By Our Correspondent
National News – Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation with India ahead of major international engagements scheduled for May 2026.
The renewed partnership focus was announced on Thursday in Abuja during a meeting between the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Dunoma Ahmed, and the Indian High Commissioner to Nigeria, Abhishek Singh.
The discussions centred on trade, security, renewable energy, agriculture, technology, and industrial development.
Ahmed praised the cordial diplomatic relationship between both countries and stressed the importance of stronger collaboration as Nigeria prepares for the India-Africa Forum Summit in New Delhi later this month.
He noted that Nigeria and India share democratic values and common goals aimed at sustainable development, economic growth, and South-South cooperation.
According to him, the forthcoming BRICS and India-Africa Forum meetings will help developing nations strengthen multilateral partnerships amid changing global economic realities.
The permanent secretary also highlighted Nigeria’s interest in attracting more Indian investments into critical sectors such as manufacturing, mining, agriculture, renewable energy, and local value addition.
He explained that improved economic cooperation would support job creation, industrial expansion, and long-term development across Nigeria.
Ahmed further called for stronger cooperation in security and counter-terrorism through technology transfer and defence capacity building.
He stated that deeper security ties would help address emerging threats and improve regional stability.
Speaking during the meeting, Singh described Nigeria as a strategic partner and an important stakeholder in India’s engagement with Africa.
He said the Indian government was looking forward to Nigeria’s active participation in the BRICS Foreign Ministers’ Meeting scheduled for May 14 to 15 at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi.
Singh also highlighted ongoing renewable energy initiatives under the International Solar Alliance and Africa Solar Facility.
He noted that India was exploring additional developmental partnerships and renewable energy investments in Nigeria to strengthen economic and diplomatic relations between both countries.
