Authorities in the US state of Georgia proclaimed Nnamdi Kanu an honorary citizen. They also designated him a goodwill ambassador. This declaration occurred while Kanu remained in detention in Nigeria.
The Proclamation
Brad Raffensperger, Georgia’s Secretary of State, issued the official proclamation on January 16, 2026. He signed the document at the State Capitol in Atlanta.
The proclamation stated, “I, Brad Raffensperger, Secretary of State of the State of Georgia, do hereby proclaim Nnamdi Okwu Kanu as an Honorary Georgia Citizen.”
It continued, “May this Outstanding Citizen be accorded every courtesy as a Goodwill Ambassador from Georgia in his travels to other states, to nations beyond the borders of the United States of America, or wherever he may hereafter travel or reside. Thank you for your service to our state.”
Additionally, the document bore the seal of the office. It marked the formal recognition of Kanu’s status.
Presentation Ceremony
State Representative Gab Okoye presented the certificate on January 23, 2026. The ceremony unfolded in Milledgeville, one of Georgia’s historic cities.
Ambassador Uche Ajulu-Okeke accepted the honor on Kanu’s behalf. She described him as “Africa’s most famous political prisoner and global prisoner of conscience.” Furthermore the event drew attention to Kanu’s international profile. Participants highlighted his contributions despite his challenges.
Background on Nnamdi Kanu
Nnamdi Kanu founded and led the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). The group advocated for self-determination in Nigeria’s southeast region. Authorities arrested Kanu in Kenya in 2021. They extradited him to Nigeria during President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration.
A Federal High Court in Abuja tried him. Justice James Omotosho convicted Kanu of treasonable offenses. Moreover the court sentenced him to life imprisonment. Officials held him in Sokoto prison.
Kanu denied the charges. He challenged prosecutors to specify the violated law. IPOB contended that the trial relied on a non-existent law. They announced plans to appeal the decision.
Significance of the Honor
The Georgia proclamation underscored global interest in Kanu’s situation. It positioned him as a symbol of advocacy. Moreover the designation encouraged others to extend courtesies to him. This applied to potential travels or residences.
However Kanu’s detention continued. The honor did not alter his legal status in Nigeria. In addition, supporters viewed the recognition as validation. It amplified calls for his release.
In conclusion, the event bridged Kanu’s activism with international diplomacy. It reflected ongoing efforts to address his case.
