Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi on Sunday addressed President Bola Tinubu as “Ore mi” a Yoruba phrase which means “My friend” when both men met in Abuja.
Tinubu also conferred on him the national honour of the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON).
This happened during the Nigeria/India bilateral meeting held at the presidential Villa, Abuja.
He said that the award was bestowed on the Indian leader to signify Nigeria’s appreciation and commitment to its partnership with India.
The Nigerian leader added that the invitation to the Indian PM was to rekindle existing relationship between Nigeria and India.
According to him, “Nigeria values its excellent relationship with India, and we work to deepen and broaden the same to the mutual benefit of our two friendly countries.
“You represent a very strong commitment in democratic values and norms, you have been doing a good job historically, winning three consecutive elections in a complex society is a feat that we respect so much.
“I will confer on you today, the Prime Minister of India, Nigeria’s National Honor, the Grand Commander of the Order of Niger. This to signify Nigerian appreciation and commitment to India as a partner.”
Commiserating with Nigeria over the recent floods that ravaged several cities across the country, including the Maiduguri incident, the Indian Prime Minister promised to support Nigeria with 20 tons of relief materials.
Modi said this is to support the administration of President Tinubu on its ongoing humanitarian efforts.
He also met with the Indian community in Abuja.
