PM Modi Embarks On Three-Nation Visit, Arrives In Nigeria Amid Rousing Welcome

Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Nigeria on Sunday, marking the first visit by an Indian prime minister to the country in 17 years. Invited by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Modi was warmly received in Abuja.

Minister for Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, presented him with the Key to the City of Abuja, symbolising trust and honour from the Nigerian people.

Photo Credit: PTI

Modi's visit aims to strengthen the strategic partnership between India and Nigeria. President Tinubu expressed his eagerness to enhance cooperation in critical sectors. "Welcome to Nigeria, Prime Minister Modi," Tinubu stated in a post on X. Modi responded with gratitude for the warm reception and shared images of his arrival and interactions at the airport.

Strengthening Bilateral Ties

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) shared images of Modi's welcome on social media. In a post on X, Modi expressed his appreciation: "Thank you, President Tinubu. Landed a short while ago in Nigeria. Grateful for the warm welcome. May this visit deepen the bilateral friendship between our nations." He also highlighted the vibrant reception from the Indian community in Nigeria.

Modi's journey includes a five-day tour covering Nigeria, Brazil, and Guyana. After Nigeria, he will head to Brazil for the 19th G20 Summit as part of the Troika with Brazil and South Africa. The summit will see leaders like Chinese President Xi Jinping and US President Joe Biden gathering in Rio de Janeiro on November 18-19.

Celebrating Cultural Connections

During his visit, Modi noted the Marathi community's joy over Marathi being granted classical language status by India's Union Cabinet last month. "It is truly commendable how they remain connected to their culture and roots," he remarked in a post on X.

The final leg of Modi's trip will take him to Guyana from November 19 to 21 at President Mohamed Irfaan Ali's invitation. This marks the first visit by an Indian prime minister to Guyana in over 50 years, highlighting India's commitment to strengthening ties with West African and South American nations.

In his departure statement, Modi expressed anticipation for meeting the Indian community in Nigeria who had sent him warm messages in Hindi. He emphasised that this trip is an opportunity to build upon a strategic partnership rooted in shared beliefs in democracy and pluralism.