Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrived in Nigeria on Saturday, marking the start of a diplomatic tour aimed at strengthening ties with key nations and advocating for greater representation in global institutions. Nigeria, Africa’s most populous country, is the first stop in Modi’s tour, which will also include the G20 summit in Brazil and a visit to Guyana.
Billed as a meeting of natural partners—the world’s largest democracy and Africa’s largest — the visit reflects mutual aspirations for enhanced cooperation.
“May this visit deepen the bilateral friendship between our nations,” Modi shared on X formerly known as Twitter, upon landing in Abuja, where he was greeted by Nigerian officials and a cheering crowd from the local Indian community.
Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu also expressed optimism, stating the visit would expand the strategic partnership between the two nations. Talks between the leaders are scheduled for Sunday at Tinubu’s official residence.
Modi’s visit comes amidst a renewed push by both India and Nigeria for permanent seats on the United Nations Security Council. The current structure grants veto power to five permanent members: the United States, Russia, China, France, and the United Kingdom.
India, with a population of 1.4 billion and a nuclear arsenal, has long campaigned for a permanent seat, arguing that its demographic and geopolitical influence warrants inclusion. Nigeria, with its 220-million-strong population, seeks to represent Africa, although it faces competition from South Africa, another leading contender for the spot.
Both nations advocate for a more multipolar world order, with expanded representation for African, Asian, and Latin American countries in global decision-making bodies.
Beyond political ambitions, Modi’s visit aims to bolster economic collaboration. India, which has invested $27 billion in Nigerian manufacturing through over 200 companies, has become a significant employer in the country. New Delhi also reportedly provides development support to Nigeria, including $100 million in loans and worker training programmes.
As Africa becomes a competitive arena for influence among global powers like the United States, China, and Russia, India is carving out its space. Modi’s visit underlines India’s commitment to deepening its economic and political partnership with Nigeria, a BRICs partner country, even as Abuja remains excluded from full membership.
