Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday expressed condolences to the people of Nigeria for the lives lost in last month’s devastating floods and announced that India will send 20 tons of humanitarian aid to support relief efforts.
“On behalf of 140 crore Indians, I extend my condolences for the lives lost due to the floods in Nigeria. To support relief efforts, India is sending 20 tons of humanitarian aid,” PM Modi said during his meeting with Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in Abuja.
Prior to the Prime Minister’s visit, India had already sent 15 tons of humanitarian aid to assist Nigeria as it grapples with the aftermath of the floods.
During his address, PM Modi also expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for his commitment to strengthening the strategic partnership between India and Nigeria. He highlighted milestones in their bilateral relations, including Nigeria’s participation in the G20 Summit as a guest country and its recognition as a partner nation in BRICS.
“I am grateful for your dedication to deepening ties between our nations. Last year, under India’s G20 presidency, Nigeria participated as a guest country for the first time. I am delighted that Nigeria has now been recognized as a BRICS partner nation. This is truly historic,” PM Modi remarked.
The visit marks the first by an Indian Prime Minister to Nigeria in 17 years. PM Modi expressed joy at the opportunity, noting it came at the beginning of his third tenure.
“Our partnership with Nigeria spans key sectors such as defence, energy, economy, technology, health, education, and culture. Together, we are tackling challenges like terrorism, drug trafficking, and smuggling. The more than 60,000 members of the Indian community in Nigeria also play a vital role in our relations,” he added.
PM Modi also expressed gratitude to Nigeria for conferring upon him the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON), describing it as an honour for India and its enduring relationship with Nigeria.
“This honour is not just mine but belongs to the 140 crore people of India and the centuries-old ties between our nations. I thank Nigeria for this recognition,” he said.
(Ani)
