Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Nigeria accentuates India’s dedication to strengthening its strategic partnership. Key announcements included humanitarian aid for flood-affected communities and recognition of the Indian diaspora’s role in fostering bilateral relations. India’s investment in Nigeria is significant, totaling $27 billion from over 200 companies, reflecting longstanding and fruitful ties between the nations.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized India’s commitment to enhancing its strategic partnership with Nigeria during his visit to Abuja, marking the first engagement of a sitting Indian Prime Minister to the country in 17 years. Speaking alongside President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, PM Modi expressed optimism about the future of bilateral relations, stating, “We give high priority to our strategic partnership with Nigeria…I am confident that a new chapter in our ties will begin following our talks.” During this visit, which is part of a broader three-nation tour including Brazil and Guyana, PM Modi highlighted India’s humanitarian efforts by announcing the dispatch of 20 tonnes of relief supplies for flood-affected communities in Nigeria. He recognized the vibrant Indian diaspora in Nigeria, noting that the 60,000-strong community serves as a vital link between the two nations. Furthermore, Modi acknowledged the African Union’s recent inclusion as a permanent member of the G20, celebrating it as a significant milestone. The strategic partnership between India and Nigeria was formally established over 15 years ago during a visit by then-Prime Minister Manmohan Singh in 2007. Currently, over 200 Indian companies have invested approximately $27 billion in Nigeria, making them the second-largest employers in the country, after the federal government.
India and Nigeria have maintained a robust relationship spanning more than six decades, which formalized with the opening of India’s diplomatic mission in Nigeria in 1958. This close collaboration led to the designation of Nigeria as a strategic partner of India in 2007, enabling both nations to engage more profoundly in economic, social, and political realms. The growing Indian community in Nigeria plays a pivotal role in solidifying these ties, reinforcing cultural and economic exchanges between the countries.
In conclusion, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Nigeria underscores India’s strategic commitment to enhancing bilateral ties with the African nation. Highlighting humanitarian support and collaboration, as well as acknowledging the vibrant Indian community, the visit seeks to inaugurate a new phase in India-Nigeria relations that could foster congruence in diverse sectors. The historical context of this partnership, rooted in diplomatic relations since before Nigeria’s independence, further underscores its significance in the contemporary geopolitical landscape.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
