President Bola Tinubu has awarded the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON) to Lebanese-Nigerian businessman Gilbert Chagoury, in recognition of his contributions to Nigeria’s development.
The national honour, which is Nigeria’s second-highest after the Grand Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic (GCFR), was conferred through an Instrument of Conferment dated January 8, 2026.
According to the instrument, the president exercised his powers under the National Honours Act to bestow the award in appreciation of Chagoury’s services to the country. Tinubu described the businessman as worthy of the honour, citing his “outstanding virtues” and contributions to national growth.
Chagoury, who was born in Nigeria to Lebanese parents, is a leading industrialist and co-founder of the Chagoury Group, established in Lagos in 1971. The group operates across several sectors, including construction, real estate, hospitality, glass manufacturing, and flour milling.
He is also a key investor in the Eko Atlantic City project through South Energyx Nigeria Limited, a subsidiary of the Chagoury Group. Another company associated with the group, Hitech Construction Company Ltd, is currently involved in the construction of the Lagos–Calabar Coastal Highway.
Chagoury became a prominent figure in Nigeria’s business landscape in the 1990s and is widely known for his close association with the late military head of state, General Sani Abacha, during whose administration his business interests expanded.
