Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi created a stir in Abuja on Sunday when he addressed Nigerian President Bola Tinubu with the Yoruba phrase, “Ore mi,” meaning “My friend.”
This gesture, combined with his receiving Nigeria’s prestigious national honour, the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON), marked a momentous occasion during the Nigeria-India bilateral meeting at the Presidential Villa.
Tinubu lauded Modi’s leadership and reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening ties with India.
“A Symbol of Friendship and Respect”
President Tinubu emphasized the importance of India-Nigeria relations, calling Modi’s visit a renewal of their longstanding partnership.
“You represent a very strong commitment to democratic values and norms,” Tinubu said. “Winning three consecutive elections in a complex society is a feat we deeply respect.”
In conferring the GCON honour, Tinubu said it symbolized Nigeria’s appreciation for India’s partnership and shared global vision.
Modi’s Support for Nigeria Amid Crises
Prime Minister Modi demonstrated solidarity with Nigeria by pledging 20 tons of relief materials for flood victims across the country.
“We stand by Nigeria in this challenging time,” he said, referencing the devastation caused by floods in cities such as Maiduguri.
The relief materials, he noted, would aid ongoing humanitarian efforts under Tinubu’s administration.
Global Leaders of the Global South
The meeting also highlighted both nations’ shared ambition to amplify the voices of the Global South on the world stage.
“Nigeria and India are natural partners,” Modi remarked. “Together, we will continue to highlight the priorities of the Global South and work towards a multipolar world.”
The two countries have been vocal advocates for reforms in global institutions, particularly the United Nations Security Council, where both aspire to permanent seats.
A “Strategic Partnership” Renewed
Modi’s visit comes as India seeks deeper economic ties with Africa, where China, Russia, and the United States have been actively competing for influence.
The leaders directed their officials to finalize key agreements, including a double taxation avoidance deal, a bilateral investment treaty, and an economic cooperation framework.
India has been a significant investor in Nigeria, with over 200 Indian companies injecting $27 billion into Nigerian manufacturing and creating thousands of jobs.
Nigeria also benefits from Indian development aid, which includes $100 million in loans and training programs.
Strengthening Economic and Security Ties
Tinubu and Modi reaffirmed their countries’ commitment to combating terrorism, piracy, separatism, and drug trafficking.
“Our cooperation is very strong,” Modi said. “We see many new possibilities to take it forward.”
The leaders also pledged to expand trade and investment between Asia’s largest democracy and Africa’s most populous nation.
Cultural and Diplomatic Highlights
Modi’s arrival in Abuja was met with fanfare as members of Nigeria’s 60,000-strong Indian community cheered at the airport.
In addition to his formal engagements, Modi also met with representatives of the Indian diaspora in Nigeria, underscoring the deep cultural ties between the two nations.
