India’s 14th Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, concluded his visit to Nigeria on Sunday, November 17, as the first stop on his three-nation diplomatic tour, which also includes Brazil and Guyana.

It was a historic visit that marked the first time in 17 years that an Indian Prime Minister visited Nigeria, following Dr. Manmohan Singh’s state visit in 2007, during which both nations established a strategic partnership.

Being the executive head and highest authority in India’s government, Modi was ceremonially received in Abuja on Sunday morning before holding a closed-door meeting with Nigerian President Bola Tinubu. The visit renewed the longstanding friendship between the two nations, with several significant outcomes you should be aware of.

Modi Received Unusual Recognition in Abuja

President Tinubu conferred Nigeria’s second-highest national honour, the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON), on PM Modi, making him the second foreign dignitary to receive this recognition after Queen Elizabeth II in 1969.

Tinubu said the honour was “to signify our appreciation of India as Nigeria’s partner.”

Trade and Economic Ties 

Over 200 Indian companies have invested approximately $27 billion in Nigeria’s manufacturing sector, positioning Indian expatriates as the second-largest employers in the country after the Federal Government.  

This partnership was highlighted by PM Modi, who remarked, “As two vibrant democracies with dynamic economies, we are committed to working together for the prosperity of our people.”

India’s Quest for Expansion into Africa

China currently stands as Africa’s largest trading partner, with annual trade totalling over $200 billion. Over 10,000 Chinese firms operate across the continent, contributing to a business value exceeding $2 trillion since 2015 and current investments worth $300 billion.

To emulate their neighbours and possibly surpass them, India will deepen its economic and cultural investments in Africa. Its strategic partnership with Nigeria, which has the continent’s fourth-largest economy, will play a pivotal role in this effort.

Cultural Exchange and Humanitarian Aid

During the visit, both nations signed Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) on cultural exchange programs, customs cooperation, and survey cooperation. This agreement aims to bolster the six-decade-long ties between India and Nigeria.

India also extended humanitarian support to Nigeria following last month’s devastating floods. Modi announced the provision of 20 tons of humanitarian aid, stating, “On behalf of 140 crore Indians, I express condolences over the loss of lives due to floods in Nigeria,’’ he said. 

With over 60,000 Indian nationals residing in Nigeria and a robust trade and cultural collaboration foundation, the visit reaffirms India’s commitment to strengthening its ties with Africa’s most populated country.