King Charles honours Wale Edun with rare Royal Victorian Order

King Charles III of the United Kingdom has named Wale Edun, Nigeria’s minister of finance and coordinating minister of the economy, a Commander of the Royal Victorian Order (CVO), in recognition of his distinguished service, particularly his longstanding contributions to youth development through the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award. The honour, announced on December 30, 2025, places Edun in an exclusive group of Nigerians so recognised, underscoring the rarity and prestige of the award.

Edun becomes the first Nigerian to receive the distinction since former Commonwealth Secretary-General, Chief Emeka Anyaoku, was similarly honoured, highlighting the significance of the recognition within international and Commonwealth circles. The Royal Victorian Order is a personal honour bestowed by the British monarch to acknowledge exceptional service rendered directly to the Crown or through related global initiatives.

According to the official citation contained in the gazetted material, the appointment was made by the Central Chancery of the Orders of Knighthood at St. James’s Palace, London. The citation read in part: “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.”

The honour recognises Edun’s sustained involvement with the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award, a global youth development programme established to support young people in building character, leadership skills, and a sense of responsibility through service, adventure, and personal development. In Nigeria, the programme has benefited thousands of young people, aligning closely with national priorities around youth empowerment and leadership development.

Reacting to the development, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu congratulated the minister, describing the recognition as exceptional and well deserved. In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, the President noted that the appointment reflected Edun’s commitment to youth development and international service.

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. It added that Edun was honoured in recognition of his longstanding work with the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award, a programme that continues to make a tangible impact on young people across Nigeria and globally.

The President further described Edun as a pivotal member of his cabinet, stressing that the honour aligns with his administration’s emphasis on youth empowerment, opportunity, and national renewal. He commended the minister’s industry and dedication, while reaffirming the government’s commitment to developing Nigerian youth as leaders of today and tomorrow.

Edun’s career spans decades of public service, finance, and international development, with roles across government and global institutions. The Royal Victorian Order adds to a record of service that bridges national policy-making and international youth-focused initiatives, while also reviving memories of the rare honour last bestowed on Chief Emeka Anyaoku during his tenure as head of the Commonwealth.

The recognition further reinforces Nigeria’s visibility in international service and youth development efforts, highlighting the role of Nigerian leaders in advancing global development goals.

Culled from Business Day