Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Nigeria as part of a three-nation tour, emphasizing India’s commitment to its strategic partnership with Nigeria. He highlighted humanitarian assistance efforts, the role of the Indian expatriate community, and the significance of the African Union’s inclusion in the G20. The ties between India and Nigeria span over sixty years, with India investing significantly in the Nigerian economy.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi commenced his three-nation tour with a visit to Nigeria, underscoring the nation’s commitment to fostering a strategic partnership with the West African country. Upon his arrival in Abuja, PM Modi emphasized that India places a significant priority on enhancing bilateral ties, which have been formally recognized as a strategic partnership since 2007. He expressed confidence that his discussions with Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu would herald a new phase in their collaboration. During this visit, PM Modi also highlighted India’s ongoing humanitarian efforts, noting the delivery of 20 tonnes of relief supplies to those affected by recent flooding in Nigeria. He acknowledged the contributions of the Indian expatriate community in Nigeria, which is the largest in West Africa, referring to them as a “key pillar” in the relationship between the two nations. Furthermore, he celebrated the historical inclusion of the African Union as a permanent member of the G20, articulated during the recent summit in New Delhi. The India-Nigeria relationship has spanned over sixty years, with significant diplomatic ties initiated in 1958, prior to Nigeria’s independence from British colonial rule. With over 200 Indian companies investing around $27 billion in crucial manufacturing sectors, India has become the second-largest employer in Nigeria, following the federal government. This growing economic partnership reflects the longstanding and deep-rooted ties between the countries as they seek to foster mutual growth and cooperation.
The significance of the India-Nigeria relationship was elevated to a strategic partnership status during the tenure of then Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh, marking a historical milestone in bilateral relations. Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit, which is the first by an Indian prime minister in 17 years, signifies a renewed focus on strengthening these ties. Over the years, India has established itself as a vital economic partner to Nigeria, with substantial investments and a large Indian expatriate community contributing to the socio-economic landscape of the host nation.
In conclusion, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Nigeria represents a pivotal moment in the long-standing relationship between India and Nigeria. By emphasizing the importance of their strategic partnership, the ongoing humanitarian efforts, and the substantial economic engagements, both nations are poised to enter a new chapter of collaborative growth and prosperity. This visit not only reaffirms India’s commitment to its African partners but also highlights the historical ties that continue to evolve.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
