At the public presentation of the book “The Chronicles of a Legend” in honour of Chief Gabriel Osawaru Igbinedion, held Tuesday at the Yar’Adua Centre in Abuja, former Anambra State governor and Labour Party presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, delivered a strong message about Nigeria’s national honours system.
Obi, known for his blunt and reform-minded commentary, declared that prestigious national honours such as GCFR (Grand Commander of the Federal Republic) and GCON (Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger) should no longer be reserved exclusively for political figures. Instead, he argued, the nation must begin to recognise and celebrate entrepreneurs and productive citizens like Igbinedion, who have made significant contributions to Nigeria’s development.
“GCFR and GCON honours should be given to entrepreneurs, not politicians,” Obi said firmly, drawing strong applause from the audience.
According to him, Nigeria has for too long rewarded those in power rather than those who create opportunities, jobs, and infrastructure. Obi noted that Chief Igbinedion, the Esama of Benin Kingdom, was a trailblazer in education, transport, and banking — fields where his impact has been both lasting and measurable.
“Who is representing the Ministry of Education here?” Obi asked rhetorically. “He built the first private university in Nigeria. Who is here from the Ministry of Transport? He pioneered private airline operations. He was also among the first to receive a private banking licence — that’s nation building!”
Obi highlighted that Igbinedion once employed over 17,000 people across various industries, a feat many public office holders have not achieved. He used this as a basis to challenge the nation to reassess how it rewards excellence.
“If one man can employ 17,000 people, imagine what 8,000 such men could do. But we only have about a thousand functional industries in Nigeria today. That’s why we’re suffering unemployment,” he lamented.
Calling for a cultural shift in how national figures are recognised, Obi urged the government to direct awards and honours to those who create real impact — in education, enterprise, and community development.
“Now that we have the opportunity, we have to change the way we honour people,” he added. “The GCFR and GCON should not be reserved for political patronage. Let them go to those who build the nation.”
He also announced a personal commitment to sustain a financial endowment to support educational causes inspired by Chief Igbinedion’s legacy.
The event was attended by dignitaries, including former heads of state, state governors, and members of the diplomatic and business communities. “The Chronicles of a Legend” details the life, vision, and impact of Chief Gabriel Igbinedion, whose pioneering role in private enterprise and philanthropy has made him one of Nigeria’s most enduring figures.
Peter Obi’s remarks served as both a celebration of Igbinedion’s achievements and a challenge to the country to do better in recognising true nation builders.