The Committee for the Defence of Human Rights (CDHR) has urged the Federal Government and the National Assembly to reconsider any proposed merger of the Nigerian National Merit Award (NNMA) with the National Honours Award, emphasizing that both institutions serve distinct and vital purposes in the nation’s development.

In a statement released on Friday and signed by the National Secretary of CDHR, Mr. Gerald O. Katchy, the group cautioned that merging the two honours could compromise the credibility and integrity of the NNMA, which is widely regarded as Nigeria’s highest academic distinction.

“The NNMA represents Nigeria’s commitment to the promotion of intellect, research, and innovation,” Katchy stated. “Combining it with the National Honours Award risks politicizing the merit-based process that defines the NNMA.”

The CDHR called for increased support for both institutions, including enhanced funding and visibility, but insisted that their separate identities be preserved to maintain their credibility.

The statement reads in part:

“After a detailed review of the mandates and contributions of both institutions, we join scholars, civil society advocates, and concerned citizens in affirming our strong support for their continued independence.”

The group noted that while both awards are prestigious, they fulfill different roles:

The Nigerian National Merit Award (NNMA), established in 1979, is a scholarly recognition conferred solely on the basis of intellectual, research, and academic excellence. Recipients are selected through a rigorous peer-review process, independent of political influence.

The National Honours Award, instituted in 1964, recognizes broader contributions to national development in areas such as politics, business, sports, and public service, and is conferred by the President.

“The NNMA’s credibility is grounded in its scholarly rigor and independence,” the statement said. “Merging it with a broader honours system could erode that foundation and discourage excellence in the academic and scientific communities.”

CDHR further stressed the importance of aligning with global best practices, where merit-based academic awards are maintained independently of political or civil service recognitions.

“Preserving the independence of the NNMA is not only a matter of institutional integrity but a national responsibility to uphold standards that inspire future generations,” Katchy added.

The organization concluded with a call to action directed at the Federal Government and National Assembly:

Retain the NNMA and National Honours Award as distinct institutions

Safeguard the independence and scholarly integrity of the NNMA

Enhance funding and recognition for both awards without bureaucratic merger

“These honours symbolize the values we choose to elevate as a nation. Let us protect their individual purpose and prestige for the sake of Nigeria’s academic excellence and national growth,” the statement concluded.