In a historic gesture of recognition and diplomatic solidarity, Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has conferred the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON), Nigeria’s second-highest national honour, on Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The award was presented in a special ceremony held at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, marking a significant milestone in the growing relationship between Nigeria and India.
The conferment of the GCON is a reflection of Prime Minister Modi’s outstanding contributions to strengthening global peace, enhancing bilateral ties between Nigeria and India, and advancing development across various sectors. The recognition also highlights India’s leadership on the world stage, especially in areas of economic growth, technology, and diplomacy.
In his remarks during the ceremony, President Tinubu commended Prime Minister Modi for his visionary leadership and his pivotal role in fostering robust ties between the two nations. “Today, we celebrate not only the friendship between Nigeria and India but also the deepening collaboration in trade, investment, and cultural exchange. Prime Minister Modi has been an exemplary partner in our collective quest for prosperity and global progress,” said President Tinubu.
Prime Minister Modi, in his acceptance speech, expressed deep gratitude for the honour, emphasizing the long-standing friendship between Nigeria and India. He remarked, “This recognition is not only a personal achievement, but also a testament to the strength of the India-Nigeria partnership. We share a vision for a more inclusive and prosperous world, and I look forward to continuing our joint efforts to uplift both our nations and the broader international community.”
The event was attended by senior government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, and business leaders, further underscoring the growing importance of India-Nigeria relations. In recent years, the two countries have collaborated on numerous initiatives in sectors such as energy, technology, agriculture, and education, with a focus on enhancing bilateral trade and investment.