Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s landmark visit to Nigeria, the first by an Indian leader in 17 years, saw several crucial developments.
PM Modi, the leader of the world’s largest democracy, and Nigerian President Bola Tinubu, helming Africa’s most populous nation, met in Abuja on Sunday (November 17).
The two discussed a range of issues, from security and trade to global governance and economic cooperation.
Here are five key takeaways from the meeting:
1. Strengthening security ties
PM Modi and President Tinubu pledged to bolster collaboration on maritime security, counterterrorism, and intelligence sharing, addressing shared concerns about piracy and organised crime in the Gulf of Guinea and the Indian Ocean.
A joint statement highlighted the growing threats in these regions and the need for coordinated action to safeguard trade routes.
“Our cooperation is very strong and there are many new possibilities as well for us to take our cooperation forward,” PM Modi said.
2. Focus on economic cooperation
Economic ties featured prominently, with discussions on finalising agreements on investment promotion, double taxation avoidance, and economic cooperation.
Modi stressed the role of Indian companies in Nigeria’s economy, with over 200 firms investing $27 billion in sectors such as manufacturing and infrastructure.
Tinubu, seeking to attract more investment, underscored the mutual benefits of the growing economic relationship.
3. Recognition of shared global goals
Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to championing the interests of the Global South. Modi, who has positioned India as a voice for developing nations, vowed to highlight these priorities on the global stage.
Tinubu echoed this sentiment, saying that Nigeria values its partnership with India and would work to broaden it.
4. Push for UN security council reform
The visit comes as both India and Nigeria renew their bids for permanent seats on the United Nations Security Council.
Modi and Tinubu stressed the need for reforming global governance structures to align with the growing influence of countries from Africa, Asia, and Latin America.
Nigeria, which faces diplomatic competition from South Africa for an African seat, drew attention to its credentials as a strong contender.
5. Shared honours
In a gesture of recognition, Tinubu conferred the title of Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger, Nigeria’s second-highest national honour, on PM Modi.
The meeting was framed as a strategic partnership between two nations with shared values of democracy and development. Modi’s visit, the first by an Indian prime minister in 17 years.
With inputs from agencies
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5 takeaways after PM Modi’s meeting with Nigerian President Bola Tinubu
