Prime Minister Narendra Modi was conferred the national award – “Grand Commander of the Order of Niger” on 17th November 2024 in a ceremony at the State House by the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

PM Modi was honoured by Nigeria for his statesmanship and stellar contribution to fostering India-Nigeria ties. The award citation noted that under Prime Minister’s visionary leadership, India has been positioned as a global powerhouse, and his transformative governance has fostered unity, peace and shared prosperity for all.

Accepting the award, Prime Minister Modi dedicated the honour to the people of India and to the longstanding, historical friendship between India and Nigeria. He further stated that the recognition underscores the Strategic Partnership between the two countries and their shared commitment to the aspirations of the Global South.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is the first foreign leader to be conferred with this award since 1969.