Nigeria's 'Grand Commander Of Order' Award To PM Modi Recognition Of His Leadership: Jaishankar

Abuja: External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar said on Monday that conferment of Nigeria's national award 'Grand Commander of Order of Niger' on Prime Minister Narendra Modi was a recognition of PM Modi's leership in furring partnerships with Global South and also underlines special ties between India and Nigeria.

Jaishankar said he was privileged to witness conferment of 'Grand Commander of Order of Niger' on PM Modi.

"A recognition of PM Modi's leership and commitment in furring partnerships with Global South. Also underlines special ties of friendship between India and Nigeria," he said in a post on X.

In a ceremony at State House, Nigeria President Bola Ahmed Tinubu conferred "Grand Commander of Order of Niger" on PM Modi for his statesmanship and stellar contribution to fostering India-Nigeria ties. award citation notes that under Prime Minister's visionary leership, India has been positioned as a global powerhouse, and his transformative governance has fostered unity, peace and shared prosperity for all.

While accepting award, Prime Minister dedicated honour to people of India and to longstanding, historical friendship between India and Nigeria. He furr stated that recognition underscores Strategic Partnership between two countries and ir shared commitment to aspirations of Global South.

PM Modi is first foreign leer to be conferred with this award since 1969.

Prime Minister embarked on a five-day visit to Nigeria, Brazil and Guyana on November 16. Nigeria is India's close partner in West African region.

Prime Minister's visit provided an opportunity to build upon Strategic Partnership that is based on shared belief in democracy and pluralism between India and Nigeria.