Full Speech: What Buhari Said About Saraki, Others Not Conferred With National Honours

President Muhammadu Buhari on Tuesday conferred National Honours on notable personalities in Nigeria, as well as some foreign nationals.

In his address at the event held at the International Conference Centre, Abuja, the Nigerian leader appealed to other citizens who were not conferred with the national honour, stating that their efforts in nation-building are appreciated but they will receive the award at the appropriate time.

CITYNEWS NIGERIA recalls that the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Special Duties and Inter-governmental Affairs, Ibiene P. Roberts, on Sunday released an amended list containing names of nominees for the national honour.

Against the previously leaked list which contained the names of 437 persons and was subsequently denied by the government, the new list contains 447 names.

It was observed that the name of former Senate President, Bukola Saraki, was not included in the amended list.

Another adjustment in the fresh list is the removal of the name of Ekiti State Governor, Kayode Fayemi for the conferment of the commander of the order of the Niger (CON) — an honour he had earlier received from the administration of former President Goodluck Jonathan.

However, President Buhari in a statement obtained byCityNews shortly after the event begged the likes of Saraki, and Fayemi, among others not awarded with the national honour today, to be patient as their turn for the award will come soon and at the right time.