Nigeria to honour PM Modi with prestigious GCON Award during historic visit

After Queen Elizabeth II, PM Modi becomes second foreign leader to receive Nigeria’s highest civilian honour

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to receive Nigeria’s highest civilian honour, the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON), in recognition of his contributions to strengthening India-Nigeria relations. This prestigious award, which is Nigeria’s second-highest civilian decoration, places PM Modi among an elite group of foreign dignitaries. He will be the second person to receive the GCON, following Queen Elizabeth II, who was honoured with the award in 1969.

PM Modi’s GCON award marks the 17th international recognition bestowed upon him, underscoring his global influence and the strengthening of India’s diplomatic ties worldwide.

The announcement came as PM Modi arrived in Abuja, Nigeria, on Sunday, marking the start of his three-nation tour, which also includes Brazil and Guyana. He was warmly received by Nigeria’s Minister for the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, who presented the Prime Minister with the ‘Key to the City’ of Abuja, a symbolic gesture signifying the trust and respect of the Nigerian people.

During his visit, PM Modi is expected to hold high-level talks with Nigerian officials, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to further deepen bilateral ties between the two countries. The visit will focus on strengthening India-Nigeria strategic relations, particularly in the areas of energy, trade, and defence cooperation.

In a statement, PM Modi expressed his excitement about visiting Nigeria, calling it a “close partner” in West Africa. “At the invitation of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, this will be my first visit to Nigeria. My visit will be an opportunity to build upon our Strategic Partnership, which is based on a 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,” said Modi.

PM Modi’s visit is significant as it marks the first time in 17 years that an Indian Prime Minister has visited Nigeria. India and Nigeria have maintained a robust strategic partnership since 2007, with increasing economic, energy, and defence collaboration. Over 200 Indian companies have invested more than USD 27 billion in Nigeria, particularly in key sectors such as energy, infrastructure, and manufacturing.

The two nations also share a strong development cooperation framework, and PM Modi’s visit is expected to further cement the growing ties between the two countries. During his time in Nigeria, the Prime Minister will hold discussions aimed at reviewing and expanding the strategic partnership, with a focus on new avenues for cooperation in various fields.

As part of his visit, PM Modi will also meet with the Indian diaspora in Nigeria, a vibrant community that plays a significant role in fostering bilateral relations.

With this trip, PM Modi continues to strengthen India’s ties with key global partners, while receiving recognition for his leadership on the international stage.

For all the latest updates, download PGurus App.

The post Nigeria to honour PM Modi with prestigious GCON Award during historic visit appeared first on PGurus.