PM Modi honoured with Nigeria's second-highest civilian award, first foreign dignitary after Queen Elizabeth

PM Narendra Modi is on a three-nation visit scheduled from November 17 to November 21. On the first leg of his visit, he reached Nigeria today. This visit is the first by an Indian prime minister to Nigeria in 17 years. He will also visit Brazil and Guyana.

The President of Nigeria on Sunday Bola Ahmed Tinubu conferred the Grand Commander of The Order of the Niger (GCON) on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in Abuja. PM Modi became the first foreign dignitary to receive the award after Queen Elizabeth who received it in 1969. The latest award marks the 17th international award being conferred to PM Modi by any country.

Upon receiving the GNOC award, PM Modi said, "This award will keep inspiring us to take the India-Nigeria strategic partnership to new heights." "I express heartfelt gratitude to you, the Government of Nigeria and the people for Nigeria's national award, Grand Commander of The Order of the Niger (GCON). I accept this honour humbly and respectfully. I dedicate this honour to 140 Crore Indians and the deep friendship of India and Nigeria."

During his address, PM Modi further said, "The relations of India and Nigeria are based on cooperation, goodwill and mutual respect. In the form of two vibrant democracies and dynamic economies, together we will work for the benefit of the people of both countries. In both countries, social and cultural diversity is our identity, they are our strength."

Bilateral discussions on new avenues of cooperation

PM Modi also recalled the Nigerian President's visit to India last year adding that it bolstered the relations. The PM said, "With the visit of President Tinubu to India last year, a new aspect has been added to our relations. Today, detailed discussions were held to further strengthen and widen our mutual cooperation."

"We have identified new possibilities in the economy, energy, agriculture, security, fintech, small and medium state enterprises and cultural areas. As a close and trusted partner, special emphasis will be placed on skill development and capacity building as per the necessities of the people of Nigeria."

"The members of the Indian diaspora living in Nigeria are important links in our relations. I express heartfelt gratitude to President Tinubu and his Government for looking after them."

One-on-one, delegation-level meetings held

Providing details about the meetings between leaders of both nations, Secretary (ER) Dammu Ravi said, "The two leaders held talks in two formats. First, a one-on-one meeting, and then, a delegation-level meeting. The Prime Minister and President reaffirmed their support and commitment to strengthening the India-Nigeria Strategic Partnership... The two leaders discussed bilateral cooperation in trade, investment, defence, security, education, health, culture, and people-to-people relations at the delegation level talks."