Tinubu Honors Businessman Gilbert Chagoury With GCON National Award

President Bola Tinubu has bestowed the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON) on Lebanese-Nigerian businessman Gilbert Chagoury in recognition of his contributions to Nigeria. The honour, which ranks as Nigeria’s second-highest national award after the Grand Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic (GCFR), was conveyed through an Instrument of Conferment dated January 8, 2026. According to Tinubu, the award was made under the powers granted to him by the National Honours Act, citing Chagoury’s “outstanding virtues” and service to the country. “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 to have, and enjoy title, dignity and all the privileges of Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON),” the president said. Chagoury, who was born in Nigeria to Lebanese immigrant parents, is a prominent industrialist and co-founder of the Chagoury Group, established in Lagos in 1971. The conglomerate operates across several sectors, including construction, real estate, hospitality, glass manufacturing and flour milling. He is a major financier of the Eko Atlantic City project through South Energyx Nigeria Limited, a subsidiary of the Chagoury Group. In addition, Hitech Construction Company Ltd, which is linked to the group, is handling the ongoing Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway project. Chagoury rose to national prominence in the 1990s and was known for his close ties to the late military ruler, Sani Abacha, a period during which his business interests reportedly expanded.

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Troost-Ekong Thanks President Tinubu After Receiving MFR Honour

Former Super Eagles captain William Troost-Ekong has expressed deep gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Federal Government after receiving his national honour certificate, describing the recognition as one of the most significant milestones of his life. Troost-Ekong captained Nigeria to the final of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, where the Super Eagles earned a silver medal following a tight 2–1 defeat to host nation Côte d’Ivoire. In honour of the team’s dedication and performance, President Tinubu awarded national honours to players and officials, with Troost-Ekong being conferred the Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR). The defender revealed that he received his official certificate a day after the announcement in Fez, Morocco, where the Super Eagles are preparing for the 2025 AFCON. Taking to social media, Troost-Ekong described the moment as deeply emotional and a source of immense pride for both him and his family. “I am truly honoured and grateful to His Excellency, the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, for conferring on me the MFR national honour,” he wrote. “I received the official certificate today, following last night’s announcement. It is a moment of immense pride for me and my family.” Reflecting on his journey with the national team, he credited Nigeria for shaping his identity, values, and football career. “Nigeria gave me my identity, my purpose, and the opportunity to live my dream through football,” Troost-Ekong said. “Wearing the green and white has always been a privilege and a responsibility — a promise to give everything for the badge and for our people.” He also offered encouragement to the current Super Eagles squad as they begin their AFCON campaign, pledging his continued support. “As our Super Eagles start their AFCON journey today, I wish them the very best. As promised, I will be supporting them all the way,” he added. “I believe in this team, in our country, and in what we can achieve together.” Troost-Ekong concluded with a strong message of patriotism: “I am, and will always remain, proud to be Nigerian.”

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Breaking: Tinubu Gifts D’Tigress N150M Each, National Honours, 3-Bedroom Flats

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has rewarded members of the Nigeria’s D’Tigress with mouthwatering gifts for lifting their seventh African Championship at the 2025 FIBA Women’s AfroBasket. The President represented by the Vice President at the Presidential Villa’s Bouquent Hall, Abuja decorated the team and technical crew with Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON). The President also gifted the players the sum of $100,000,00 (N150,000,000), while the coach and the technical crew $50,000,00. The players and the technical crew were also rewarded with three bedroom flats at the Renewed Hope Agenda Estate, Abuja. President Tinubu commended the skill, resilience, determination, and teamwork that propelled the team to the fifth consecutive title, and the seventh overall. He praised the team’s determination to bring glory to the country despite losing the first quarter of the match. “Your superb performance throughout the competition has made Nigeria proud. Like the Super Falcons, you have inspired our young ladies. You embodied the indomitable Nigerian spirit, the power of unity, and the rewards of hard work. “By winning the AfroBasket trophy for a record fifth consecutive time, you have written your names in history and shown the world what to expect out of Africa,” the President stated. President Tinubu also lauded Head Coach Rena Wakama and her technical team for their exemplary leadership and the Nigeria Basketball Federation for their steadfast support. “The Federal Government and Nigerians will never forget the sacrifices and remain grateful for the highly elevating performances. “The government and the people of Nigeria celebrate you and assure you of our continued support as you prepare for the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup next March. President Tinubu added, “I look forward to receiving the victorious team and the trophy in Abuja, while wishing you all a safe trip.” The Coach Rena Makama-led female team won the Afrobasket finals by defeating the Malian side, 78-64, in a thrilling match Sunday night at the Palais des Sports de Treichville in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire.

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