President Bola Tinubu confers Nigeria’s national honour of CFR on Bill Gates, recognising his transformative work in health, education, and innovation across Nigeria

[dropcap]B[/dropcap]ill Gates CFR is the latest title conferred on American billionaire philanthropist Mr Bill Gates by the Federal Republic of Nigeria, as President Bola Tinubu honoured him with the prestigious Commander of the Federal Republic (CFR) award on Tuesday.

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The high-profile investiture, held in Abuja, celebrated Gates’ outstanding contributions to Nigeria’s public health, education, agriculture, and technological innovation efforts largely driven by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.

President Tinubu commended Gates for his multi-decade partnership with Nigeria, particularly in critical areas such as polio eradication and health system strengthening.

“Bill Gates’ contributions have uplifted communities and catalysed solutions to some of the world’s most pressing challenges,” Tinubu remarked.

“His passion for progress aligns with our belief that real development begins with investing in people.”

Following the award ceremony, both leaders engaged in discussions focused on enhancing cooperation in youth empowerment, healthcare innovation, and digital development.

President Tinubu reiterated Nigeria’s openness to collaborations that “move humanity forward.”

Gates, a long-time advocate for Africa’s development, expressed gratitude for the national honour and pledged continued support for Nigeria’s development ambitions.

“Nigeria is a country of immense potential. The Gates Foundation remains committed to being a partner in progress—supporting efforts that change lives,” he said.

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The Commander of the Federal Republic (CFR) is Nigeria’s third-highest national honour, awarded to individuals whose work has had a profound impact on national growth and global development.