Microsoft co-founder and American billionaire philanthropist Bill Gates was awarded the national honour of Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic (CFR) by President Bola Tinubu in Lagos on Tuesday.
Nigeria’s National Honours recognise outstanding service and contributions to the nation. The Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic (CFR) is among the highest honours, reserved for individuals who have made a profound impact on the country.
Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, confirmed the award in a post on X.
This week, Gates is meeting with President Tinubu to discuss plans aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s primary healthcare system, according to a statement from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.
Bill Gates honoured for “decades-long” commitment to polio eradication in Nigeria
In a social media post on Tuesday, President Tinubu explained that Gates was honoured for his exceptional contributions to agriculture, education, innovation, polio eradication, and global health, particularly in Nigeria and across Africa.
“Today, I conferred the Nigerian National Honour of Commander of the Federal Republic (CFR) on Mr Bill Gates #BillGates in recognition of his decades-long commitment to improving lives through interventions in global health & polio eradication, education, digital innovation, and agricultural development, especially in Nigeria and across Africa,” the presidency wrote in a statement on Tuesday.
“Bill Gates’ contributions have saved millions through the Gates Foundation @gatesfoundation and many such initiatives, uplifted communities, and inspired global action,” he added.
The president also revealed that they talked about working together on youth development, innovation, and health systems.
“We also had meaningful conversations on deepening our collaboration in health systems, innovation, and youth development, reaffirming our shared belief that real progress begins when we invest in people,” the presidency disclosed. “Nigeria remains open to ideas, partnerships, and actions that move humanity forward.”
Bill Gates’ commitment to humanity
Special Adviser to the President on social media, Dada Olusegun, shared a video of Tinubu expressing gratitude and praise for Gates’ unwavering commitment to humanity. The president described Gates’ dedication as “remarkable” and an inspiration to leaders everywhere, including himself.
“It is a day to share happiness and respect acknowledged to one of the greatest human beings that the world has brought.”
“All I need to say is thank you, Bill Gates, for your indivisible commitment to humanity.”
“It is highly remarkable, it is an inspiration to leadership across the world including the one standing before you.”
“I thank you very much. That is all. It is a great thing to honour you.”
About the National Honour
The CFR is one of Nigeria’s highest national honours, awarded to those who have significantly enhanced the country’s image abroad or contributed to its development.
These honours are given to Nigerians and friends of Nigeria who have made exceptional contributions to the nation’s progress or excelled in their fields. Recipients are nominated and recognised for their outstanding service and impact.