Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Nigeria highlights India’s commitment to its strategic partnership with the country. During a bilateral meeting with President Tinubu, Modi emphasized enhancing cooperation, humanitarian aid efforts for flood victims, and the significant role of the Indian diaspora. This visit, part of a three-nation tour, marks the first by an Indian premier in 17 years and signifies the longstanding ties between the two nations.
On a significant diplomatic mission, Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Nigeria as part of a three-nation tour, which will also include Brazil and Guyana. During his visit, he emphasized that India places a “high priority” on strengthening its strategic partnership with Nigeria. This diplomatic engagement marks a notable occasion as it is the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Nigeria in 17 years. In his initial remarks during a bilateral meeting with Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, PM Modi expressed confidence that their discussions would usher in a new phase of cooperation between the two nations. He underscored the importance of the Indian diaspora in Nigeria, describing the country’s 60,000-strong Indian community as a crucial element in the bilateral relationship. Furthermore, PM Modi highlighted India’s humanitarian efforts, informing that 20 tonnes of relief supplies have been dispatched for individuals affected by recent floods in Nigeria. His visit also coincides with India’s push for a significant initiative at the recent G20 summit held in New Delhi, where the inclusion of the African Union as a permanent member of the bloc was a key highlight. The historical context of India-Nigeria ties reveals a partnership spanning over six decades, with India’s first diplomatic mission in Nigeria inaugurated in 1958. The strategic partnership designation was formalized during a visit by former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh in 2007. Today, over 200 Indian firms have invested approximately $27 billion in Nigeria, employing many and contributing significantly to the nation’s economy.
The strategic partnership between India and Nigeria has evolved over many years, beginning in 1958 when India established its first diplomatic mission in Nigeria, merely two years prior to Nigeria’s independence from British rule. This partnership was officially elevated to the strategic level in 2007 during former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh’s visit. Since then, India has maintained a strong economic presence in Nigeria, with Indian companies actively participating in various sectors and contributing to job creation in the country, further solidifying bilateral ties that have weathered time and changing geopolitical landscapes.
In conclusion, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Nigeria underscores India’s commitment to enhancing its strategic partnership with the African nation. Through diplomatic dialogue and the acknowledgment of the Indian expatriate community, this engagement aims to deepen economic ties and collaborative efforts, particularly in responding to humanitarian needs. As historical allies, both countries stand poised for renewed cooperation and growth in various sectors.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
