Sun Nov 17 11:57:41 UTC 2024: **Modi and Tinubu Strengthen India-Nigeria Ties During Historic Visit**
Abuja, Nigeria – Prime Minister Narendra Modi concluded a historic visit to Nigeria on Sunday, holding extensive talks with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu focused on bolstering bilateral relations. This marks the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Nigeria in 17 years.
The two leaders engaged in one-on-one meetings and subsequent delegation-level talks, expected to result in several signed agreements. Discussions centered on strengthening cooperation in trade, investment, and digital public infrastructure. PM Modi received a ceremonial welcome at the presidential villa upon his arrival.
The visit underscores the deep and longstanding relationship between India and Nigeria, elevated to a “strategic partnership” in 2007. With a large Indian expatriate community of approximately 60,000—the largest in West Africa—and over 200 Indian companies investing roughly $27 billion in Nigerian manufacturing sectors, the economic ties are substantial. These companies are reportedly the second-largest employers in the country after the federal government.
India’s commitment to Nigeria’s development is further evident through concessional loans totaling $100 million and capacity-building training programs. PM Modi’s visit to Nigeria is part of a three-nation tour that will also include stops in Brazil for the G20 summit and Guyana.
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