President Bola Tinubu on Sunday hosted Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, marking a significant moment in Nigeria-India relations.
Modi, who arrived in Abuja on Saturday evening, was formally welcomed by President Tinubu at the Forecourt of the State House around 10:20 am.
The reception featured a series of ceremonial honors. The Indian leader was greeted with the Indian National Anthem, followed by the Nigerian Anthem rendered by the Brigade of Guards. Modi then inspected a mounted Guard of Honour before a 21-gun salute marked the occasion.
During the visit, both leaders are set to engage in a range of bilateral activities. These include a restricted meeting, delegation-level discussions, and the exchange of signed Memoranda of Understanding to enhance collaboration in key sectors.
A statement from the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, highlighted the objectives of the visit.
“President Tinubu and Prime Minister Modi will seek to strengthen Nigeria’s and India’s ties further during their bilateral discussions. Both leaders will exchange signed Memoranda of Understanding to enhance collaboration in critical sectors,” Onanuga stated.
Modi’s visit to Nigeria is historic, being the first by an Indian prime minister since Dr. Manmohan Singh’s state visit in 2007, during which the two nations established a strategic partnership.
This visit underscores the commitment of both nations to deepening their bilateral relationship and exploring new avenues for cooperation.
