The Republic of Niger has honoured six Nigerians with national honours in recognition of their roles in the promotion of better relations between both countries.
Those honoured were two Nigerian Governors, two Presidential aides and two businessmen.
This took place on Wednesday at Niger republic’s Independence Day, which is commemorated on August 3, each year.
The day is set aside to mark the nation’s independence from France in 1960 and since 1975 has been recognised as “tree planting day” as trees are planted across the nation to aid the fight against desertification.
In giving the awards, President Mohammed Bazoum said his country cherished Nigeria as one of its closest neighbours and friends.
Those honoured were Governors Badaru Abubakar of Jigawwa State and his Zamfara State counterpart, Mohammed Bello Matawalle.
Others were the Senior Special Assistant (Household and Domestic Affairs) to the President, Sarki Abba, and the State Chief of Protocol, Ambassador Lawal Kazaure.
Businessmen who received the honours were Alhaji Aliko Dangote, President of Dangote Group and Abdulsamad Rabi’u, President of BUA Group, and they were awarded the “Order of Merit of Niger, Great Master of National Awards.”
President Bazoum praised the efforts of Nigerians who had made great strides in increasing understanding between the two nations and for acting as agents of social and economic development.
Dominica Nwabufo
