American billionaire philanthropist and Microsoft co-founder, Bill Gates, has been conferred with the national honour of Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic by President Bola Tinubu.
The ceremony took place on Tuesday in Lagos.
The news was confirmed via a post on X by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.
Gates is currently in Nigeria on a visit aimed at exploring ways to support the country’s primary healthcare sector.
According to the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, he is scheduled to meet with President Tinubu and other stakeholders during the trip.
President Tinubu, in a post on his official social media account, said the honour was in recognition of Gates’ far-reaching contributions to humanity, particularly in the fields of health, education, innovation, and agriculture, with a strong focus on Nigeria and Africa.
He stated, “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.
“Bill Gates’ contributions have saved millions through the Gates Foundation @gatesfoundation and many such initiatives, uplifted communities, and inspired global action.”
he President also noted that their discussions centred on strengthening cooperation in health systems, digital advancement, and youth empowerment.
“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.
“Nigeria remains open to ideas, partnerships, and actions that move humanity forward.”
In a video shared by the President’s Special Adviser on Social Media, Dada Olusegun, Tinubu expressed his personal gratitude to Gates and praised his unwavering service to mankind.
The President remarked, “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.”
