President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has conferred the national honour of Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON) on Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during a bilateral discussion at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.

The GCON, Nigeria’s second-highest national honour, was presented as a gesture of appreciation and recognition of India as a strategic partner. “This honour reflects Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening ties with India in shared respect and mutual goals,” Tinubu said.

Prime Minister Modi arrived in Abuja on Saturday, marking the first visit by an Indian prime minister to Nigeria in nearly two decades. During a formal reception at Aso Rock on Sunday, Modi was honored with the Indian and Nigerian national anthems, an inspection of the honor guard, and a parade by the Brigade of Guards.

Tinubu emphasized that the strengthened bilateral relationship would boost cooperation across sectors. Modi, in his acceptance speech, dedicated the GCON to the 1.4 billion citizens of India and highlighted the deep friendship between the two nations. “This honour will inspire us to elevate the India-Nigeria partnership,” he said.

The two leaders signed several Memoranda of Understanding, including agreements on cultural exchange, customs cooperation, and collaboration between the surveyor-generals of both nations. Modi also announced the dispatch of 20 tonnes of humanitarian aid to support Nigeria’s flood relief efforts.

Praising Modi’s leadership, Tinubu noted his transformative governance in India and his success in winning three consecutive elections. He said, “India’s economic progress under your leadership is a model of democratic values and governance.”

With over 60,000 Indians residing in Nigeria, Modi described the Indian community as a vital bridge between the nations. He reaffirmed India’s commitment to collaboration in defense, counter-terrorism, maritime security, technology, and economic development, adding that both countries will work together to advance the priorities of the Global South.

The visit follows Nigeria’s participation in the G20 Summit as a guest and its recognition as a partner country in BRICS. Modi lauded these developments as opportunities to deepen cooperation between the two nations.