(DDM) – Femi Otedola has publicly hailed Lebanese-Nigerian businessman Gilbert Chagoury following the conferment of the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON) by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The billionaire industrialist described Chagoury as a mentor, visionary, and nation-builder whose influence spans decades of business development and philanthropy in Nigeria.
Otedola’s congratulatory message immediately drew national attention, not only because of the stature of both men, but also because of renewed public scrutiny surrounding the criteria for Nigeria’s highest national honours.
He stated that Chagoury’s life work reflects commitment to excellence, long-term investment, and loyalty to Nigeria’s economic growth.
Otedola emphasized that Chagoury’s impact goes beyond boardrooms, highlighting his role in infrastructure development, private sector expansion, and international investor confidence in Nigeria.
According to Otedola, the GCON recognition validates years of quiet but strategic contributions that have helped shape modern Nigerian enterprise.
Chagoury, founder of the Chagoury Group, has maintained a strong presence in Nigeria for decades, particularly in construction, manufacturing, hospitality, and real estate.
His companies have executed major projects across Lagos and other key cities, contributing to urban development and employment generation.
Supporters of the honour argue that Chagoury represents the kind of private-sector leadership Nigeria needs, blending capital, global networks, and long-term vision.
They insist that national honours should not be limited to political office holders alone but should also celebrate individuals who build institutions and sustain economic growth.
However, the honour has also triggered debate among critics who question the transparency and balance of Nigeria’s honours system.
Some commentators argue that national awards increasingly favour economic elites and political allies over grassroots contributors, civil servants, and social reformers.
Others contend that foreign-born business figures receiving top honours raises questions about inclusivity and national representation.
Despite the controversy, Otedola maintained that Chagoury’s Nigerian identity is defined by commitment, not origin, stressing that contribution to nation-building should remain the ultimate benchmark.
He described Chagoury as a stabilizing influence in Nigeria’s business environment, especially during periods of economic uncertainty and political transition.
Observers note that President Tinubu’s decision to confer the GCON aligns with his long-standing relationship with Chagoury and his administration’s emphasis on private-sector-driven growth.
The development has reignited public conversation about the intersection of power, wealth, recognition, and national values in contemporary Nigeria.
While supporters celebrate the honour as deserved recognition of excellence, critics insist the moment should prompt a broader reform of how Nigeria defines and rewards service to the nation.
As the debate continues, the GCON award to Gilbert Chagoury remains both a symbol of elite achievement and a mirror reflecting Nigeria’s unresolved questions about merit, influence, and national honour.