Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent visit to Nigeria marks a significant moment not just for India but for the broader dynamics of international relations. On November 17th, Modi was awarded the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger, Nigeria's second-highest national honor, during a ceremonial event attended by Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. This recognition is perceived as more than just ceremonial; it symbolizes the strengthening ties between India and Nigeria, particularly against the backdrop of the aspirations of the Global South.
The External Affairs Minister of India, S. Jaishankar, hailed this award as indicative of Modi's commitment to fostering such partnerships. He expressed this sentiment on X, stating, "A recognition of PM Modi’s leadership and commitment to [the] Global South. Also underlines the special ties of friendship between India and Nigeria." The citation for the award noted Modi's statesmanship and contributions toward nurturing India-Nigeria relations, which have been culturally and economically beneficial to both nations.
Modi, acknowledging the honor, dedicated it to the people of India and announced it as recognition of their friendship with Nigeria. His acceptance speech emphasized the shared commitment between the two nations to mutual growth and their collaborative interests. It is noteworthy to mention, he is the first foreign leader to have received this award since its inception, which adds to its significance.
This trip by Modi is historic as it is the first by any Indian Prime Minister to Nigeria in 17 years. The visit, which includes his engagements with Brazil and Guyana, aims to solidify India's position as a key ally for various countries across Africa. Nigeria, as one of India's principal partners within the African region, presents opportunities not only for economic cooperation but also for addressing mutual challenges, such as terrorism and other security issues.
Looking back at the evolution of the India-Nigeria relationship reveals the layers of collaboration over the past six decades. The formal diplomatic ties owe their inception to India establishing its Diplomatic House in Lagos back in 1958, two years before Nigeria gained independence. Over the decades, India has significantly engaged with Nigeria through educational and developmental initiatives, including the establishment of key military training institutions.
From the 1960s through the 1980s, Indian experts, including teachers and healthcare workers, played pivotal roles during Nigeria's formative years. More recently, more than 200 Indian companies have invested around $27 billion across various sectors within Nigeria, making them the second-largest employers there, right after the Nigerian government itself. India’s support extends beyond business. The country has offered significant developmental assistance, contributing to projects aimed at infrastructure and human resource development.
Today, Nigeria's rising economic stature as Africa's largest economy, along with its vibrant manufacturing sector, places it at the forefront of the continent's development narrative. It stands as the heavyweight champion of the region; hence, India’s partnership with Nigeria is of strategic importance. The bilateral relationship has positioned India favorably against China, whose economic presence has grown significantly across Africa, which raised concerns for Indian policymakers.
China’s trade with African nations has soared, dwarfing the partnerships many other countries, including India, have cultivated. Presently, China has become Africa's largest trading partner, with engagements topping $200 billion annually, driven by its Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Such dynamics signify the necessity for India to reinforce its ties with Nigeria and other African nations.
During the award ceremony, President Tinubu articulated Nigeria’s unwavering commitment to its partnership with India, commemorated through this honor to Modi. He highlighted Modi’s role as instrumental for Nigeria and expressed hopes for the future of bilateral economic partnerships. The award presents new avenues for collaboration, particularly with issues like energy, technology, and agriculture, which could serve to address job creation and economic stability.
The Indian diaspora residing within Nigeria has expressed great pride following Modi's honor. Sanjay Srivastava, Founder of the Overseas Friends of Bharatiya Janata Party (OFBJP) Nigeria chapter, emphasized this recognition as reflective of Modi's efforts to nurture the relationship between the two countries. He noted how such accolades strengthen mutual ties and pave the way for future investment and collaboration.
Indeed, as the Prime Minister concluded his speech at the gathering of the Indian community, he reiterated the theme of cooperation, focusing on the common challenges faced by both nations. By dedicators like Modi's recognition, both India and Nigeria can mutually work toward enhancing the socio-economic stability and progress of their citizens.
Moving forward, the prospect of India's leadership within Africa, articulated through its strategic partnership with Nigeria, paints potential paths for collective growth among developing nations. The visit not only symbolizes the promising present of India-Nigeria collaboration but also the hopeful future of bilateral and multilateral ties aimed at fortifying the aspirations of the Global South. Modi's recent award might just be the beginning of another chapter for India as it continues to expand its influence across new and important global markets.
