In a historic gesture that highlights the growing relationship between Nigeria and India, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was conferred with the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON) on Sunday, November 17, 2024. The award, Nigeria’s second highest national honour, was presented to Modi by Nigerian President Bola Tinubu during a special ceremony in Abuja.
President Tinubu hailed Modi as a “friend of Nigeria,” underscoring the decades-long partnership between the two countries. “It is our hope that this honour will spur renewed cooperation between Nigeria and India in all sectors,” Tinubu said, stressing the importance of the award in deepening the two nations’ ties.
A Symbol of Friendship and Cooperation
The prestigious award was presented at a working lunch attended by members of both Nigerian and Indian delegations. During the event, Prime Minister Modi expressed his gratitude, dedicating the honour to the 1.4 billion people of India. He noted that the recognition would inspire both countries to strengthen their strategic partnership.
“This honour will continue to inspire us to take the India-Nigeria strategic partnership to new heights,” Modi said, further emphasizing the shared values of mutual cooperation and respect between the two nations.
The bilateral relations between Nigeria and India have flourished over the years, with the two countries working together on numerous fronts, including trade, education, and technology. Modi recognized the efforts made by Nigeria and praised the country for its positive role in Africa. “As a friend, Nigeria has always shared with India,” he added.
Building a Stronger Future Together
In his remarks, President Tinubu celebrated Nigeria’s fruitful relationship with India, commending Modi’s leadership and India’s contributions to various global initiatives. “You represent a very strong commitment in democratic values and norms,” Tinubu said. He went on to highlight India’s success in managing democratic processes and its transformative economic leadership.
Both leaders also reflected on their recent engagement in September 2023 during President Tinubu’s visit to India. Modi reaffirmed that his state visit to Nigeria would further cement their historical ties. He particularly highlighted the importance of the Indian community in Nigeria, which numbers over 60,000 people. Modi expressed gratitude for the warm hospitality shown by the Nigerian government, calling the Indian community in Nigeria a vital link between the two nations.
A Partnership for the Future
The Nigerian and Indian governments also signed several key agreements during the visit, including Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) on cultural exchange, customs cooperation, and collaboration between Surveyor-Generals of both countries. Modi’s visit also underscored the mutual desire for deeper cooperation in key sectors such as defence, counter-terrorism, maritime security, technology, and economic development.
“We accord a high priority to our strategic partnership with Nigeria,” Modi declared. “Our cooperation is very strong, and there are many new possibilities for us to take this cooperation forward.”
Support in Times of Need
In a further demonstration of India’s commitment to Nigeria, Prime Minister Modi announced the dispatch of 20 tonnes of humanitarian aid to Nigeria to assist with flood relief efforts in the country. This gesture was warmly welcomed by President Tinubu, who expressed his gratitude for India’s swift response to Nigeria’s challenges.
Modi also praised Nigeria’s growing influence on the global stage, particularly its participation as a guest country at the G20 Summit in 2023, under India’s presidency. Additionally, he welcomed Nigeria’s recognition as a partner country in BRICS and the African Union’s induction into the G20, describing these milestones as significant achievements for both nations.