The Indian diaspora in Nigeria extended a warm welcome to Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Abuja on Sunday. He became the first Indian PM to visit the west African nation in 17 years. The Prime Minister returned the compliment, describing the around 60,000-strong Indian expatriate community as a key pillar of India-Nigeria relations.
Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu received State guest Modi at Abuja airport. Minister for Federal Capital Territory Nyesom Ezenwo Wike presented Modi with the 'key of the City' of Abuja.
Some more glimpses from the welcome in Abuja, Nigeria. pic.twitter.com/TT7ZwxrsYW
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 16, 2024
Modi was also conferred with Nigeria's national award, the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON), making him the second foreign dignitary to receive the distinction.
Amid a busy schedule, the prime minister attended an Indian diaspora reception in the capital city. Modi dedicated the GCON award to “crores of Indians”.
According to the Prime Minister’s website, Modi “highlighted that during his talks with President Tinubu, the latter praised the efforts of Indians in Nigeria which made him feel proud”.
The Prime Minister underlined that the Indian diaspora here “and added that “there were many Indian doctors who were serving selflessly in Nigeria” as well as “many Indian businessmen who had established businesses and been an active part of Nigeria’s development story”.
Thank you Nigeria for the memorable welcome! pic.twitter.com/2hneeauHD1
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 17, 2024
He recalled that even before Independence, Shri Kishanchand Jhelaram ji had migrated to Nigeria and set up a business which had become one among the biggest business houses of Nigeria. He added that today many Indian companies were bolstering the economy of Nigeria. Modi noted that the Tulsichandra foundation was lighting up many Nigerians’ lives.
The prime minister also announced that India is sending 20 tonnes of relief supplies for Nigerian people hit by last month's floods.
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