King Charles III of the United Kingdom has honoured Nigeria’s Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr Wale Edun, with the rank of Honorary Commander of the Royal Victorian Order, in recognition of his outstanding service, particularly in youth development.
The honour, announced on Tuesday, acknowledges Edun’s long-standing involvement with the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award, a global initiative focused on empowering young people with leadership skills, discipline, and character development.
According to reports by ARISE News, the award places Edun among a small group of Nigerians who have received the rare royal distinction. He joins notable figures such as former Commonwealth Secretary-General, Chief Emeka Anyaoku, who has also been honoured with the Royal Victorian Order.
An official citation released from the Central Chancery of the Orders of Knighthood at St James’s Palace, London, confirmed Edun’s appointment, noting his previous role as a Trustee of the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award Foundation.
Reacting to the development, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu congratulated Edun, describing the recognition as well-deserved. In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the President praised Edun’s dedication to youth empowerment and national development.
The President noted that thousands of Nigerian youths currently benefit from the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award programme, adding that the royal honour aligns with the administration’s commitment to youth development, opportunity creation, and national renewal.
President Tinubu further reaffirmed his government’s resolve to continue investing in initiatives that prepare young Nigerians to become future leaders.
