Nigeria conferred the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON) to the Prime Minister of India – Narendra Modi. The second-highest national award was presented during his first official visit to the country on November 17, 2024.
Previously, the foreign dignitary who received the award was British Queen Elizabeth in 1969. The Indian Prime Minister arrived in Abuja on Sunday as part of a three-nation diplomatic tour, who also includes Brazil and Guyana.
He was welcomed by the President of Nigeria – Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who personally received him at Abuja Airport, signifying the importance of the visit in strengthening India-Nigeria relations.
President Tinubu, yesterday honoured PM Modi during the bilateral meeting which was held at Abuja’s Aso Rock Villa. This serves as the office and residence of the Nigerian Presidency.
Tinubu further said that Nigeria values its excellent relationship with India and together they are working to deepen and broaden the same to the mutual benefit of the two friendly countries.
He added further that this honour represents a very strong commitment, considering democratic values and norms. They have been doing a good job historically and won three consecutive elections in a complex society is a feat that they respect so much.
Nigerian President Tinubu expressed in his statement, “I will confer on you today, the Prime Minister of India, Nigeria’s National Honour – the Grand Commander of the Order of Niger. This is to signify Nigerian appreciation and their commitment to India as a partner.”
Upon his arrival in Nigeria, Prime Minister Narendra Modi also presented his gratitude on his official social media platform on ‘X’ and tweeted, “Landed a short while ago in Nigeria. Grateful for the warm welcome. May this visit deepen the bilateral friendship between the nations.”
His visit marks the very first visit of the Indian Prime Minister to Nigeria in 17 years. Moreover, the recognition will be the 17th International award conferred on the Prime Minister.