Tinubu, Akpabio, 11 governors, others listed among ICONS of Nigeria’s fourth republic

As Nigeria marks 26 years of uninterrupted democratic governance, OrderPaper Nigeria has unveiled a landmark initiative, ICONS of the Fourth Republic, aimed at honouring outstanding political leaders who have significantly shaped the country’s democratic and governance landscape.

The ICONS programme celebrates individuals whose service in both the legislative and executive arms of government has left lasting impacts on Nigeria’s development.

The project will culminate in the unveiling of a “Book of Records” and a digital archive in August 2025, capturing 25 years of democratic transitions and achievements.

Among the top nominees for the premier edition are President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and First Lady Remi Tinubu.

11 state governors, 21 senators, 22 cabinet ministers, and a wide array of political veterans also make the list.

Governors listed include Ahmadu Fintiri (Adamawa), Bassey Otu (Cross River), Mohammed Bago (Niger), Sheriff Oborevwori (Delta), Bala Mohammed (Bauchi), Douye Diri (Bayelsa), Hope Uzodimma (Imo), Ademola Adeleke (Osun), Uba Sani (Kaduna), Francis Nwifuru (Ebonyi), and Monday Okpebholo (Edo).

Notable senators on the list include Orji Uzor Kalu, Aminu Tambuwal, Adams Oshiomhole, Enyinnaya Abaribe, Gbenga Daniel, and Abba Moro. Hon. Julius Ihonvbere, the Leader of the House of Representatives, also features.

The initiative also recognises 22 members of President Tinubu’s cabinet who have legislative experience.

Prominent among them are Femi Gbajabiamila, Chief of Staff to the President, SGF George Akume, and ministers such as David Umahi, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, Ibrahim Gaidam, John Owan Enoh, and Abubakar Bagudu.

Heads of agencies and notable political figures, including Sen. Ken Nnamani, Rt. Hon. Yakubu Dogara, Abike Dabiri-Erewa, and Hon. Dakuku Peterside, are also included.

Former officials like Sen. Bukola Saraki, Sen. Rabiu Kwankwaso, Rt. Hon. Chibuike Amaechi, and Sen. Anyim Pius Anyim are part of the prestigious list.

The ICONS initiative builds upon OrderPaper’s FLEX (Facility for Legislative Executive Exchange) report published in 2024, which highlighted President Tinubu’s record of appointing the highest number of former legislators into his cabinet.

ICONS aims to preserve the legacies of leaders who have transitioned between the legislature and executive roles and have contributed meaningfully to governance.

Highlighting examples of such transitions, the report notes Sen. Godswill Akpabio’s journey from state commissioner to governor, senator, minister, and now Senate President.

Similarly, Sen. Tambuwal, Sen. Kwankwaso, and Sen. Orji Kalu exemplify the FLEX phenomenon.

Speaking on the initiative, Oke Epia, CEO of OrderPaper Nigeria and convener of ICONS, described it as a non-partisan, data-driven effort to honour “leaders whose work has deepened our democratic experience and strengthened national development.”

“This is more than a celebration—it is a national chronicle of excellence, service, and leadership,” Epia stated, emphasizing the importance of preserving the legacies of those who have shaped Nigeria’s Fourth Republic.

The Book of Records and accompanying digital archive will be formally presented at an exclusive award and gala night in August 2025, where the legacies of the inductees will be showcased to the nation.