Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to receive the prestigious Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON), one of Nigeria’s highest civilian honors. This recognition makes him the second foreign dignitary to receive the honor, following Queen Elizabeth II, who was conferred the title in 1969.
This will be the 17th such international award being conferred to PM Modi by a country.
PM Modi arrived in Abuja, Nigeria, on Sunday, kicking off a three-nation tour that also includes Brazil and Guyana. Upon his arrival, he was welcomed by Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, Nigeria’s Minister for the Federal Capital Territory. In a symbolic gesture, Wike presented the Prime Minister with the ‘Key to the City’ of Abuja, signifying the trust and respect of the Nigerian people.
The Prime Minister is scheduled to hold bilateral discussions in Nigeria to strengthen the ties between both countries.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is on a three-nation tour to Nigeria, Brazil and Guyana scheduled from November 17 to November 21.
PM Modi issued a statement indicating his first stop in Nigeria, following President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s invitation, aimed at strengthening strategic ties between both countries.
“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. I am also eagerly looking forward to meeting the Indian community and friends from Nigeria who have sent me warm welcome messages in Hindi,” the statement said.
The visit by PM Modi is the first visit by a Prime Minister of India to Nigeria in 17 years.
India and Nigeria have been strategic partners since 2007 with growing economic, energy and defence collaboration. More than 200 Indian companies have invested over USD 27 billion in important sectors in Nigeria. India and Nigeria also share a strong development cooperation partnership.
During the visit, the Prime Minister will hold talks to review the strategic partnership between India and Nigeria and discuss further avenues to enhance the bilateral relationship. (ANI)