Nigeria will honor Prime Minister Narendra Modi with the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON), making him the second foreign dignitary to receive this award after Queen Elizabeth II. This visit marks his first to Nigeria in 17 years and aims to strengthen diplomatic relations, with over $27 billion in Indian investments in Nigeria’s economy.
Nigeria has bestowed upon Prime Minister Narendra Modi the prestigious Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON) award, marking him as the second foreign dignitary to be honored with this accolade, which was previously awarded to Queen Elizabeth II in 1969. This recognition represents the 17th international award that Prime Minister Modi has received from foreign nations. The announcement coincided with Modi’s arrival in Nigeria, which is the first destination in his three-nation tour that includes Brazil and Guyana. During his visit, aimed at strengthening the strategic partnership between India and Nigeria, Modi was warmly greeted by Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, the Nigerian Minister for Federal Capital Territory, who presented him with the ‘Key to the City’ of Abuja. Prime Minister Modi expressed gratitude for the invitation from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, emphasizing the significance of enhancing their collaborative efforts based on mutual democratic values and pluralism. Modi remarked on the importance of this visit, stating, “My visit will be an opportunity to build upon our Strategic Partnership that is based on shared belief in democracy and pluralism.” This trip is particularly noteworthy as it marks the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Nigeria in 17 years, underscoring the growing bilateral relations established since 2007. Over 200 Indian enterprises have made substantial investments exceeding $27 billion in Nigeria, reinforcing India’s role as a valuable development partner in key economic sectors.
The Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON) is one of Nigeria’s highest honors, previously awarded to distinguished individuals for their exceptional contributions to the country. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recognition not only signifies India’s firm commitment to strengthening ties with Nigeria but also reflects the growing international acknowledgment of his leadership on the global stage. The visit is particularly significant as it aims to mark a new chapter in the long-standing relationship between India and Nigeria, especially in terms of economic collaborations and shared democratic values.
In conclusion, Nigeria’s awarding of the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger to Prime Minister Narendra Modi illustrates the deepening diplomatic and strategic ties between the two nations. Modi’s visit signifies a renewed commitment to enhancing collaboration through mutual respect and shared values, particularly in the realms of democracy and development. As India and Nigeria continue to build upon their longstanding relationship, both nations stand to benefit from renewed economic and cultural exchanges.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
