Trending 
King Charles III of the United Kingdom has appointed Nigeria’s Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr Wale Edun, as a Commander of the Royal Victorian Order in recognition of his distinguished service, particularly his long-term contributions to youth development through the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award.
ARISE News reported that the announcement was made on Tuesday, placing Edun among a select group of Nigerians to receive the rare honour. He joins notable recipients such as former Commonwealth Secretary-General, Chief Emeka Anyaoku.
The appointment underscores the prestige of the Royal Victorian Order, which the British monarch personally confers on individuals who render exceptional service to the Crown and the Commonwealth, with a strong focus on advancing international youth empowerment.
An official citation published in the gazette stated:
“The King has been graciously pleased to make the following promotions in, and appointments to, the Royal Victorian Order (C.V.O.) to be an Honorary Commander: Adebayo Olawale Edun, lately Trustee, The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award Foundation.”
Reacting to the honour, President Bola Tinubu congratulated Edun, describing the recognition as well deserved. His message was conveyed in a statement signed by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr Bayo Onanuga.
“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu congratulates Mr Wale Edun, Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, on his appointment to the Royal Victorian Order by His Majesty King Charles III,” the statement said.
The President noted that the honour acknowledges Edun’s long-standing work with the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award, a global youth development initiative aimed at building character, skills and leadership capacity among young people.
The statement added that thousands of Nigerian youths currently benefit from the programme, describing the royal honour as consistent with the administration’s emphasis on youth empowerment and national renewal.
President Tinubu further commended Edun’s dedication and reaffirmed his government’s commitment to developing Nigerian youths as leaders of today and the future.
