Hamid Ansari inaugurates High Commission Chancery complex at Abuja

Abuja, Sep 27 Vice President Hamid Ansari has lauded the 35,000-strong Indian community in Nigeria for its commendable service to the country as he inaugurated the Indian High Commission's Chancery complex here.

Ansari, who arrived here last night on the first leg of his two-nation visit, interacted with the Indian community members and posed for photographs with them.

The Vice President lauded the efforts in the 35,000- strong Indian community in Nigeria at a function last night for their commendable service to the African country, be it in the field of teaching, IT or business.

He also said this Nigerian capital is a true model of a Smart City, a concept which India is trying to develop.

The foundation stone of the High Commission building, located at Cadastral Zone in the Federal Capital Territory, was laid by the then prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee during his visit here in 2003.

On the occasion, a photography exhibition titled "India-Nigeria Relations: Evolution to Strategic Partnership" was inaugurated and an e-book on bilateral ties launched.

Ansari and his wife also planted a sapling in the premises of the high commission building.

PTI