President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has conferred the prestigious Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON) on Sir Gilbert Chagoury, a distinguished Nigerian entrepreneur and philanthropist.

The award is one of Nigeria’s highest national honours and is given in recognition of individuals whose contributions have had a lasting and positive impact on the nation.

The Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger award, which is the second-highest national honour in Nigeria, can only be awarded by the president and it typically awarded to Vice Presidents, Senate Presidents, Chief Justices, and other distinguished figures for exceptional service, with recipients including prominent leaders and influential citizens like Aliko Dangote.

The news of the award given to Sir Gilbert Chagoury was publicly celebrated on social media by prominent businessman Femi Otedola, who described Chagoury as a mentor, friend, and role model. In his message, Otedola praised the recipient’s visionary leadership and landmark contributions across Nigeria, calling the honour a well-deserved recognition of his work in business, philanthropy, and community development.

According to the official Instrument of Conferment of National Honour, the award was granted “in recognition of outstanding virtues and services to Nigeria,” reflecting Sir Chagoury’s decades-long engagement in initiatives that have positively shaped various sectors. Over the years, he has been involved in real estate development, infrastructure projects, and social welfare programs, making him a notable figure in Nigeria’s private sector and philanthropic circles.

The GCON is traditionally reserved for individuals who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, integrity, and national service, and it places Chagoury among an elite group of Nigerians who have received such recognition. Observers have highlighted that the award not only honours his personal achievements but also signals the government’s appreciation for entrepreneurial leadership that drives national growth.

For Sir Chagoury, this recognition comes as a culmination of decades of dedication to both business excellence and humanitarian efforts. His work has helped create jobs, improve infrastructure, and support vulnerable communities across the country, establishing a legacy that continues to inspire emerging entrepreneurs and philanthropists.

The conferment has been followed by congratulations from several prominent Nigerians and business leaders who have acknowledged Chagoury’s influence and the significance of the national honour. Many see this as a moment that shows the importance of private sector contributions to national development and highlights the role of visionary leadership in shaping Nigeria’s future.

Congratulations, Sir Gilbert Chagoury!

This is truly well deserved.