The Federal Government has officially clarified how Nigerians, government agencies, and the media should address President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The clarification came after repeated mistakes appeared in public statements, reports, and official documents.
According to the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF), the correct title is, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR meaning Grand Commander of the Federal Republic, one of Nigeria’s highest national honours.
Government officials explained that many people used the President’s title incorrectly in recent months as a result, the Presidency stepped in to promote uniform communication across ministries, departments, agencies, and media platforms.
Nigeria reserves the GCFR honour for Presidents and Heads of State. The title reflects the country’s highest level of national recognition and leadership responsibility. Therefore, officials want all public institutions to use it correctly in formal communication.
The Tinubu administration has continued to promote order and consistency in official government communication. In addition, the Presidency wants public officers and institutions to follow proper protocol when referring to constitutional offices.
Many Nigerians reacted to the clarification on social media, while some people praised the move, others questioned why the government focused on official titles during a period of economic and political challenges. However, supporters argued that proper state protocol remains important.
Political observers believe the move goes beyond correcting a title saying that the government wants to strengthen institutional respect and maintain a clear official identity as political activities gradually increase ahead of 2027 elections.
