President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has conferred one of Nigeria’s highest national honours, the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON) on Lebanese-Nigerian industrialist Gilbert Chagoury, recognising his longstanding contributions to the country’s economic development and nation-building. The honour was conveyed through an official Instrument of Conferment of National Honour dated 8 January 2026 and publicly announced on Monday, January 19.
The GCON is Nigeria’s second-highest national honour, ranking just below the Grand Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic (GCFR), and is typically awarded to individuals who have demonstrated extraordinary service and impact. In a citation, President Tinubu said the award was made in exercise of his powers under the National Honours Act, highlighting Chagoury’s “outstanding virtues” and appreciation for his service to Nigeria.
Chagoury, a prominent entrepreneur who co-founded the Chagoury Group in 1971, has been involved in major commercial and infrastructure projects across the country. His business interests span construction, real estate, hospitality and industrial ventures, and he has played a visible role in urban development, including notable projects in Lagos and beyond.
The conferment drew praise from prominent figures in the Nigerian private sector, including billionaire Femi Otedola, who described Chagoury as a mentor and visionary whose work has helped shape sectors of the national economy and infrastructure landscape. The presidential honour underscores the administration’s recognition of contributions from economic actors and business leaders whose efforts are seen as advancing national growth.
