During his recent visit to Nigeria, Prime Minister Narendra Modi reinforced India’s strategic alliance with Nigeria, focusing on defense and energy partnerships. His discussions included the importance of the Indian expatriate community and led to new MoUs, including one in customs. Moreover, Modi was awarded the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger, marking a significant honor in bilateral relations.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has emphasized India’s commitment to its strategic partnership with Nigeria, focusing particularly on developments in defense and energy sectors. During his visit to Abuja, marking the first Indian Prime Ministerial visit to Nigeria in 17 years, he acknowledged the contributions of the Indian diaspora, comprising approximately 60,000 individuals, as a pivotal aspect of India-Nigeria relations. This visit also saw the signing of various Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs), particularly in customs, and an announcement of relief aid for flood-affected Nigerians. The highlight of the visit was Nigeria’s award of the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger to PM Modi, signifying the strong bond and mutual appreciation between the two nations.
The India-Nigeria relationship has been characterized by a collaborative partnership that has strengthened since Nigeria’s independence in 1960. The two countries share mutual values of democracy and pluralism, with India being a significant purchaser of Nigerian crude oil. Moreover, India has actively supported Nigeria through development assistance and educational exchanges, including substantial ITEC scholarships. The active role of Nigeria in the African Union and BRICS underscores its regional influence, further solidifying its relationship with India.
In conclusion, Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Nigeria reflects a deepening of bilateral relations, particularly in defense and energy, complemented by significant humanitarian support. The partnership is solidified by historical ties, mutual benefits seen in economic cooperation, and ongoing educational exchanges. The honors conferred upon PM Modi signify a robust acknowledgment of this strategic alliance, poised for further growth and collaboration in the future.
Original Source: m.economictimes.com
