ABUJA, Nigeria (ChatnewsTV) — Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Nigeria on Saturday night, landing at Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, where he was received by Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Bianca Ojukwu and Minister of the Federal Capital Territory Nyesom Wike, who presented the symbolic key to Nigeria’s Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to Modi.
Modi later took to social media to express his gratitude for the warm reception he received. “Heartwarming to see the Indian community in Nigeria extending such a warm and vibrant welcome!” he tweeted.
In a separate message, Modi praised the Marathi community in Nigeria, who celebrated Marathi’s recognition as a Classical Language. “It is truly commendable how they remain connected to their culture and roots,” he wrote.
The Indian Prime Minister’s visit marks the first by a sitting Indian leader to Nigeria in 17 years, underscoring the importance of strengthening bilateral ties between the two nations.
India is Nigeria’s largest trading partner in Africa and the biggest buyer of Nigerian petroleum products, with a trade volume of $10 billion. Approximately 200 Indian companies have invested $27 billion in Nigeria, and about 50,000 Indians currently reside in the country.
Ahead of Modi’s arrival, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu met with Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Ojukwu and other diplomatic officials to prepare for the historic visit.
“This is a momentous occasion, as we seek to strengthen our partnership with India across various sectors,” Minister of state for Foreign affairs, Bianca Ojukwu said.
“We look forward to fruitful discussions that will benefit both nations.”
“This is a significant step towards deepening the relationship between Nigeria and India,” she said.
PM Modi will meet with President Tinubu later today at the Aso rock villa, where the two leaders discussions is expected to focus on enhancing cooperation in trade, technology, and development.
By Gabriel Ani
