US State, Georgia Grants Nnamdi Kanu Honorary Citizenship 

US State, Georgia Grants Nnamdi Kanu Honorary Citizenship

U.S. State of Georgia has granted honorary citizenship to Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, the incarcerated leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB).

Announced on January 23, 2026, the honor was formalized through a proclamation signed by Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger. This development draws fresh international attention to Kanu’s long-standing legal battles and his advocacy for a separate state in Nigeria.

The official proclamation, dated January 16, 2026, designates Nnamdi Okwu Kanu as an “Honorary Georgia Citizen.” The document further recognizes him as a Goodwill Ambassador, urging that he be extended formal courtesy and recognized as an outstanding citizen during his future travels.

This title marks a symbolic diplomatic gesture from the American state toward the separatist leader.

Uche Ajulu, a former Nigerian Ambassador to South Africa, received the document in the United States on Kanu’s behalf. The news was later circulated by the leader’s younger brother, Prince Nnamdi Kanu, who shared the proclamation on social media.

Supporters of the IPOB movement view this recognition as a major victory for their leader’s global profile and legitimacy.

Despite this international honor, Kanu remains in Nigerian custody serving a life sentence at the Sokoto Prison. He was convicted on charges of terrorism and treasonable felony, a verdict his legal team continues to contest.

His ongoing imprisonment remains a highly sensitive and polarizing issue within Nigerian politics and the international community.

The timing of the honor coincides with recent “solidarity rallies” organized by IPOB members across Nigeria’s South-East.

These demonstrations were held to support global figures like U.S. President Donald Trump and to demand Kanu’s unconditional release from prison. Proponents argue that his freedom is essential for restoring peace and stability to the region.

This honorary citizenship adds a new layer of complexity to the friction between the Nigerian government and IPOB. While the gesture is primarily symbolic, it highlights the persistent global interest in Kanu’s human rights and legal status.

For his followers, the proclamation serves as a significant validation of their cause and increases diplomatic pressure on Nigerian authorities.