Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will arrive in Nigeria on Saturday, marking the first visit of an Indian prime minister to the country in 17 years. Invited by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, this visit represents a significant moment for both nations.
Prime Minister Modi’s agenda includes talks focused on boosting the strategic partnership between India and Nigeria and exploring ways to strengthen cooperation across key areas. He will also meet with the Indian community in Nigeria.
Indian High Commissioner to Nigeria, Shri G. Balasubramanian, emphasized the long-standing bond between the two countries, highlighting collaborations in sectors like energy, defense, and the economy. With over 200 Indian companies investing more than $27 billion in Nigeria, the economic relationship between the two countries has deepened considerably.
Nigeria holds a unique place in India’s engagement with West Africa, as Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Nigeria will also be his first visit to West Africa.
Periasamy Kumaran, the Special Secretary of Economic Relations at India’s Ministry of External Relations, noted that India’s development partnerships prioritize people-centered approaches and aim to address specific local needs. India’s trade with Africa currently stands at $100 billion, with cumulative investments exceeding $75 billion, showcasing India’s commitment to strong ties with African nations.
