Prime Minister Narendra Modi made a landmark visit to Nigeria, the first by an Indian leader in 17 years, to strengthen bilateral ties. He received the Key to Abuja and will be awarded the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger. The visit also includes participation in the G20 Summit in Brazil and a follow-up trip to Guyana.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Nigeria on Sunday, marking the first visit by an Indian prime minister to the country in 17 years, upon the invitation of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. This visit comprises the initial segment of a three-nation tour, which will subsequently take him to Brazil and Guyana. The discussions between PM Modi and President Tinubu are anticipated to revolve around enhancing bilateral relations and fostering cooperation across critical sectors. Upon his arrival, PM Modi received an enthusiastic welcome, notably being presented with the ‘Key to the City’ of Abuja by the Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike. The Indian Ministry of External Affairs remarked that the key symbolizes the honor and trust that the Nigerian people have bestowed upon the Prime Minister. This visit is historically significant as it represents PM Modi’s first tour of the West African region. Further emphasizing the importance of this visit, Nigeria plans to bestow upon him the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON), the nation’s second-highest honor, making him only the second foreign dignitary to receive it, after Queen Elizabeth in 1969. This marks the 17th international award conferred upon PM Modi by various countries. During his trip, PM Modi will participate in the 19th G20 Summit in Brazil alongside other world leaders, including Chinese President Xi Jinping and U.S. President Joe Biden, on November 18-19, as India is a current member of the G20 Troika alongside Brazil and South Africa. The final segment of the visit will see him travel to Guyana from November 19 to 21, also at the invitation of President Mohamed Irfaan Ali, which marks a monumental occasion as it is the first visit by an Indian prime minister to that nation in over five decades.
The visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Nigeria holds remarkable significance as it is the first such visit in 17 years, marking a pivotal moment in India-Nigeria relations. Nigeria is a crucial player in Africa, and this visit seeks to strengthen strategic partnerships between the two nations, particularly in sectors essential for mutual development and cooperation. Accompanying this visit is the prospect of prestigious awards, further highlighting the diplomatic ties and respect shared between the countries.
In conclusion, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s historic visit to Nigeria signifies a commitment to strengthening India-Nigeria relations and enhancing cooperation in vital sectors. The awarding of the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger exemplifies the esteem in which India is held by Nigeria. As PM Modi proceeds with his itinerary, including attendance at the G20 Summit and subsequent visits to Brazil and Guyana, the trip embodies a renewed focus on international collaboration and respect between nations.
Original Source: www.outlookindia.com
