Historic Honour: King Charles III confers prestigious Royal Award on Nigeria’s Finance Minister Wale Edun
In a landmark moment for Nigeria–United Kingdom relations, England’s King Charles III has appointed Nigeria’s Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, as a Grand Commander of the Royal Victorian Order (CVO).
The honour, conferred on Tuesday, recognises Mr. Edun’s distinguished service and personal contributions in engagements involving the British monarch, underscoring his role in strengthening diplomatic, economic and institutional ties between Nigeria and the United Kingdom.
With the appointment, Edun becomes the first Nigerian in decades to receive the prestigious Royal Victorian Order, following in the footsteps of former Commonwealth Secretary-General, Chief Emeka Anyaoku, who was similarly honoured. The Royal Victorian Order is a unique distinction bestowed personally by the reigning monarch to individuals who have rendered exceptional service to the Crown.
Observers describe the recognition as both historic and symbolic, reflecting Nigeria’s growing relevance in global economic and diplomatic circles, as well as Edun’s influence in international finance and policy engagement. Since assuming office, the finance minister has been at the forefront of Nigeria’s economic reforms, global investment outreach, and high-level engagements with international partners.
The award has drawn warm reactions across political and diplomatic circles in Nigeria, with many describing it as a moment of national pride and an affirmation of the country’s renewed visibility on the global stage.
The Royal Victorian Order, established in 1896 by Queen Victoria, remains one of the highest personal honours of the British monarchy, reserved for individuals whose service directly impacts the Sovereign.
