Ever wondered what GCFR stands for and why it’s such a big deal? As a Nigerian, you’ve probably heard of the GCFR award, but you may not fully understand what it signifies. GCFR is the highest honor that can be conferred on any citizen in Nigeria. It is awarded to only the most outstanding citizens who have contributed extraordinarily to the progress and development of Nigeria. We’re talking game-changers, pioneers, and legends that have shaped the nation.
To be awarded the GCFR is to enter into the pantheon of Nigerian greats, joining the ranks of legends like Nnamdi Azikiwe, Obafemi Awolowo, and Olusegun Obasanjo. In this article, we’ll explore the meaning and significance of the GCFR title, discuss notable recipients, and reflect on what it takes to earn this most prestigious of Nigerian national honors.
What is Nigerian National Honour?
The Nigerian National Honours are a collection of orders and decorations bestowed upon Nigerians and friends of Nigeria each year. The GCFR rank is the equivalent of the British Order of the Garter and ranks above the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON).
They were established by the National Honors Act No. 5 of 1964, during the First Nigerian Republic, to honor Nigerians who have rendered exceptionally meritorious service to the nation.
These honours are distinct from those conferred by the country’s old chieftaincy system, which is a separate (but legally recognized) entity. National Honours are the highest honors or awards that a citizen can receive from their country for service to the nation.
Full List of Nigerian National Honour
The Honours Warrant of 1964 established two categories of the Nigerian Order of Dignity, each with four ranks of the Order, as follows:
a. Order of the Federal Republic
i. Grand Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic (GCFR)
ii. Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic (CFR)
iii. Officer of the Order of the Federal Republic (OFR)
iv. Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR)
b. Order of the Niger
i. Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON)
ii. Commander of the Order of the Niger (CON)
iii. Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON)
iv. Member of the Order of the Niger (MON)
There are two classes of Federal Republic Medals which are:
i. Federal Republic Medal – First Class
ii. Federal Republic Medal – Second Class
The statutory limitation of the number of awards to the ranks was stipulated as follows:
1. GCFR – 2 GCON – 10
2. CFR – 20 CON – 30
3. OFR – 50 OON – 100
4. MFR – 100 MON – 100
Total – 172 – 240
Grand Total 412
The Nigerian National Honour recognizes outstanding and distinguished service, heroism, achievement, or excellence in the field of human endeavor.
Brief History of the National Honours Award
The National Honours Act of 2004 (CAP N43 of the Laws of the Federation of Nigeria) established the National Honours. The act enables the President to establish by Warrant the Nigeria Order of Dignity to recognize deserving citizens who have contributed to the country’s development and progress, as well as to any human field of endeavour, with effect from October 1, 1963.
In addition, the Warrant specifies two types of Federal Republic Medals, which are the Federal Republic Medal First Class and the Federal Republic Medal Second Class. The Honours (Amendment) Warrant of 1979 established a statutory limit on the number of awards granted to the ranks.
The National Honours were revised by the Christopher Kolade Panel in 1996, which proposed that the Committee’s composition be drawn from the country’s six geopolitical zones in order to ensure equal representation, as well as a member from the Organised Private Sectors (OPS). The Committee also has some crucial representation from MDAs, which are very relevant to the selection of nominees.
GCFR Meaning: What Does GCFR Stand For?
The GCFR is Nigeria’s highest national honor. It stands for Grand Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic. The GCFR is awarded to former Nigerian Heads of State and Presidents in recognition of their exceptional service to the nation.
To earn the GCFR, a leader must have demonstrated exceptional statesmanship, leadership, vision, and sacrifice in the service of the nation as the President or Head of State. Holders of the GCFR use the post-nominal letters ‘GCFR’ after their name.
GCFR is Awarded to Who?
The GCFR is awarded to only the most deserving Nigerian citizens for their outstanding service to the nation. To be considered for the GCFR, you must meet several criteria. First, you must be someone who has rendered exceptionally meritorious service to the nation. You must have demonstrated the highest ideals of patriotism, courage, and selfless service. Recipients of the GCFR are customarily given to past Nigerian Presidents and Vice Presidents, as well as previous military heads of state and Chiefs of General Staff.
Those awarded the GCFR receive several benefits and privileges. Recipients receive a medal, a certificate signed by the president, and probably a handsome financial reward. The GCFR is indeed the highest honor a Nigerian citizen can achieve in their lifetime.
Nomination and Selection Process
The National Honours Award Committee is responsible for vetting nominations and making recommendations to the President for approval. The Committee receives nominations from a wide range of sources, including government ministries and agencies, non-governmental organizations, socio-cultural groups, and members of the public.
The selection of GCFR award recipients is a rigorous process based on clearly defined criteria to ensure only the most deserving candidates are selected. Nominees are evaluated based on their:
- Outstanding and exceptional public service to the nation
- Contributions to the economic, social, and political development of Nigeria
- Service and sacrifices for the cause of democracy, good governance, national unity, and progress.
In summary, the GCFR is the highest honor in Nigeria, reserved for citizens who have distinguished themselves through extraordinary accomplishments and contributions to the nation. It is a prestigious award that recognizes and celebrates model citizens and leaders.
What is the Presentation Ceremony Like?
The GCFR is presented in an elaborate investiture ceremony. The President, in an official capacity, presents the award to the recipient in the presence of top government officials, dignitaries, and the recipient’s family and friends. The event is marked by pomp and pageantry, including a military parade, cultural dances, and other performances. It is indeed a momentous and joyous occasion.
Notable Recipients of the GCFR Honor
The GCFR is Nigeria’s highest honor, awarded to only the most notable citizens for their immense contributions. Many famous Nigerians from all walks of life have been bestowed this prestigious award.
- Akihito
- Obafemi Awolowo
- Nnamdi Azikiwe
- Muammar Gaddafi
- Haile Selassie
- Goodluck Jonathan
- Nelson Mandela
- Olusegun Obasanjo
- Shehu Shagari
The GCFR award is a prestigious honor reserved only for those who have made the greatest contributions to Nigeria’s progress, culture, and international renown. Its notable recipients represent the best of Nigeria’s leaders, thinkers, artists, and change-makers.
Conclusion
The GCFR is Nigeria’s highest national honour. As the acronym suggests, it stands for Grand Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic. This prestigious award is conferred on only former heads of state or presidents. It recognizes and celebrates the immense contributions of former leaders to nation-building. The benefits and entitlements that come with it allow recipients to live out the rest of their lives in dignity.