Nigeria, India Strengthen Maritime and Security Ties During Historic Visit by PM Modi

ABUJA, Nov 17 – In a landmark visit, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Nigerian President Bola Tinubu agreed to enhance collaboration on maritime security, intelligence sharing, and counter-terrorism.

The agreement came during Modi’s state visit to Nigeria, marking the first by an Indian prime minister in 17 years.

The two leaders met at the presidential villa in Abuja on Sunday, where discussions extended to economic development, healthcare, defense, and food security, according to a joint statement.

Modi’s visit reflects Nigeria’s push to attract investments from global economic powerhouses as the country seeks to revive its economy and create jobs.

With heightened security concerns in the Gulf of Guinea and the Indian Ocean, both nations pledged coordinated actions to safeguard maritime trade routes and combat piracy.

This partnership underscores the growing importance of secure maritime corridors for trade and energy supplies.

India’s Growing Investment in Nigeria
India, one of Nigeria’s top trading partners, has over 200 companies operating in the country.

Nigeria is courting additional investments and affordable credit from Indian firms, building on $14 billion in pledges secured during last year’s G20 summit. Among the commitments, Jindal Steel and Power plans to invest $3 billion in Nigeria’s steel sector.

This visit follows Tinubu’s ongoing efforts to solidify economic partnerships with major economies, positioning Nigeria as an attractive destination for foreign investment in Africa.

Global Engagement Continues
Following his engagements in Nigeria, Modi will travel to Brazil to participate in the 2024 G20 summit, underscoring India’s growing influence on the global stage.

This historic visit highlights the strengthening ties between the world’s largest democracy and Africa’s most populous nation, paving the way for deeper economic and security cooperation.