India’s PM Modi to Receive Prestigious GCON Award from Nigeria
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to receive the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger award in Nigeria, becoming the second foreign dignitary to be honored after Queen Elizabeth II. His visit aims to strengthen India-Nigeria strategic ties amidst growing bilateral relations marked by significant economic cooperation and collaboration in multiple sectors.
Nigeria will bestow the prestigious Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON) award upon Prime Minister Narendra Modi, positioning him as the second foreign dignitary to receive this honor, the first being Queen Elizabeth II in 1969. This recognition occurs as PM Modi embarks on a trip to Nigeria, Brazil, and Guyana, primarily focusing on fortifying the strategic relationship between India and Nigeria. Upon making his entrance in Abuja, he was greeted by Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, the Nigerian Minister for Federal Capital Territory, who honored him with the ‘Key to the City’ of Abuja. During this significant visit, PM Modi expressed heartfelt sentiments regarding his engagement with Nigeria, stating, “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.” The visit marks the first instance of an Indian Prime Minister traveling to Nigeria in 17 years, underlining the growing economic, energy, and defense cooperation since 2007, with over 200 Indian companies investing significantly in Nigeria.
The Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON) is one of Nigeria’s highest honors, traditionally awarded to individuals who have made exceptional contributions to the nation. The decision to confer this award on Prime Minister Modi highlights the strengthening bilateral relations between India and Nigeria, which have become increasingly significant over recent years. This visit not only aims to celebrate this acknowledgment but also to further the economic and strategic partnerships established between the two nations. India’s growing presence in Nigeria’s development landscape, characterized by substantial investments, has reinforced these ties.
In summary, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s impending receipt of the GCON award from Nigeria signifies a pivotal moment in international diplomacy, particularly in improving India-Nigeria relations. This visit, the first by a Prime Minister of India in nearly two decades, emphasizes the importance of continued collaboration in various sectors, further enhancing the strategic partnership rooted in shared values and mutual respect.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
