NIGERIA HONOURS PM NARENDRA MODI WITH ‘GRAND COMMANDER OF THE ORDER OF THE NIGER’ AWARD

Prime minister Narendra Modi arrived in Abuja as part of his three-nation tour, which includes visit to Nigeria, Brazil and Guyana from November 17 to November 21.

The visit at the invitation of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is expected to strengthen strategic ties between Nigeria and India.

Upon his arrival, he was warmly welcomed by Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, Nigeria’s Minister for the Federal Capital Territory, who presented him with the symbolic ‘Key to the City’ of Abuja. This gesture reflects the trust and respect the Nigerian people hold for the Indian leader.

GRAND COMMANDER OF THE ORDER OF THE NIGER (GCON)

On Sunday, the second-highest national honour, the Grand Commander of the Order of Niger (GCON) was awarded to PM Modi for his statesmanship and stellar contribution to fostering India-Nigeria ties, making him second foreign dignitary to receive the prestigious award.

Queen Elizabeth was the first foreign recipient of the GCON in 1969.

PM MODI’S RESPONSE ON RECEIVING THE AWARD

“Honoured to be conferred with the ‘Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger’ award by Nigeria. I accept it with great humility and dedicate it to the 140 crore people of India and to the friendship between the two nations” Mr. Modi said.

The award adds to a growing list of international honours for the prime minister, with Nigeria becoming the 17th country to recognise him for his contributions on global stage.

FUTURE OF INDIA AND NIGERIA RELATIONS

The leaders discussed in detail about making mutual cooperations, between the two countries, stronger and broader.

PM Modi said the new possibilities have been identified in the fields of economy, energy, agriculture, security, fintech, small and medium scale enterprises and cultural sectors. He also stated the Nigeria has a very big role in Africa and close cooperation with the continent has been a high priority for India.

“India and Nigeria will move forward together for the prosperity of the people of both countries and the entire African continent. We will give importance to the interests and priorities of Global South, working in close coordination” he said.

President Tinubu acknowledged India’s efforts to amplify the concerns of developing countries through the voice of the Global South Summits. He also appreciated the development cooperation partnership offered and its meaningful impact in creating local capacities, skills and professional expertise.

The two leaders also discussed enhancing the defence and security cooperation and reaffirmed their commitment to jointly fight terrorism, piracy and radicalisation.

Following the talks, three MoUs on Cultural Exchange Programme, Custom Cooperation and Survey cooperation were signed.

CONCLUSION

The honour conferred to the Prime Minister is not just a mere award rather it showcases the importance of a strong leader. Sighting the past, a nation which was not respected the way it should have been has now evolved the extent where it has been awarded the same honour that was once presented to the leadership of a “great” nation. This also signifies the constant efforts of fostering healthy foreign relations in the past, are now providing a concrete pavement for the growth of nation and its citizens.