PM Modi Makes Historic Visit to Nigeria on Three-Nation Tour

Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Nigeria for the first leg of his three-nation visit, marking the first trip by an Indian leader to the country in 17 years. He is expected to strengthen bilateral relations with Nigeria, with future travels to Brazil for the G20 Summit and a visit to Guyana.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi embarked on his inaugural visit to the West African region, arriving in Nigeria as the first leg of his three-nation tour, which will also include Brazil and Guyana. This visit marks the first official trip by an Indian prime minister to Nigeria in 17 years, and was undertaken at the invitation of Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Upon arrival in Abuja, PM Modi received a warm reception, including being presented with the ‘Key to the City’ by Minister for Federal Capital Territory Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, symbolizing the trust placed in him by the Nigerian populace. In his welcome address on social media, President Tinubu expressed anticipation for discussions aimed at fortifying the strategic partnership between India and Nigeria, focusing on enhanced cooperation in vital sectors. Prime Minister Modi reciprocated the sentiment by expressing gratitude for the warm welcome he received and highlighted his eagerness to meet the Indian community and friends from Nigeria, reflecting on their kind messages sent in Hindi. During his visit, PM Modi intends to bolster the existing strategic partnership based on common democratic values and pluralism. Following Nigeria, he is scheduled to travel to Brazil, where he will participate in the 19th G20 Summit alongside leaders such as Chinese President Xi Jinping and US President Joe Biden on November 18-19. His tour will conclude with a visit to Guyana, marking the first visit by an Indian prime minister to this nation in over 50 years.

The significance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Nigeria lies in its symbolic breakthrough in bilateral relations, underscoring India’s commitment to strengthening partnerships in Africa. This visit is particularly noteworthy as it is the first time in 17 years that an Indian prime minister has made a trip to Nigeria, indicating a renewed focus on diplomatic ties and economic collaboration. Furthermore, this journey is part of a broader engagement with multiple countries in the context of growing geopolitical dynamics, particularly in light of India’s role in global platforms like the G20.

In summary, PM Modi’s first visit to Nigeria, as part of a three-nation tour, heralds a new chapter in India-Nigeria relations. It presents a crucial opportunity for both nations to enhance their strategic partnership and collaborate in important sectors. Modi’s engagement in this visit further emphasizes India’s expanding diplomatic footprint in Africa and its commitment to fostering global partnerships, particularly as he approaches significant events such as the G20 Summit in Brazil.

Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com