6 Foreign Leaders and Icons Honoured by Nigeria’s National Awards

Nigeria’s National Honours do more than celebrate local achievement; they also recognise influential foreigners who have strengthened the country’s ties or supported its development. 

Since the awards began in 1963, five non‑Nigerians have received top honours for their historic impact and friendship with Nigeria.

1. Queen Elizabeth II – GCON & GCFR

In 1969, Nigeria awarded Britain’s Queen Elizabeth II the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON)—an honour reserved for the highest-ranking foreign friends of the nation.

Twenty years later, in 1989, she received Nigeria’s top honour, the Grand Commander of the Federal Republic (GCFR), reflecting the long‑standing ties between Nigeria and the British monarchy.

2. Nelson Mandela – GCFR

South Africa’s legendary anti‑apartheid leader, Nelson Mandela, was given the GCFR in 1990 during his visit to Lagos.

President Ibrahim Babangida presented the award at the State House Marina, symbolising Nigeria’s deep solidarity with Mandela throughout his 27 years of imprisonment and his fight for freedom.

3. Muammar Gaddafi – GCFR

Libyan leader Muammar Gaddafi received the GCFR in May 1997 from then‑Head of State General Sani Abacha.

Honoured at a state banquet in Abuja alongside Niger’s president, Gaddafi’s award marked Nigeria’s close diplomatic relations with Libya during that era.

4. Susanne Wenger – OFR

Austrian‑born artist and Yoruba priestess known as Adunni Olorisha, Susanne Wenger led the restoration of the sacred Osun Grove in Osogbo, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

In 2005, Nigeria recognised her cultural contributions with the Officer of the Order of the Federal Republic (OFR), celebrating her work in preserving Yoruba art and traditions.

5. Narendra Modi – GCON

In 2024, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was honoured with the GCON by President Bola Tinubu. This award acknowledged his leadership in deepening Nigeria‑India relations and marked Nigeria’s appreciation for Modi’s role on the global stage.

6. Bill Gates

Most recently, in June 2025, Microsoft co‑founder and philanthropist Bill Gates was conferred Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic (CFR) by President Bola Tinubu.

This third‑highest honour recognised Gates’s Foundation’s over $2 billion investment in Nigeria’s health, agriculture and education, including pivotal support for polio eradication and maternal health program