YESTERDAY Monday, 29th September 2014 was another day of pomp and pageantry at the International Conference Centre, Abuja, as President Goodluck Jonathan presented the 2014 edition of National Honours to no fewer than 304 recipients.

The various grades of honours were distributed to the high and mighty, ranging from politicians to public servants, elected personnel, police and military top shots, business leaders, academicians, sportsmen and women and what have you. However, this year’s edition was a little more refreshing as four Nigerians of humble standing who during the past year were identified by the media for their extraordinary feats were also honoured.These included two junior police officers, a taxi driver who returned money left in his cab by a customer, and a steward who has served many presidents over the years.

President Goodluck Jonathan (L), presenting a ‘Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR)’ Award To A Taxi Driver, Mr Imeh Usuah, who returned the sum of N18m (Eighteen Million Naira) forgotten in his car by a customer, in Abuja on Monday (29/9/14).

As much as we recognise the importance of giving honour to whom it is due, we have always advocated that such honours  be given to persons when they are no longer in active service. The logic behind this is to thank them for their services to the nation in their heydays and also inspire those still in service to greater efforts, knowing that the nation will always ensure that “the labour of our heroes past shall never be in vain”.

Giving people national honours when they are still very active, especially immediately they attain certain ranks in the public service makes it look like perks of office. The danger is that, as we have seen repeatedly, many of the awardees of our national honours often find themselves mixed up with scandals and allegations of mind-boggling acts of corruption.

However, we are glad that those in charge of the honours this year took the pains to read the papers and take along some names of ordinary Nigerians who performed uncommon and inspirational acts of service, loyalty to the country and demonstration of honesty. More of such people should feature in the National Honours Roll from next year, while less of sharing the honours among friends and political associates should be allowed. This does make it possible for those who are not in the good books of the Presidency to benefit from an honours list that belongs to all of us.

Meanwhile, to all deserving winners, we extend our warm felicitations and urge them to be spurred by the gesture to redouble their efforts in taking Nigeria to a greater height.