JUST IN: TINUBU CONFERS GCON ON INDIAN PM MODI

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President Bola Tinubu has conferred Nigeria’s second-highest national honour, the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger on Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Tinubu made the announcement during a bilateral meeting with the Indian leader at the Aso Rock Presidential Villa, Abuja.

The President stated that the honour was “to signify our appreciation of India as Nigeria’s partner.”

Modi, who arrived in Abuja on Saturday evening, was received at the forecourt of the Villa at around 10:20 a.m. on Sunday.

Upon arrival, the Indian leader was welcomed with the Indian anthem, after which a Guard of Honour, mounted by a Brigade of Guards, rendered the Nigerian anthem and led the visiting PM in an inspection of the mounted parade.

This was followed by a 21-gun salute, after which Modi inspected the Guard of Honour.

Tinubu then led him into his office for closed-door talks.

Both leaders are expected to discuss and sign several bilateral agreements during their private meeting.

According to the Presidency, Tinubu and Modi will seek to further strengthen Nigeria-India ties during this visit.

“President Tinubu and Prime Minister Modi will aim to deepen Nigeria’s and India’s ties during their bilateral discussions.

“Both leaders will exchange signed Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) to enhance collaboration in critical sectors,” the Presidency said on Saturday.

Modi’s visit is the first by an Indian PM since Dr Manmohan Singh’s state visit in 2007 when the two nations established a strategic partnership.

Details later…