Mon Nov 18 00:28:49 UTC 2024: ## Modi and Tinubu Pledge Strengthened Ties During Nigeria State Visit

**Abuja, Nigeria** – Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi concluded a productive state visit to Nigeria on November 18th, 2024, holding extensive talks with Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The visit, marked by a ceremonial welcome including a 21-gun salute, focused on deepening the strategic partnership between the two nations.

Following a private meeting, both leaders engaged in delegation-level talks. PM Modi recalled his previous meeting with President Tinubu at the G20 Summit and highlighted the strong historical ties, shared democratic values, and robust people-to-people connections between India and Nigeria. He also expressed condolences for the recent devastating floods in Nigeria, while President Tinubu thanked India for its swift provision of relief supplies and medicines.

Discussions centered on expanding cooperation across various sectors, including trade, investment, education, energy, healthcare, culture, and defence. India offered its expertise in agriculture, transportation, affordable medicine, renewable energy, and digital transformation, an offer President Tinubu welcomed, recognizing India’s positive impact on Nigerian capacity building. Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to combating terrorism, piracy, and radicalization.

The two nations also addressed global issues, with President Tinubu acknowledging India’s efforts to amplify the voices of developing nations. They agreed to collaborate on meeting the developmental goals of the Global South. PM Modi praised Nigeria’s role as Chair of ECOWAS and invited President Tinubu to participate in several Indian-led pro-planet initiatives, including the International Solar Alliance and the International Big Cat Alliance.

The visit culminated in the signing of three Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) covering cultural exchange, customs cooperation, and survey cooperation, followed by a state banquet hosted by President Tinubu. Both leaders expressed optimism about the future of the India-Nigeria strategic partnership and its potential for significant growth in the coming years.

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