Mon Nov 18 04:16:25 UTC 2024: ## Modi Highlights India’s Rise During Historic First Visit to Nigeria

**Abuja, Nigeria** – Prime Minister Narendra Modi concluded his historic first visit to Nigeria, addressing the Indian diaspora and emphasizing India’s remarkable economic and technological advancements. His speech, beginning with the local greeting “Sannu, Nigeria,” underscored India’s transformation into a global power.

Modi touted India’s burgeoning startup ecosystem, boasting over 150,000 registered startups and over 100 unicorns, reflecting a doubling of the Indian economy in the last decade to become the world’s fifth-largest. He projected India’s ascent to a USD 5 trillion economy and the third-largest globally.

Significant advancements in the space sector were also highlighted, with Modi announcing upcoming manned space missions under the Gaganyaan program and plans for an Indian space station. He further pointed to a 30-fold increase in India’s defense exports, showcasing growing self-reliance and international influence.

The Prime Minister praised the contributions of the Indian diaspora in Nigeria, citing examples like Tolaram’s Noodles and the Tulsi Chanrai Foundation, emphasizing their positive impact on the Nigerian economy and society. He also noted the popularity of Indian films and the Hindi language in the country.

Modi underscored the shared historical ties between India and Nigeria, highlighting their parallel struggles for independence and their current partnership. He characterized India as a “Vishwa Bandhu” (global friend), citing India’s role in providing COVID-19 vaccines globally and securing the African Union’s permanent membership in the G20 during India’s presidency.

Modi’s visit, the first by an Indian Prime Minister to Nigeria in 17 years, is part of a three-nation tour reflecting India’s strengthened commitment to African partnerships and a shared vision of democratic progress and mutual prosperity. He received Nigeria’s second-highest national award, the ‘Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger,’ further solidifying the strong bilateral ties.

Read More