Tinubu Confers GCON Award on Indian PM Modi

Deji Elumoye in Abuja 

President Bola Tinubu on Sunday conferred Nigeria’s national honour of the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON), on the visiting Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi.

The president gave the honour during the Nigeria/India Bilateral meeting held at the State House, Abuja.

President Tinubu said the award was bestowed on the Indian leader to show the nation’s appreciation and commitment to the Nigerian-Indian partnership.

The Nigerian president added that the invitation to the Indian PM was to rekindle and reclassify existing relationship between Nigeria and India.

His words: “Nigeria values its excellent relationship with India, and we work to deepen and broaden the same to the mutual benefit of our two friendly countries. 

“You represent a very strong commitment in democratic values and norms, you have been doing a good job historically, winning three consecutive elections in a complex society is a feat that we respect so much.

“I will confer on you today, the Prime Minister of India, Nigeria’s National Honour, the Grand Commander of the Order of Niger. This to signify Nigerian appreciation and commitment to India as a partner.”

On his part, the Indian PM commiserated 

 with Nigeria over the recent floods that ravaged several cities across the country, including the Maiduguri major flood incident, with a  promise to support Nigeria with 20 tonnes of relief materials.

Modi said this is to support the administration of President Tinubu on its ongoing humanitarian efforts.

Details later…