Mohammed Shosanya
Nigeria and India have reaffirmed their commitment to a robust strategic partnership, pledging to strengthen ties in key areas including economic development, defence, healthcare and food security.
This is conveyed in a joint statement issued on Sunday in Abuja at the conclusion of the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s state visit to Nigeria at the invitation of President Bola Tinubu.
During their bilateral discussion,the two leaders agreed to a greater collaboration in counterterrorism, maritime security, and intelligence sharing.
With growing threats in the Gulf of Guinea and the Indian Ocean, they also agreed to coordinated actions to safeguard maritime trade routes and combat piracy.
The two countries pledged to continue regular naval exercises and joint anti-piracy operations in the Gulf of Guinea to safeguard critical maritime routes.
”The leaders reiterated their unequivocal condemnation of terrorism in all its forms and manifestations including the cross-border movement of terrorists and terror financing networks and safe havens.
”They called for zero tolerance to terrorism and expeditious finalization and adoption of the Comprehensive Convention on International terrorism in the UN Framework as well as implementation of the UNGA and the UNSC resolutions on countering terrorism and violent extremism.
”It was agreed to enhance cooperation in the area of counter terrorism,” the joint statement said.
Prime Minister Modi reiterated India’s readiness to support Nigeria’s defence modernization efforts, highlighting India’s emergence as a trusted defence manufacturer.
The two leaders also highlighted the vibrant economic relationship between India and Nigeria, with India positioned as Nigeria’s largest trading partner and a significant contributor to its economy.
Meanwhile,President Bola Tinubu has conferred the national honour of Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON) on visiting Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi.
Tinubu honoured the Indian Prime Minister on Sunday, November 17, during the Nigeria/India Bilateral meeting held at the Presidential villa, Abuja.
The meeting is part of the activities marking the state visit of the Indian Prime Minister.
Tinubu said that the invitation extended to the Indian PM was to rekindle existing relationship between Nigeria and India.
“Nigeria values its excellent relationship with India, and we work to deepen and broaden the same to the mutual benefit of our two friendly countries.
“You represent a very strong commitment in democratic values and norms, you have been doing a good job historically, winning three consecutive elections in a complex society is a feat that we respect so much.
“I will confer on you today, the Prime Minister of India, Nigeria’s National Honour, the Grand Commander of the Order of Niger.This to signify Nigerian appreciation and commitment to India as a partner”, he said.
