Nigeria honored Prime Minister Narendra Modi with its highest national award, Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON), during his first official visit to the country. Nigerian President Bola Tinubu presented the award at a bilateral meeting held at Aso Rock Villa, the Nigerian Presidential residence and office.
President Tinubu praised PM Modi for his leadership and commitment to democratic values. “Winning three consecutive elections in a complex society is a remarkable feat we deeply respect,” he said. Tinubu emphasized Nigeria’s appreciation of its strong partnership with India.
PM Modi Joins Elite Group
This marks the second time a foreign dignitary has received the GCON award. The only prior recipient was Queen Elizabeth in 1969. The honor reflects the strengthening India-Nigeria relationship and India’s growing global influence under PM Modi’s leadership.
Earlier this week, Dominica announced its highest national honor, the ‘Dominica Award of Honour,’ for PM Modi. Dominica recognized his support during the Covid-19 pandemic and his commitment to India-Dominica relations.
Record 17 International Awards
With the GCON, PM Modi’s tally of top international honors now stands at 17. These include awards from countries like Saudi Arabia, Russia, UAE, France, and Egypt. Additionally, PM Modi has received global accolades like the UN Champions of the Earth Award and the Seoul Peace Prize for his contributions to environmental leadership and global harmony.
PM Modi’s recognition underscores India’s rising diplomatic stature and his influential leadership on the global stage.
