Africa (Commonwealth Union) _ In a historic gesture, Nigeria conferred its second-highest national honour, the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON), on Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his visit to Abuja. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu presented the award at the State House, recognizing Modi’s pivotal role in deepening India-Nigeria relations and his global leadership.
Modi, the first Indian Prime Minister to visit Nigeria in 17 years, expressed heartfelt gratitude for the accolade, dedicating it to India’s citizens and the enduring partnership between the two nations. “This honour reflects our shared aspirations and the unbreakable bond between India and Nigeria,” Modi stated.
This prestigious award places Modi alongside the late Queen Elizabeth II, the only other foreign leader to receive the GCON, further highlighting the visit’s historical significance.
The ceremonial honours began with Modi receiving the symbolic “Key to the City of Abuja” from Nigeria’s Minister for Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike. The gesture underscored the respect and trust accorded to him by the Nigerian leadership and its people.
The visit marked a significant step in bilateral relations, as both nations aim to enhance cooperation in key sectors such as energy, agriculture, fintech, and small and medium enterprises (SMEs). With bilateral trade surpassing $15 billion annually, India remains one of Nigeria’s largest trading partners.
Modi acknowledged Nigeria’s critical role as a leader in Africa and emphasized India’s commitment to advancing the priorities of the Global South. “India and Nigeria share a relationship of mutual respect and a vision for shared prosperity. Together, we aim to empower our people and the African continent,” he remarked.
Discussions between Modi and Nigerian leaders centered on economic growth, energy security, and cultural exchange, highlighting both nations’ shared ambitions for development and innovation.
Modi’s visit to Nigeria is part of a broader diplomatic tour, including stops in Brazil for the G20 Summit and Guyana to reinforce South-South cooperation.
For Nigeria, awarding Modi the GCON underscores its strategic engagement with India, a key partner in trade, technology, and development. For India, this visit signifies its increasing diplomatic outreach to emerging economies.
As India and Nigeria chart a new course for collaboration, this landmark visit sets the stage for deeper integration, shared progress, and strengthened global partnerships.
