Nigeria will honor PM Narendra Modi with the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger award, making him the second foreign dignitary to receive it, following Queen Elizabeth II. His visit aims to strengthen strategic ties between India and Nigeria and marks the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister in 17 years, highlighting the deep-rooted bilateral relationship.
Nigeria is preparing to honor Prime Minister Narendra Modi with the prestigious Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON) award. This significant recognition positions him as the second foreign dignitary to receive this honor, following Queen Elizabeth II, who was awarded it in 1969. This award from Nigeria adds to the 17 international accolades already conferred upon PM Modi, showcasing India’s growing diplomatic presence around the globe. PM Modi’s visit to Nigeria initiates his three-nation tour, which also includes stops in Brazil and Guyana. The primary objective of this visit is to reinforce and enhance the strategic partnership between India and Nigeria, which has evolved considerably over recent years. Upon his arrival in the Nigerian capital, Abuja, he was received warmly by Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, the Minister for Federal Capital Territory, who presented him with the ‘Key to the City’ of Abuja, symbolizing a gesture of goodwill and hospitality. Highlighting the significance of this visit, PM Modi stated, “At the invitation of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, this will be my first visit to Nigeria, which is our close partner in the West African region. My visit will be an opportunity to build upon our Strategic Partnership that is based on shared belief in democracy and pluralism.” Modi’s engagement aims to strengthen the long-standing friendly relations between India and Nigeria, established since 2007. The Prime Minister’s delegation marks an important milestone, being the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Nigeria in 17 years. The bilateral ties between the two nations have been enriched by collaboration in various sectors, including economic, energy, and defense initiatives. Currently, over 200 Indian companies have invested upwards of $27 billion in Nigeria, consolidating India’s role as a key development partner in the region.
The Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger is one of Nigeria’s highest honors, reflecting the country’s acknowledgment of significant contributions to its development and relationship-building with other nations. The decision to bestow this honor upon PM Modi exemplifies the deepening diplomatic ties and mutual respect that has been cultivated over the years. India and Nigeria have established a collaborative framework that extends across various sectors, indicating the strength and potential of their partnership on the global stage. Prime Minister Modi’s visit underscores the importance of this relationship within the context of West Africa’s geopolitical landscape.
In summary, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s upcoming recognition by Nigeria with the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger underlines the strengthening relations between the two nations. This award not only celebrates Modi’s contributions to bilateral diplomacy but also sets the stage for further engagement in strategic areas. His visit marks a significant moment in Indo-Nigerian relations and opens avenues for collaborative growth in essential sectors, ultimately fostering greater stability and development in the region.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
