Nigeria will honor PM Modi with the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger, making him the second foreign leader to receive this award after Queen Elizabeth II. This honor comes during Modi’s visit to Nigeria, aimed at enhancing strategic ties between the two nations. It is also his first visit to Nigeria in 17 years, signifying the importance of India-Nigeria relations.
Nigeria is poised to bestow upon Prime Minister Narendra Modi the prestigious Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON) award, making him only the second foreign leader to receive this honor, following Queen Elizabeth II in 1969. This accolade represents the 17th international honor awarded to PM Modi by a foreign nation. The announcement coincided with his arrival in Nigeria, which marks the commencement of a three-nation tour that includes Brazil and Guyana. Modi’s visit seeks to enhance the strategic partnership between India and Nigeria, which has significantly advanced in recent years. Upon his arrival in Abuja, PM Modi was greeted warmly by Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, the Nigerian Minister for Federal Capital Territory, who ceremoniously presented him with the ‘Key to the City.’ PM Modi later issued a statement indicating that this visit, upon the invitation of Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, aims to fortify the strategic relationship between the two nations. He expressed, “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 visit by PM Modi represents a landmark occasion as it is the first time in 17 years that an Indian Prime Minister has visited Nigeria. The bilateral relations between India and Nigeria have been notably beneficial since 2007, characterized by considerable collaboration across economic, energy, and defense sectors. Presently, over 200 Indian enterprises have invested approximately $27 billion in key Nigerian sectors, reinforcing India’s role as a development partner in the region.
The Order of the Niger is one of Nigeria’s highest honors, primarily awarded to recognize remarkable service and contributions to the nation. Established in 1963, this award has been conferred upon various distinguished individuals, including foreign dignitaries who have significantly impacted Nigeria. PM Modi’s forthcoming honor signifies not only his instrumental role in fostering India-Nigeria ties but also the deepening collaboration between the two countries across various dimensions. This visit is historic, as it underscores the long-standing relationship built on mutual respect and shared interests.
In summary, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s impending receipt of the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger accentuates the growing partnership between India and Nigeria. This visit is pivotal, marking a renewal of diplomatic engagement after a considerable gap and highlighting the significant contributions both nations can offer each other in a global context. The honor bestowed upon PM Modi signifies appreciation for his efforts in strengthening bilateral relations, setting a positive trajectory for future collaboration between India and Nigeria.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
