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Tinubu Confers National Honour on Bill Gates for Philanthropic Impact in Nigeria

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has conferred one of Nigeria’s highest national honours, the Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic (CFR), on American philanthropist and Microsoft co-founder, Bill Gates, in recognition of his outstanding contributions to health, education, and poverty reduction, particularly within Nigeria and across the African continent.
The award was presented during Gates’ official visit to Nigeria, where he met with President Tinubu and other senior officials to discuss strategic reforms in Nigeria’s primary healthcare system. Gates’ visit also includes his participation in the Goalkeepers Nigeria event and engagements with researchers and innovators focused on artificial intelligence-driven health solutions.
The CFR honour is reserved for individuals who have made significant contributions to Nigeria’s national development or have played key roles in elevating the country’s global standing.
Speaking during the visit, Gates, 69, described his work in Africa as both a “moral responsibility and a strategic investment,” reaffirming his long-term commitment to the continent.
The Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, which Gates co-chairs, has already committed over $100 billion to global health and development efforts. The foundation now plans to invest an additional $200 billion in Africa over the next few decades, depending on market conditions and inflation trends.
President Tinubu praised Gates for his “unwavering dedication to improving the lives of Nigerians,” emphasizing the importance of global partnerships in achieving sustainable development.
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