PM Modi receives Nigeria's prestigious GCON award, becomes second foreign dignitary after Queen Elizabeth

In a historic moment for India-Nigeria relations, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been conferred with the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON), Nigeria’s second-highest national honour. This prestigious award was presented to him by Nigerian President Bola Tinubu during a bilateral meeting at the Aso Rock Presidential Villa in Abuja on Saturday, November 17. The award recognises Modi’s outstanding contributions to strengthening India-Nigeria ties and promoting global diplomacy.

This gesture of recognition is particularly significant, as it marks the first time since 2007 that an Indian Prime Minister has visited Nigeria. The country’s strategic partnership with India, initiated during Dr. Manmohan Singh’s state visit, has seen remarkable growth, especially in areas like trade, energy, and defence. President Tinubu emphasised that the award signifies Nigeria’s deep appreciation of India as a partner, and Modi’s visit underscores the growing cooperation between the two nations.

Prime Minister Modi’s arrival in Abuja was greeted with ceremonial honours, including the Indian national anthem, a Guard of Honour, and a 21-gun salute. In his remarks, President Tinubu highlighted the importance of the GCON award, stating it was a recognition of the strong bilateral ties and the shared goals of both nations. The gesture further strengthens the decades-long relationship between India and Nigeria, which continues to expand with each passing year.

This honour is the 17th international award conferred upon Prime Minister Modi, adding to his growing global recognition as a key figure in international diplomacy. The GCON has previously been awarded only to one other foreign dignitary—Queen Elizabeth II in 1969, making Modi the second recipient of this high distinction.

During his visit, Modi and Tinubu are expected to engage in bilateral discussions, focusing on expanding cooperation in vital sectors such as economic development, energy, and defence. This includes the signing of Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) to further deepen Nigeria-India relations. Modi’s visit is seen as a crucial step in enhancing collaboration between the two countries, with over 200 Indian companies having invested over USD 27 billion in Nigeria’s key sectors.

As India and Nigeria work towards mutual growth, the visit is expected to yield significant outcomes that will enhance the bilateral partnership in the years to come. With Modi’s leadership, India is positioned as an influential global player, and this recognition from Nigeria underscores the importance of this strategic relationship.