King Charles III of the United Kingdom has named Wale Edun, Nigeria's Coordinating Minister of Finance and Economy, a Commander of the Royal Victorian Order (CVO) for his distinguished service, particularly his long-term contribution to youth development through the Duke of Edinburgh's International Award. The honour, announced on December 30, 2025, places Edun among an elite group of Nigerians, underscoring the rarity and prestige of this award.
Edun becomes the first Nigerian to receive this distinction since former Commonwealth Secretary-General, Chief Emeka Anyaoku was similarly honoured, which highlights the importance of recognition within international and Commonwealth circles. The Royal Victorian Order is a personal honor awarded by the British monarch to acknowledge exceptional service rendered directly to the Crown or through related global initiatives.
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According to the official quote included in the gazetted material, the appointment was made by the Central Chancery of the Order of Knighthood at St James's Palace, London. The citation read in part: “The King has been pleased to make the following promotions and appointments to the Royal Victorian Order (CVO) as Honorary Commander: Adebayo Olawale Edun, lately Trustee, The Duke of Edinburgh's International Award Foundation.”
The honor recognizes Edun's ongoing involvement with the Duke of Edinburgh's International Award, a global youth development program established to support young people by building character, leadership skills and a sense of responsibility through service, adventure and personal development. In Nigeria, the program has benefited thousands of youth, closely aligned with national priorities around youth empowerment and leadership development.
Reacting to the development, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu congratulated the Minister, describing the recognition as extraordinary and well-deserved. In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, the President said the appointment reflects Edun's commitment to youth development and international service.
“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu congratulates the Coordinating Minister of Finance and Economy, Mr Wale Edun, on his appointment to the Royal Victorian Order by His Majesty King Charles III,” the statement said. It added that Edun was awarded the Duke of Edinburgh's International Award for his long-term work with a program that is having a tangible impact on youth across Nigeria and globally.
The President described Edun as a valued member of his Cabinet, stressing that the honor is in line 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 youths as leaders of today and tomorrow.
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Edun's career spans decades, with roles in government and global institutions across public service, finance and international development. The Royal Victorian Order commemorates a record of service that links national policy-making and international youth-focused initiatives, while also reviving memories of a rare honor bestowed upon Chief Emeka Anyoku during his tenure as Head of the Commonwealth.
This recognition further strengthens Nigeria's visibility in international service and youth development efforts, highlighting the role of Nigerian leaders in advancing global development goals.
