This visit underscores the mutual commitment of India and Nigeria to foster a robust partnership that addresses shared challenges and advances global development.
Abuja
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his two-day State Visit to Nigeria from November 17-18, 2024, held official discussions with Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in Abuja today. Upon his arrival at the State House, Prime Minister Modi received a ceremonial welcome, including a 21-gun salute.
The leaders began with a restricted meeting, followed by delegation-level talks. Recalling their interaction at the G20 Summit in New Delhi, Prime Minister Modi highlighted the enduring friendship between India and Nigeria, built on a shared history, democratic values, and deep people-to-people connections. Extending his sympathies for the recent devastating floods in Nigeria, he commended the resilience of its people. President Tinubu expressed gratitude for India’s swift assistance with relief materials and medicines.
To further solidify ties, both nations signed three Memoranda of Understanding focusing on Cultural Exchange, Customs Cooperation, and Survey Cooperation. The day concluded with a state banquet hosted by President Tinubu in honor of Prime Minister Modi.
The talks reviewed ongoing bilateral cooperation, identifying significant opportunities to enhance the India-Nigeria Strategic Partnership. Both leaders emphasized potential areas of collaboration, including trade, investment, education, energy, healthcare, and culture. Prime Minister Modi offered India’s expertise in agriculture, transportation, affordable medicine, renewable energy, and digital transformation to support Nigeria’s development goals. President Tinubu appreciated India’s contributions to local capacity-building and skill development.
Defence and security cooperation also featured prominently in discussions, with both nations reaffirming their commitment to combat terrorism, piracy, and radicalization. On global and regional issues, President Tinubu acknowledged India’s initiatives to amplify the concerns of developing countries through platforms like the Voice of the Global South Summits. The two leaders pledged to collaborate in addressing the development aspirations of the Global South.
Prime Minister Modi lauded Nigeria’s leadership as Chair of ECOWAS and its active role in multilateral forums. He also encouraged Nigeria’s participation in India’s pro-planet initiatives, citing its membership in the International Solar Alliance and the International Big Cat Alliance.
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