India Prioritizes Strategic Partnership with Nigeria: PM Modi’s Visit

Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted India’s high priority on its strategic partnership with Nigeria during his recent visit, the first by an Indian leader in 17 years. He underscored India’s commitment to humanitarian assistance and the importance of the Indian expatriate community in fostering bilateral ties, marking a significant moment in India-Nigeria relations.

During his recent visit to Nigeria, Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the importance of the strategic partnership between India and Nigeria, stating that it is accorded high priority by the Indian government. This visit marks the first by an Indian Prime Minister to Nigeria in 17 years and is part of Modi’s broader three-nation tour, which will also take him to Brazil and Guyana. In his discussions with Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Modi expressed confidence that the conversations would herald a new chapter in bilateral relations. He highlighted India’s humanitarian efforts, sharing that India had dispatched 20 tonnes of relief supplies to assist those affected by last month’s floods in Nigeria. Upon his arrival in Abuja, Modi recognized the significant contribution of the Indian diaspora in Nigeria, which he described as a “key pillar” in the relationship between the two nations. He acknowledged the historic elevation of India-Nigeria ties to a strategic partnership during a visit by then-Prime Minister Manmohan Singh in 2007, reflecting a longstanding bond that has developed over more than six decades since India’s first diplomatic mission in Nigeria was established in 1958. In terms of trade and investment, over 200 Indian companies have invested approximately $27 billion across vital manufacturing sectors in Nigeria, making India one of the largest job providers in the country after the federal government.

The relationship between India and Nigeria is anchored in mutual cooperation across various sectors, including economy, trade, and culture. The designation of their relationship as a strategic partnership in 2007 has provided a framework for deepening ties. India’s historical connections with Nigeria date back to the establishment of diplomatic missions prior to Nigeria’s independence from British colonial rule. With robust economic investments and a significant Indian expatriate community, the partnership continues to flourish against a backdrop of shared interests and collaborative goals at international forums, such as the G20.

In conclusion, Prime Minister Modi’s remarks during his visit to Nigeria underscore India’s commitment to strengthening its strategic partnership with Nigeria, addressing both humanitarian needs and economic collaboration. The visit not only signifies a diplomatic milestone but also sets the stage for future initiatives aimed at fostering deeper ties between the two nations, reflecting a shared vision for growth and cooperation.

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