Prime Minister Narendra Modi was conferred with Nigeria’s second-highest national honor, the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON), during his visit to Abuja on Sunday. He is only the second foreign leader to receive this award, following Queen Elizabeth in 1969.
Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu presented the award to PM Modi, who dedicated it to the 1,400 million people of India and the enduring friendship between India and Nigeria. “As two vibrant democracies with dynamic economies, we work together for the well-being of our people,” Modi said, emphasizing the shared values of democracy and mutual cooperation.
The visit, part of Modi’s three-nation tour including Brazil and Guyana, aims to bolster strategic ties. Upon arrival, Modi was welcomed by Nigeria’s Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, who presented him with the ‘Key to the City’ of Abuja, symbolizing trust and respect for the Indian leader.
This honor marks Nigeria as the 17th country to recognize PM Modi’s global contributions, adding to his growing list of international accolades.
