In a significant recognition of global philanthropy, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has conferred the Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic (CFR) honour on Microsoft co-founder and billionaire philanthropist, Bill Gates.
The honour was presented on Tuesday, June 3, 2025, in Lagos, during Gates’ high-profile visit to Nigeria aimed at discussing major health and development initiatives with government and local partners.
Photos from the event show President Tinubu presenting the national medal to Gates, with Aliko Dangote, Africa’s richest man and founder of the Dangote Group, in attendance.
According to the 9am News report, Gates’ visit is focused on strengthening Nigeria’s primary healthcare system, which remains a cornerstone in the country’s fight against infectious diseases and other public health challenges.
Gates, who serves as the chair of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, is holding discussions with federal and state leaders, stakeholders in the health sector, and local partners to reinforce collaboration on Nigeria’s ongoing health care reforms.
“From Addis Ababa, Gates will travel to Nigeria, where he will meet with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and engage with federal and state leaders to discuss Nigeria’s primary health care reforms,” a statement from the Foundation noted.
As part of his visit, Gates is also set to participate in the Goalkeepers Nigeria event, which focuses on Africa’s innovation future. The event brings together policymakers, innovators, and entrepreneurs to explore how artificial intelligence (AI) and health tech solutions can accelerate development outcomes across the continent.
He is also expected to engage with Nigerian scientists and partners contributing to the national strategy on AI integration into health solutions.
Gates Foundation’s Commitment to Africa
The Gates Foundation announced recently that it will invest $200 billion over the next 20 years to drive global health and development. A significant portion of this investment will be directed toward Africa, especially in regions where the Foundation has been actively working.
With active offices in South Africa, Kenya, Nigeria, Senegal, and Ethiopia, the Foundation’s presence highlights a deepening commitment to partnerships across the African continent.
“This reflects our continued commitment to supporting African nations with tailored innovations and sustainable solutions,” the Foundation stated.
Gates’ investment pledge is in line with his earlier announcement to donate “virtually all of his wealth” to the Foundation, reinforcing his legacy as one of the world’s most generous philanthropists.
The CFR award, one of Nigeria’s highest national honours, is seen as a nod to Gates’ decades-long contribution to advancing global health, fighting poverty, and supporting innovations that benefit millions across Africa.
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