered exceptional service to the nation in various capacities.
Recipients of this honour have demonstrated outstanding leadership, contributed to national development, and promoted unity and peace.
6. Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON)
The Order of the Niger (OON) is the second-highest civilian national honour in Nigeria.
It is awarded to individuals who have made significant contributions in various fields, such as academia, business, the arts, and culture.
Recipients of this honour have distinguished themselves through excellence, innovation, and national impact.
7. Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR)
The Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) is a national honour awarded to individuals who have shown remarkable service and commitment to Nigeria.
This honour is often conferred on individuals who have excelled in public service, governance, and community development.
8. Member of the Order of the Niger (MON)
The Member of the Order of the Niger is a national honour bestowed on individuals who have made notable contributions to the nation.
Recognises their achievements and positive influence in their respective fields, including sports, entertainment, journalism, and social advocacy.