Prime Minister Narendra Modi was awarded Nigeria's second-highest national honor, the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON), on Sunday, making him only the second foreign dignitary to receive this prestigious distinction. In his acceptance speech, Modi expressed his gratitude, dedicating the award to the people of India, and said he was "honored" to receive it.
This marks the 17th international award conferred upon Modi by a foreign country. Queen Elizabeth II remains the only other foreign dignitary to have been bestowed with the GCON, having received it in 1969.
Modi's visit to Nigeria, which is part of a three-nation trip, is significant as it is the first by an Indian prime minister to the country in 17 years. On his arrival in Nigeria, he was warmly welcomed by Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, the Minister for Federal Capital Territory, who presented him with the 'Key to the City' of Abuja. The Ministry of External Affairs highlighted that the key symbolized the trust and honor placed upon Modi by the Nigerian people.
Following his stay in Nigeria, Modi will travel to Brazil to participate in the G20 summit before concluding his tour with a visit to Guyana.
