Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Nigerian President Bola Tinubu agreed Sunday to strengthen cooperation in maritime security, intelligence sharing, and counter-terrorism during Modi’s landmark visit to Africa’s most populous nation, marking the first such trip by an Indian premier in 17 years.
The leaders met at the presidential villa in Abuja, where they outlined plans to combat growing threats in the Gulf of Guinea and Indian Ocean through coordinated action against piracy and protection of maritime trade routes. Their discussions also encompassed economic development, defense collaboration, healthcare initiatives, and food security measures, according to a joint statement.
The visit underscores Nigeria’s push to attract investment from major global economies, following nearly $14 billion in pledges from Indian investors secured during last year’s G20 summit. That included a $3 billion commitment from Jindal Steel and Power for Nigeria’s steel sector, highlighting the growing economic ties between the nations.
More than 200 Indian companies currently operate in Nigeria, reflecting the substantial commercial relationship between the two countries. Tinubu’s administration has actively sought to expand these partnerships while securing more favorable credit terms to stimulate economic growth and job creation.
Modi’s visit to Nigeria, part of a diplomatic tour that will next take him to Brazil for the G20 summit, represents a significant step in strengthening Indo-African relations and expanding India’s strategic presence in West Africa.
