Gilbert Chagoury’s GCON Award, A Celebration of Cronyism, Says Nebena
The Tinubu GCON award controversy has reignited nationwide debate following sharp criticism from former APC Deputy National Publicity Secretary Yekini Nabena. Speaking out against the presidency’s decision to confer the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger on Lebanese-Nigerian billionaire Gilbert Chagoury, Nabena described the move as a “A Celebration of Cronyism”, and “slap in the face of hardworking Nigerians.”
He argued that the prestigious GCON, traditionally reserved for top public servants and statesmen of impeccable integrity, has been undermined by awarding it to a figure with a contentious legal and business history.
Nabena highlighted the ethical concerns surrounding the award, particularly Chagoury’s past involvement in money laundering related to the Abacha era, including his 2000 conviction in Switzerland. While acknowledging Chagoury’s significant contributions to Nigeria’s urban landscape, including the development of Eko Atlantic City and Banana Island, Nabena maintained that such achievements cannot overshadow the moral implications of his past. “National honors are meant to celebrate integrity and sacrifice, not political and business partnerships,” he said.
The former APC official also raised concerns over government contracts held by the Chagoury Group. He specifically pointed to Hitech Construction’s involvement in the multi-trillion-naira Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project, which was awarded without open competitive bidding. Nabena argued that the GCON award in this context creates the perception of cronyism, sending the wrong message to Nigerian youths about merit, accountability, and national recognition.
Adding to the controversy, Nabena questioned the transparency of the award process. He noted that although the honor was dated January 8, 2026, the announcement was not made officially by the presidency but was instead shared publicly by billionaire Femi Otedola. He suggested that the secrecy reflects the government’s awareness of potential backlash and urged President Tinubu to prioritize national honors for unsung heroes such as doctors, teachers, and security personnel who serve the country daily, rather than wealthy associates with political connections.
READ ALSO: Tinubu Awards GCON to Gilbert Chagoury, Lebanese Businessman
As the Tinubu GCON award controversy continues to trend across media platforms, it has sparked broader discussions on the integrity of Nigeria’s honors system. Supporters of the president emphasize Chagoury’s decades of investment and job creation as justification, but critics like Nabena insist that the Grand Commander title should remain reserved for individuals who embody ethical leadership and national service. For many Nigerians, the debate goes beyond one individual, raising fundamental questions about who and what the nation chooses to celebrate during a period of economic challenges and calls for systemic reform.