66-Year India-Nigeria Ties Strengthen As Modi Makes First Visit To The West African Economy

The long-standing relationship between the two countries dates back to India establishing its Diplomatic House in Lagos in November 1958, two years before the country gained independence.

Narendra Modi recently visited Nigeria, marking the first trip by an Indian Prime Minister in 17 years since Manmohan Singh’s visit in October 2007.

Modi’s visit follows his meeting with Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu on the sidelines of the G20 Summit held in New Delhi, India, in September 2023.

An Indian expatriate community of approximately 50,000 people – the largest in West Africa – serves as a living bridge between the two countries.

Highlighting this bond, Modi expressed gratitude during his meeting with Tinubu in Nigeria’s capital Abuja, stating: “I am happy that under India’s leadership, Nigeria joined the G20 as a partner country and was given BRICS partner status. Our partnership is strong and full of new possibilities.”

India is one of Nigeria’s largest trading partners, while Nigeria remains India’s largest trading partner in Africa. However, bilateral trade declined from $14.95 billion in 2021-22 to $7.89 billion in 2023-24, mainly due to reduced oil imports by India.

Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) inflows from Nigeria to India from April 2000 to June 2019 were valued at around $14.50 million.

Indian-owned and operated companies are critical players in Nigeria’s economy, with over 135 companies employing thousands of Nigerians in industries such as pharmaceuticals, engineering, and chemicals. These businesses represent the second-largest pool of private-sector employers in the country after the federal government.

Tinubu acknowledged this contribution, saying: “Indian citizens in Nigeria and investors are doing great service to your reputation and to democratic values in our region. We value our relationship and seek to deepen it for mutual benefit.”

Modi’s visit also highlighted India’s solidarity with Nigeria. He expressed condolences for the lives lost in last month’s floods and announced 20 tonnes of humanitarian aid for relief efforts.

Tinubu conferred upon him Nigeria’s national honor, the Grand Commander of the Order of Niger (GCON). “Your transformative leadership has placed India on the top ladder of governance, and we respect your example of democratic values. This honor signifies Nigeria’s appreciation and commitment to India as a partner,” Tinubu said at the meeting.