Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Nigeria to reinforce India-Nigeria relations, emphasizing strategic cooperation in defense, energy, and technology. The visit marks the first by an Indian prime minister in 17 years. Modi highlighted India’s humanitarian support and the importance of the Indian diaspora in Nigeria, aiming to elevate their partnership further in addressing mutual challenges.
During his landmark visit to Nigeria, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi reaffirmed India’s commitment to strengthening its strategic partnership with Nigeria. Meeting with Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in Abuja, PM Modi highlighted the significance of their cooperation across various sectors, including defense, energy, technology, and healthcare. This visit is notably the first by an Indian prime minister to Nigeria in 17 years, underscoring the evolving dynamics in their bilateral relations. PM Modi expressed that the partnership with Nigeria is a priority for India, stating, “We give high priority to our strategic partnership with Nigeria. We have strong cooperation in several sectors like defence, energy, financial issues, technology, health, education, and culture.” He also addressed mutual efforts in combating challenges such as terrorism and piracy. Furthermore, he highlighted India’s recent humanitarian aid in response to flooding in Nigeria, noting, “We have been sending 20 tonnes of relief supplies for people hit by last month’s floods.” PM Modi expressed optimism that the current discussions will open new avenues in their relationship. He emphasized the importance of the 60,000-strong Indian diaspora, calling them a key pillar in enhancing relations between the two nations. The Indian prime minister also alluded to the African Union’s recent status as a permanent G20 member, portraying this development as a significant win for both Nigeria and its regional partners. The relationship between India and Nigeria has flourished for over six decades, beginning with the establishment of diplomatic ties in 1958, just prior to Nigeria’s independence. With more than $27 billion invested by over 200 Indian companies in Nigeria, making India the second-largest employer in the nation after the federal government, the economic engagement highlights a vibrant and mutually beneficial partnership.
India and Nigeria share a long-established relationship that has evolved significantly since the inception of diplomatic ties in 1958. Over the decades, both nations have forged a strategic partnership encompassing various sectors critical to national development and security. The Indian diaspora in Nigeria has also played a vital role in sustaining and enriching these ties. Furthermore, India’s substantial economic investments in Nigeria reflect both countries’ commitment to mutual growth and development.
In summary, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to Nigeria marks a pivotal moment in India-Nigeria relations, reinforcing the importance of their strategic partnership. The discussions highlighted substantial cooperation in vital sectors, shared challenges, and humanitarian initiatives, emphasizing the role of the diaspora in bridging cultural ties. This visit is a testament to the enduring and dynamic relationship between the two nations with promising prospects for the future.
Original Source: www.wionews.com
