Prime Minister Narendra Modi received a warm and enthusiastic welcome from the Indian diaspora in Nigeria as he arrived in Abuja on Sunday, marking his first visit to the West African nation. This visit, the first by an Indian Prime Minister to Nigeria in 17 years, aims to deepen strategic ties and enhance cooperation between the two countries.
The Indian community, including women and children, gathered in large numbers at Abuja airport, chanting slogans such as “Bharat Mata Ki Jai” and “Vande Mataram.” The vibrant reception included posters and hoardings adorning the city in honour of the Prime Minister’s visit.
Expressing gratitude for the heartfelt welcome, PM Modi posted on X (formerly Twitter): “Heartwarming to see the Indian community in Nigeria extending such a warm and vibrant welcome!” He praised the diaspora for staying connected to their roots, language, and culture, sharing pictures of his interactions with community members.
In another post, PM Modi acknowledged the Marathi community in Nigeria, noting their pride in Marathi being granted Classical Language status. “It is truly commendable how they remain connected to their culture and roots,” he wrote.
Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu personally welcomed PM Modi at Abuja airport, underlining the significance of the visit. The Nigerian Minister for the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, presented PM Modi with the Key to the City of Abuja, symbolising trust and honour from the Nigerian people.
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PM Modi highlighted the importance of the visit in fostering India-Nigeria relations, stating on X: “Grateful for the warm welcome. May this visit deepen the bilateral friendship between our nations.”
President Tinubu also expressed his enthusiasm, saying: “Our bilateral discussions will seek to expand the strategic partnership between both countries and enhance cooperation in critical sectors.”
Nigeria is the first stop in PM Modi’s five-day visit, which includes Brazil for the G20 summit and Guyana. This visit is set to build upon the strategic partnership between India and Nigeria, rooted in shared values of democracy and pluralism.
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