PM Modi: Indian priority to strategic partnership with Nigeria
Strategic Partnership with Nigeria, During Landmark Visit
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has reiterated India’s commitment to strengthening its strategic partnership with Nigeria, recognizing the critical importance of the African nation as a key partner in India’s foreign policy and global ambitions. During a meeting with Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari, Modi emphasized that India values its ties with Nigeria, considering it as one of the most important countries in Africa.
Speaking at a bilateral meeting in New Delhi, PM Modi highlighted the long-standing relationship between the two countries, which spans various sectors including trade, energy, security, and development cooperation. He underscored that Nigeria, with its large population and growing economy, is seen as a vital partner in India’s quest to expand its influence in Africa and the broader global South.
The Prime Minister pointed out that both nations share common democratic values and face similar challenges, including terrorism and extremism. This shared experience, he noted, makes India and Nigeria natural allies in the fight against global security threats. He expressed India’s commitment to supporting Nigeria in its efforts to combat terrorism, particularly in the troubled northeastern regions, where extremist groups such as Boko Haram have wreaked havoc.
India’s development cooperation with Nigeria is also a major focus, with India providing assistance in sectors such as education, healthcare, and infrastructure. PM Modi announced that India would further deepen its cooperation by enhancing capacity-building programs and offering technical expertise to Nigeria.
Trade ties between India and Nigeria have grown steadily, and both leaders agreed on the need to increase economic engagement. India is one of Nigeria’s largest trading partners, with key exports including oil and gas, while India exports pharmaceuticals, machinery, and textiles to Nigeria. Modi highlighted the potential for greater collaboration in areas such as agriculture, renewable energy, and information technology.
The two leaders also discussed the importance of enhancing people-to-people connections, with Modi offering India’s support for scholarships and educational exchanges for Nigerian students.
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