President Bola Tinubu has conferred the country’s second-highest national honour of Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON) on Lebanese-Nigerian businessman, Gilbert Antoine Chagoury, in recognition of his “outstanding virtues” and contributions to national development.
The president invoked powers under Section 1(4) of the National Honours Act to bestow the honour on Chagoury.
“In exercise of the powers vested in me under section 1(4) of the National Honours Act, I, BOLA AHMED TINUBU, President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, in recognition of your outstanding virtues and in appreciation of your services to our country, Nigeria, HEREBY award to you the title, dignity and all the privileges of Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON),” the letter read in part.
Nigeria businessman Femi Otedola in his congratulatory message on X on Monday, hailed the recognition as “well deserved,” describing Chagoury as a visionary whose leadership has inspired generations
“Your life is a masterclass in vision, discipline, and steady excellence,” Otedola wrote. “From Banana Island to Eko Atlantic City, your work speaks in landmarks, jobs, and lasting impact. Your leadership has inspired generations of Nigerians to think bigger and act bolder.”
“This honour is truly well deserved. I celebrate you today and always.” He added
Chagoury, born in Lagos to Lebanese immigrant parents, co-founded the Chagoury Group in 1971 alongside his brother, Ronald Chagoury. The industrial conglomerate has diversified interests in construction, real estate, flour milling, water bottling and purification, glass manufacturing, insurance, hospitality, telecommunications, IT, catering and international financing.
