Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Visit to Nigeria
Strengthening Strategic Partnership with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu
On November 17, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had a significant meeting with Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in Abuja, Nigeria. The discussion aimed to enhance the strategic partnership between India and Nigeria, focusing on sectors such as defence, technology, health, and more.
Prime Minister Modi expressed the potential for further strengthening ties, stating, “Had a very productive discussion with President Tinubu. We talked about adding momentum to our strategic partnership. There is immense scope for ties to flourish even further in sectors like defence, energy, technology, trade, health, education and more.”
Exchange of Memorandums of Understanding
During the visit, India and Nigeria exchanged Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) to solidify their collaboration. The meeting took place at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, with key Indian officials, including External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, in attendance.
Historical Context and Economic Ties
India and Nigeria have been strategic partners since 2007, with significant economic, energy, and defence collaborations. Over 200 Indian companies have invested more than USD 27 billion in Nigeria, highlighting the strong economic ties between the two nations.
This visit marks the first by an Indian Prime Minister to Nigeria in 17 years, as part of PM Modi’s three-nation tour, which includes Brazil and Guyana, from November 17 to November 21.
Doubts Revealed
Narendra Modi -: Narendra Modi is the Prime Minister of India. He is the leader of the Indian government and represents India in international matters.
Nigeria -: Nigeria is a country in West Africa. It is known for its diverse culture and is one of the largest countries in Africa by population.
Bola Ahmed Tinubu -: Bola Ahmed Tinubu is the President of Nigeria. He is the head of the Nigerian government and works with other countries to improve Nigeria’s relations and development.
Strategic partnership -: A strategic partnership is a relationship between two countries where they work closely together on important issues like trade, security, and technology to benefit both nations.
Memorandums of Understanding -: Memorandums of Understanding, or MoUs, are agreements between two parties, like countries, to work together on specific projects or areas without being legally binding.
Investments -: Investments refer to putting money into projects or businesses in another country to help them grow and also earn profits. India has invested in Nigeria to help both countries prosper.
Tour to Nigeria, Brazil, and Guyana -: A tour in this context means a series of visits by Prime Minister Modi to different countries, including Nigeria, Brazil, and Guyana, to strengthen India’s relationships with these nations.