President Bola Tinubu’s decision to honour Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi with Nigeria’s second-highest national award, the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON), has ignited a political row, with opposition figures accusing the administration of misplaced priorities. The award, presented during the Nigeria-India bilateral meeting in Abuja, was hailed by Tinubu as recognition of India’s “historical partnership” with Nigeria, and Modi received it with promises of support for Nigeria, including 20 tonnes of flood relief supplies.
Yet, the opposition People’s Democratic Party (PDP) was quick to deride the award, with its Deputy National Youth Leader, Timothy Osadolor, dismissing the move as superficial. “This is the second-highest honour in the land, not something to be given out casually for friendship,” Osadolor stated. “Instead of asking Modi how India transformed from a poverty capital to a global tech powerhouse, Tinubu handed out an unnecessary award.”
Osadolor argued that the President missed an opportunity to seek insights from Modi on economic reform and innovation, especially given India’s successes in technology and business. He called for more substance in Nigeria’s diplomatic engagement, saying, “The distraction from this administration is one too many. Tinubu should be asking hard questions about investments and policies that benefit Nigerians.”
In response, Chidi Duru, Deputy National Organising Secretary of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), defended Tinubu’s decision, pointing out that conferring honours on foreign leaders is within presidential discretion. “If it’s within the President’s powers and follows due process, then it’s a valid gesture,” Duru said, encouraging the PDP to focus on constructive opposition. He further added that, instead of criticising, the opposition should engage in dialogue on issues like food security and economic growth.
The visit also attracted support from Dr. Sylvester Okere, a Nigerian security expert based in the United States, who praised the strengthened Indo-Nigerian partnership. Okere, soon to speak at India’s Security Leadership Summit, cited Modi’s visit as “timely,” noting that it could bolster cooperation in security, technology, and education.
However, the controversy underscores a deeper division over Nigeria’s diplomatic priorities and Tinubu’s approach to international relations. With citizens facing economic hardships, Osadolor and other critics argue that symbolic gestures alone are insufficient. “Nigerians need solutions to hunger and economic stagnation,” Osadolor concluded, “not photo ops with foreign dignitaries.”
As Modi’s visit closes, Tinubu’s administration remains steadfast, framing the award as a sign of Nigeria’s commitment to building global alliances, though whether the public sees it as a benefit remains to be seen.
