Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to Nigeria emphasizes India’s commitment to strengthening its strategic partnership with Nigeria across various sectors. This historic visit, the first by an Indian Prime Minister in 17 years, focuses on addressing shared challenges such as terrorism and highlights the importance of the Indian diaspora. Modi’s discussions with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu aim to open new avenues for cooperation and advocates for the priorities of the Global South.
During his official visit to Nigeria, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reaffirmed India’s commitment to cultivating its strategic partnership with Nigeria. Addressing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, he emphasized the significance of collaborative efforts across various sectors, including defense, energy, finance, technology, health, education, and culture. This visit marks the first by an Indian Prime Minister to Nigeria in 17 years, reflecting a re-energization of bilateral relations. Prime Minister Modi highlighted the shared challenges both nations face, such as terrorism and drug smuggling, while also acknowledging India’s recent humanitarian efforts which included sending 20 tonnes of relief supplies to flood-affected regions. He expressed optimism that their discussions would pave the way for a new chapter in India-Nigeria relations, particularly in advocating for the priorities of the Global South. Upon his arrival in Abuja, he recognized the crucial role of the Indian diaspora—numbering around 60,000—in strengthening ties between the two countries. Modi referred to the African Union’s inclusion as a permanent member of the G20 during the recent summit in New Delhi as a noteworthy achievement for increased representation. The diplomatic relationship between India and Nigeria has been longstanding, dating back to the establishment of India’s first diplomatic mission in Nigeria in 1958, just prior to Nigeria’s independence. The partnership was elevated to a strategic level during Dr. Manmohan Singh’s tenure in 2007, and today, over 200 Indian companies have invested approximately $27 billion in Nigeria, making significant contributions to its economy.
The bilateral ties between India and Nigeria have been robust for over sixty years, marked by shared objectives and mutual interests. India opened its first diplomatic mission in Nigeria in 1958, two years before the nation’s independence, establishing a framework for collaboration. The relationship was significantly enhanced to a strategic partnership in 2007, focusing on various domains such as defense and economic engagement. Today, the Indian diaspora in Nigeria serves as an essential link in fostering these connections, further supported by India’s significant investment in key sectors of the Nigerian economy.
In summary, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Nigeria is a pivotal step towards strengthening the long-standing partnership between the two nations. With a focus on addressing mutual challenges and enhancing economic collaboration, this visit aims to initiate a new phase in bilateral relations. The role of the Indian diaspora and recent global developments, such as the African Union’s G20 inclusion, further underscore the importance of this strategic partnership for both countries.
Original Source: www.wionews.com
