Strengthening Ties: PM Modi Highlights India-Nigeria Strategic Partnership

During his visit to Nigeria, PM Modi emphasized India’s commitment to strengthening ties with Nigeria, marking a significant diplomatic engagement after 17 years. The partnership spans various sectors, including defense, energy, and education, while addressing mutual challenges such as terrorism and providing humanitarian assistance. The visit aims to enhance cooperation and promote the interests of the Global South.

During his recent visit to Nigeria, Prime Minister Narendra Modi underscored the significance of India-Nigeria relations, asserting, “We give high priority to our strategic partnership with Nigeria.” Modi highlighted the extensive and diverse collaboration between the two nations, encompassing sectors such as defense, energy, finance, technology, healthcare, education, and culture. This visit is particularly noteworthy as it marks the first occasion an Indian prime minister has visited Nigeria in 17 years, reflecting renewed diplomatic engagement. The Prime Minister discussed ongoing collaborative efforts to address pressing challenges such as terrorism, separatism, piracy, and drug smuggling, expressing commitment to strengthen these initiatives. Furthermore, he mentioned India’s recent provision of humanitarian aid, stating, “We have been sending 20 tonnes of relief supplies for people hit by last month’s floods.” Modi emphasized that this meeting would inaugurate a new chapter in India-Nigeria relations aimed at promoting priorities pertinent to the Global South. Upon his arrival in Abuja, PM Modi recognized the substantial role of the Indian diaspora, numbering approximately 60,000, in fostering ties between India and Nigeria, referring to them as a “key pillar” of the partnership. He also acknowledged the African Union’s elevation to permanent member status within the G20, describing it as a noteworthy achievement. India and Nigeria, enjoying a robust partnership for over six decades, established India’s first diplomatic mission in Nigeria in 1958, prior to Nigeria’s independence, and elevated their cooperation to a strategic level during Dr. Manmohan Singh’s 2007 visit. With over 200 Indian enterprises investing approximately $27 billion in key manufacturing sectors, India holds the position of the second-largest employer in Nigeria, following the federal government.

The diplomatic relations between India and Nigeria date back to the establishment of India’s first diplomatic mission in Nigeria in 1958, two years before Nigeria gained independence. Over the past sixty years, both countries have cultivated a multifaceted partnership, which escalated to a strategic level during the tenure of former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh in 2007. Notably, India’s economic engagement has been considerable, with a significant number of Indian firms operating in Nigeria, which underscores the importance of these bilateral relations.

In conclusion, Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Nigeria represents a pivotal moment in the ongoing partnership between India and Nigeria. With a focus on strengthening cooperation, addressing shared challenges, and enhancing humanitarian efforts, both nations are poised to embark on a new phase of collaboration that leverages their strategic partnership. This visit not only reaffirms India’s commitment to Nigeria but also highlights the integral role of the Indian diaspora and the broader implications for the Global South.

Original Source: www.wionews.com