Prime Minister Narendra Modi received Nigeria’s second-highest national honor, the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger, on Sunday, becoming the second foreign dignitary to receive this prestigious award after Queen Elizabeth in 1969. Accepting the accolade with humility, Modi dedicated it to the people of India, marking his 17th international recognition.
In a significant step towards strengthening bilateral ties, Modi announced the dispatch of 20 tonnes of relief supplies for recent flood victims in Nigeria. His visit, the first by an Indian Prime Minister to Nigeria in 17 years, underscores the importance India places on its strategic partnership with the African nation.
Focus on Security and Development
During talks with Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Modi emphasized addressing global challenges such as terrorism, separatism, piracy, and drug trafficking. The two leaders reaffirmed their commitment to combating these threats while enhancing cooperation in defense, energy, technology, trade, health, and education.
President Tinubu acknowledged India’s impactful development initiatives in Nigeria, including $100 million in concessional loans and capacity-building programs, which have significantly boosted local skills and professional expertise.
Milestones in India-Nigeria Relations
The partnership between India and Nigeria spans over six decades, with India emerging as one of Nigeria’s key development partners. Currently, more than 200 Indian companies have invested approximately $27 billion in Nigeria’s manufacturing sector, making them the country’s second-largest employers after the federal government.
MoUs and Key Initiatives
Modi and Tinubu signed three crucial Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) covering a Cultural Exchange Programme, Customs Cooperation, and Survey Cooperation. These agreements aim to deepen cultural ties, streamline trade processes, and foster strategic collaboration.
Modi also highlighted the importance of the 60,000-strong Indian expatriate community in Nigeria, referring to them as a vital pillar of the bilateral relationship. He expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for ensuring their welfare and well-being.
Symbol of Trust and Friendship
Upon his arrival, Modi was welcomed with the ceremonial Key to the City of Abuja, symbolizing trust and honor from the Nigerian people. His visit follows an earlier meeting between India’s National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval and his Nigerian counterpart, Nuhu Ribadu, to discuss counter-terrorism strategies and threats posed by global security challenges.
Strengthening African Ties
Modi’s visit aligns with India’s broader outreach to Africa, following its role in advocating for the African Union’s permanent membership in the G20 during last year’s summit. Recognizing Nigeria’s influence in Africa, Modi reiterated India’s commitment to advancing close cooperation with African nations.
Concluding his visit, Modi described the discussions with President Tinubu as “highly productive,” noting that there is immense potential to elevate the India-Nigeria partnership to new heights across various sectors.
This landmark visit signifies a renewed chapter in India-Nigeria relations, laying the groundwork for a more robust, strategic, and mutually beneficial partnership.