National Honors Award – Basic 6 Civic Education Lesson Note (First Term)

Learning Objectives: By the end of the lesson, pupils should be able to:

1. Explain national honors awards
2. Mention the types of national honor awards (OON, CON, GCON, etc.)
3. Describe the types of national honor awards

Lesson Content:

What are National Honor Awards? National honor awards are special recognitions given by the government to citizens who have made outstanding contributions to the development of Nigeria. These awards celebrate excellence, patriotism, and service to the nation.

Types of National Honor Awards:

1. GCON – Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (highest civilian award)

1. GCFR – Grand Commander of the Federal Republic (for Presidents)

1. CON – Commander of the Order of the Niger

1. OON – Officer of the Order of the Niger
2. MFR – Member of the Federal Republic
3. MON – Member of the Order of the Niger
4. OFR – Officer of the Federal Republic

Description of Awards:

• These awards are presented annually on Nigeria’s Independence Day (October 1st)
• Recipients wear special medals and ribbons
• The awards recognize achievements in various fields like politics, education, sports, business, and community service

Multiple Choice Questions:

1. What does GCON stand for? a) General Commander of Nigeria b) Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger c) Great Commander of Nigeria d) Government Commander of the Order 
2. When are national honor awards usually presented? a) New Year’s Day b) Democracy Day c) Independence Day d) Children’s Day 
3. Which is the highest civilian award in Nigeria? a) CON b) OON c) GCON d) MFR 
4. National honor awards are given to recognize: a) Only politicians b) Outstanding contributions to Nigeria c) Only military personnel d) Only business people 
5. What does OFR mean? a) Officer of the Federal Republic b) Order of the Federal Republic c) Official of the Federal Republic d) Organization of the Federal Republic 

Answers: 1-b, 2-c, 3-c, 4-b, 5-a

Homework:

1. Draw and color the Nigerian flag
2. Write down three reasons why people receive national honor awards
3. Ask your parents or guardians if they know anyone who has received a national honor award