Abuja: Nigeria and India have pledged to deepen collaboration in maritime security, intelligence sharing, and counter-terrorism efforts, marking a significant milestone during Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s state visit to the West African nation.
Modi, the first Indian Prime Minister to visit Nigeria in 17 years, arrived in Abuja on Saturday night at the invitation of President Bola Tinubu. The leaders held discussions on Sunday at the presidential villa, focusing on a wide range of issues, including economic development, defense cooperation, healthcare advancements, and food security, according to a joint statement.
Maritime and Security Collaboration
Amid rising security concerns in the Gulf of Guinea and the Indian Ocean, both nations agreed to strengthen coordination to protect critical maritime trade routes and address piracy. These measures aim to ensure safer and more efficient trade links between Africa and Asia, reflecting the importance of maritime security to their economic partnership.
Economic Investments and Job Creation
President Tinubu highlighted Nigeria’s aim to attract more Indian investment and secure affordable credit lines to bolster its economy and create employment opportunities. India, as Nigeria’s largest trading partner, already has over 200 companies operating in the country.
On the sidelines of last year’s G20 summit, Nigeria announced it had secured nearly $14 billion in investment commitments from Indian companies. Among these, Jindal Steel and Power pledged a $3 billion investment to revitalize Nigeria’s steel sector, underscoring the robust economic ties between the two nations.
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Strategic Importance
Prime Minister Modi’s visit emphasizes India’s growing role in Africa’s economic and security landscapes. It also highlights Nigeria’s strategic position as Africa’s most populous nation and a key player in the region’s economic and security dynamics.
Following his visit to Nigeria, Modi is scheduled to travel to Brazil to participate in this year’s G20 summit, further reflecting India’s focus on strengthening global partnerships.
