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PM Modi’s Historic Visit to Nigeria Boosts India-Africa Strategic Partnership

4 minutes read

PM Modi’s Historic Visit to Nigeria Boosts India-Africa Strategic Partnership

4 minutes read

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to Nigeria marks a significant milestone in the strengthening of ties between two of the world’s largest democracies. As part of his three-nation tour, which also includes stops in Brazil and Guyana, Modi’s visit to Abuja is the first by an Indian Prime Minister to Nigeria in 17 years, symbolizing a renewed focus on enhancing bilateral relations.

Upon arrival in Nigeria, Modi was warmly received by Nigerian officials and a cheering crowd from the Indian community, which numbers around 60,000 in the country. The visit, labeled as a meeting between “natural partners,” seeks to deepen the strategic partnership between India and Nigeria, focusing on collaboration in various sectors like defense, technology, health, and education. Modi’s discussions with Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu were centered on strengthening this partnership to meet the development aspirations of the Global South, as both countries push for greater roles in global affairs.

A key highlight of the visit was the emphasis on expanding economic cooperation. India has made significant investments in Nigeria, with over 200 Indian companies contributing approximately $27 billion to the Nigerian economy, particularly in the manufacturing sector. These investments have positioned India as a major employer in the region, indicating the deep economic ties between the two nations. Additionally, Nigeria has been a beneficiary of Indian development funds, receiving $100 million in loans and training programs for local workers. This financial support is part of India’s broader strategy to enhance its influence in Africa, amidst competition from other global powers like the United States, China, and Russia.

The diplomatic discussions between Modi and Tinubu also addressed global and regional issues, with both leaders agreeing on the need to work together to amplify the voices of developing countries. This aligns with India’s ongoing efforts to represent the interests of the Global South, especially through platforms like the Voice of the Global South Summits. The leaders’ discussions extended to potential collaborations in areas such as trade, investment, energy, and people-to-people exchanges, further strengthening the strategic partnership between the two countries.

An important diplomatic move during the visit was Nigeria’s support for India’s long-standing bid for a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council. Both India and Nigeria have been vocal advocates for reforming the Security Council to include more permanent members from Asia, Africa, and Latin America, reflecting the growing push for a multipolar world order. Nigeria, with its large population and economic influence in Africa, alongside India’s position as the world’s most populous nation, seeks to play a more significant role in global decision-making forums.

During his visit, PM Modi announced India’s commitment to sending 20 tons of humanitarian aid to Nigeria to support flood relief efforts. This gesture underscores India’s solidarity with Nigeria and its broader humanitarian outreach in Africa. Moreover, Modi was honored with Nigeria’s highest national award, the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger, a testament to the deepening relationship between the two nations. Modi expressed his gratitude for this recognition, dedicating it to the people of India and emphasizing the shared values of democracy and diversity between India and Nigeria.

The visit was not limited to diplomatic engagements alone. Modi also addressed the Indian diaspora in Abuja, highlighting the strong cultural and historical ties between India and Nigeria. He underscored the shared demographic energy and democratic principles that bind the two countries, emphasizing that both nations are moving forward as partners in progress. Modi’s engagement with the diaspora reflects India’s strategy to leverage its overseas communities to strengthen bilateral ties.

Following his successful visit to Nigeria, PM Modi proceeded to Brazil for the 19th G20 Leaders’ Summit, scheduled to take place on November 18-19. As a Troika member, India is expected to play a pivotal role in shaping the agenda, building on the momentum from its own G20 presidency. Modi’s focus will be on continuing the legacy of prioritizing Global South concerns, a theme central to India’s presidency. Brazil, which follows India as the current G20 chair, is expected to maintain the emphasis on these priorities, ensuring continuity in addressing key issues like climate change, sustainable development, and economic cooperation.

Modi’s visit, which will culminate in Guyana, reflects India’s broader foreign policy strategy of engaging with key partners in Africa and Latin America to advance mutual interests and strengthen alliances. This visit is seen as a concerted effort by India to not only boost its diplomatic presence but also to cement its role as a leader of the Global South, advocating for a more inclusive and representative global order.

 

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