Prime Minister Narendra Modi kicked off the first leg of his three-nation visit by addressing the Indian community in Nigeria on Sunday. Opening his speech with a warm ‘Sannu, Nigeria’, which translates to the traditional Nigerian greeting of ‘Hello’, Modi endeared himself to the audience while highlighting the deep cultural and historical ties between India and Nigeria.

PM Modi highlighted the enduring bond between India and Nigeria, emphasising shared values of democracy and diversity in his address to the Indian diaspora. He further conveyed heartfelt sentiments from India, stating, “I have brought with me the fragrance of Indian soil and many good wishes for all of you on behalf of crores of Indians.”

He also expressed pride in India's progress, noting that the achievements of the country make every Indian, including himself, feel proud. He acknowledged the significant contributions of the Indian diaspora to both India and Nigeria, emphasising the shared sense of accomplishment among the community.

PM Modi Receives Nigeria’s Highest Civilian Honour, GCON

Prime Minister Modi was awarded the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON), Nigeria's highest civilian honour. He became the second foreign dignitary to receive the GCON, after Queen Elizabeth, who was awarded the same distinction in 1969. 

"I am extremely glad after getting conferred with 'Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger', and I would like to thank the Nigerian government for this. I dedicate this award to 140 crore Indian nationals and the deep friendship that is between India and Nigeria," said PM Modi

Modi Announces India’s Space Station During Nigerian Address

PM Modi emphasised India’s transformation, highlighting the nation's embrace of innovation and its new identity centred on progress. He shared the vision of a ‘Viksit Bharat’ (Developed India) and praised the rapid expansion of India’s startup ecosystem, which now boasts over 150,000 registered startups. 

PM Modi, while addressing the Indian diaspora in Abuja, Nigeria, announced India’s growing defence exports, which have surged nearly 30-fold and now reach over 100 countries. He also highlighted India’s space ambitions, revealing plans for the Gaganyaan mission to send Indians into space and the establishment of an Indian space station in the near future.

PM Modi also expressed condolences for the lives lost in the devastating floods in Nigeria last month. During a meeting with Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Modi announced that India would send 20 tons of humanitarian aid to assist with the ongoing relief efforts. He conveyed the support of 140 crore Indians, emphasising India's commitment to aiding Nigeria in its time of crisis.