In a historic moment, Nigeria is set to honor Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi with the prestigious Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON) award, making him only the second foreign dignitary to receive this honor. The first was Queen Elizabeth II, who was bestowed the same award in 1969. This recognition marks the 17th international award received by PM Modi from a foreign country.
The announcement of the award came as PM Modi arrived in Abuja, Nigeria, for the first leg of his three-nation tour, which will also take him to Brazil and Guyana. The prime minister’s visit aims to strengthen the strategic partnership between India and Nigeria, a relationship that has grown substantially over the years.
Upon his arrival, PM Modi was warmly received by Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, the Nigerian Minister for the Federal Capital Territory, who presented him with the “Key to the City” of Abuja. In his statement, PM Modi expressed his gratitude for the warm welcome and emphasized the importance of his visit in enhancing the India-Nigeria partnership.
“This visit to Nigeria is an opportunity to build on our Strategic Partnership, which is based on shared beliefs in democracy and pluralism,” PM Modi said in his statement. He also mentioned his eagerness to meet the Indian community and friends from Nigeria who had extended warm welcome messages in Hindi.
The Indian Prime Minister’s visit marks the first trip by an Indian Prime Minister to Nigeria in 17 years, highlighting the growing ties between the two nations. India and Nigeria have enjoyed warm and friendly bilateral relations since 2007, with increasing collaboration in key areas such as energy, defense, and economic development.
As of now, over 200 Indian companies have invested more than $27 billion in various sectors across Nigeria, reinforcing India’s role as a key development partner for the West African nation.
PM Modi’s recognition with the GCON is a testament to the deepening ties between India and Nigeria and the growing global stature of both nations.
Sources By Agencies