NEW DELHI: Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Abuja, Nigeria, on Sunday, marking the first visit by an Indian prime minister to the West African nation in 17 years. The visit is part of a three-nation tour aimed at strengthening India’s global partnerships.
Upon his arrival, PM Modi received a ceremonial welcome from Nigeria’s minister for federal capital territory, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, who presented him with the symbolic “Key to the City” of Abuja.
The ministry of external affairs (MEA) highlighted the gesture, saying it reflects “the trust and honour bestowed on the prime minister by the people of Nigeria.” The MEA also shared images of the warm reception, highlighting the significance of PM Modi’s first-ever visit to the West African region.
During his five-day visit, PM Modi will engage in high-level discussions aimed at advancing the strategic partnership established between India and Nigeria in 2007. The talks are expected to focus on deepening collaboration in sectors such as the economy, energy, and defense. PM Modi will also meet members of the Indian community in Nigeria, who have played a pivotal role in fostering ties between the two countries.
In his departure statement, Modi said, “I am also eagerly looking forward to meeting the Indian community and friends from Nigeria who have sent me warm welcome messages in Hindi.” PM Modi also said it would be an opportunity to “build upon our strategic partnership that is based on shared belief in democracy and pluralism”.
Following his Nigeria visit, PM Modi will travel to Brazil to participate in the 19th G20 Summit as part of the Troika, which includes India, Brazil, and South Africa. The summit, scheduled for November 18-19 in Rio de Janeiro, will be attended by global leaders, including Chinese President Xi Jinping and US President Joe Biden.
In the final leg of his tour, PM will visit Guyana from November 19 to 21 at the invitation of President Mohamed Irfaan Ali. This historic visit marks the first by an Indian prime minister to Guyana in over 50 years, highlighting India’s commitment to strengthening ties with the Caribbean nation.