During the recent visit of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Nigeria, Mazi Okechukwu Isiguzoro, a chieftain of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, urged President Bola Tinubu to engage in meaningful dialogue to address the plight of over 1.3 million Nigerians reportedly imprisoned across India’s 28 states. Mazi Isiguzoro emphasized the urgency of diplomatic intervention to secure the release of those unjustly detained due to stringent immigration policies that often fail to differentiate between genuine students, medical tourists, and businesspersons. In his statement, Isiguzoro pointed out that India houses the highest number of Nigerian prisoners globally, underscoring the need for swift diplomatic action by the Nigerian government.
President Tinubu’s discussions with Prime Minister Narendra Modi went beyond this pressing humanitarian issue. Both leaders explored opportunities for deepening bilateral relations in various sectors, including technology, infrastructure, energy, and railways. Isiguzoro highlighted the transformative potential of such collaborations, stressing their importance for revitalizing Nigeria’s economy through innovation and job creation. He further encouraged President Tinubu to discuss Nigeria’s inclusion in the BRICS economic bloc, which could bolster the country’s financial stability and promote trade using the Naira.
The visit also witnessed the reaffirmation of strategic partnerships between Nigeria and India. The two leaders discussed greater cooperation in counterterrorism, maritime security, and intelligence sharing, noting the growing threats in the Gulf of Guinea and the Indian Ocean. Both nations committed to regular naval exercises and joint anti-piracy operations to safeguard critical maritime trade routes. Additionally, they condemned terrorism in all forms and pledged support for international frameworks aimed at countering violent extremism.
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Economically, India remains Nigeria’s largest trading partner, with over 200 Indian companies operating in Nigeria and contributing significantly to employment and investment opportunities. Tinubu and Narendra Modi directed their officials to expedite pending trade agreements, including the Economic Cooperation Agreement (ECA) and the Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT), to enhance trade and investment ties. They also commended the $14 billion investment commitments made by Indian companies during Tinubu’s earlier visit to India, aimed at industrialization, energy, telecommunications, and defense sectors.
In the healthcare domain, both nations pledged to enhance collaboration through the establishment of hospitals, diagnostic centers, and innovative health management systems. India offered its CoWIN digital platform to bolster Nigeria’s healthcare system, alongside commitments to supply affordable generic pharmaceuticals. Similarly, they agreed on long-term contracts for crude oil and LNG supply, alongside technical support in energy infrastructure.
Agricultural collaboration was another focal point, with agreements on the exchange of high-yield seeds, machinery, and technical expertise to bolster food security. Modi’s government recognized Nigeria’s role in supporting the UN resolution to designate 2023 as the International Year of Millets, further enhancing their cooperative efforts.
President Tinubu’s conferment of the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON) on Narendra Modi symbolized Nigeria’s appreciation for India’s enduring partnership. Both leaders acknowledged the significant contributions of the Indian community in Nigeria, enhancing the ties between the two nations. Modi’s commitment to advancing the interests of Nigeria and Africa through cooperation and strategic alliances was evident in his remarks, reflecting a mutual desire to deepen and expand the longstanding partnership.
In summary, the high-level engagements between Nigeria and India, including the exchange of signed Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) on cultural, customs, and technical cooperation, demonstrate the depth of their strategic relationship. As Nigeria and India forge ahead with collaborative initiatives, their focus on mutual development, economic growth, and enhanced global partnerships stands as a testament to their shared vision for a better future for their citizens and the broader international community.
