Nigeria will honor Prime Minister Narendra Modi with the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger award, making him the second foreign dignitary to receive this honor, after Queen Elizabeth II. This marks Modi’s 17th international award and emphasizes the growing strategic ties between India and Nigeria during his three-nation tour.
Nigeria has announced plans to honor Prime Minister Narendra Modi with the prestigious Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON) award. This accolade will make him only the second foreign dignitary to receive this honor, following Queen Elizabeth II, who was awarded it in 1969. This recognition marks PM Modi’s 17th international award from a foreign nation, reflecting the strengthening ties between India and Nigeria. The announcement came during PM Modi’s arrival in Nigeria, where he is embarking on a three-nation tour that also includes Brazil and Guyana. His visit signifies an intent to deepen strategic relationships between India and Nigeria, which have seen significant growth over recent years. Upon arrival in Abuja, PM Modi was greeted warmly by Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, the Nigerian Minister for Federal Capital Territory, who honored him with the ‘Key to the City’ of Abuja. In a statement, PM Modi expressed his commitment to enhancing bilateral relations and indicated that this visit follows an invitation from Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. He 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 visit, which is the first by an Indian Prime Minister to Nigeria in 17 years, underscores a long-standing friendship that has been robust since 2007. The relationship emphasizes strong cooperation in economic, energy, and defense initiatives, with over 200 Indian companies having invested more than $27 billion in Nigeria. This cooperation has solidified India’s role as a vital development partner in the region.
The Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON) is one of Nigeria’s highest honors, reflecting exceptional service and contributions to the nation. Established in 1963, the award has been given sparingly and is a mark of distinction primarily awarded to foreign dignitaries. PM Modi’s upcoming visit to Nigeria marks a significant milestone in bilateral relations, highlighting the development of India-Nigeria ties in various sectors. Collaborative efforts in economic, energy, and defense initiatives have flourished, indicating robust partnerships that have evolved over the years, particularly since 2007. Nigeria and India share diplomatic relations that emphasize democracy, pluralism, and mutual respect, with an aim to bolster economic development and create strategic alliances. The warmth of PM Modi’s welcome and the honor he is set to receive point to the ongoing commitment of both nations to further nurture their historical partnership.
In conclusion, the honor bestowed upon Prime Minister Narendra Modi by Nigeria signifies a burgeoning relationship between India and Nigeria, characterized by mutual respect and collaboration. This recognition, alongside PM Modi’s visit, is poised to strengthen ties in various key sectors, reaffirming India’s role as a significant development partner for Nigeria. The visit symbolizes not only the importance of their shared history but also a commitment to future cooperation.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
