Gabon Honours Tony Elumelu for Driving Youth Empowerment and Economic Growth
President of the Republic of Gabon, General Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, has bestowed the Commander in the National Order of Gabonese Merit on Tony Elumelu, Group Chairman of UBA and Founder of the Tony Elumelu Foundation. The honour recognises Elumelu’s significant contributions to Africa’s economic development, particularly in infrastructure and youth entrepreneurship.
During the ceremony at the presidential palace in Libreville, President Nguema praised Elumelu as a “visionary entrepreneur” and “committed friend of Gabon,” applauding his role in driving inclusive and sustainable growth across Africa.
Elumelu, in his response, expressed gratitude and reaffirmed his belief in African-led development, stating: “This is more than a medal – it is a reminder of what we can achieve together as Africans.”
The award underscores Elumelu’s growing influence in Gabon, where he has recently deepened investment through the UBA Group and the Tony Elumelu Foundation, which empowers young entrepreneurs with mentorship and $5,000 seed capital annually.
This recognition also highlights the strengthening financial partnership between Gabon and UBA, as the country pushes for economic recovery and inclusive development under new leadership.
