Nigeria, India Strengthen Ties with Deals on Counterterrorism, Maritime Security, and Trade

• Nigeria and India reaffirmed their strategic partnership, focusing on economic development, defence, healthcare, and food security during Modi’s visit
• Both nations agreed to enhance cooperation in counterterrorism, maritime security, and intelligence sharing to combat piracy and protect trade routes

Nigeria and India have reaffirmed their strategic partnership, focusing on economic development, defence, healthcare, and food security.

This agreement follows Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s state visit to Nigeria at the invitation of President Bola Tinubu.

The two leaders agreed to strengthen efforts in counterterrorism, intelligence sharing, and maritime security. They pledged to protect maritime trade routes and combat piracy in the Gulf of Guinea and the Indian Ocean.

Both nations condemned terrorism in all forms and emphasized the need for zero tolerance, calling for swift adoption of the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism under the United Nations framework.

Prime Minister Modi reiterated India’s readiness to support Nigeria’s defence modernization efforts, showcasing India’s capabilities as a trusted defence manufacturer.

India remains Nigeria’s largest trading partner and a key contributor to its economy. Nigeria acknowledged the efforts of over 200 Indian companies operating there, which have created significant employment and investment opportunities.

Both leaders emphasized the need to finalize pending agreements, such as the Economic Cooperation Agreement (ECA), Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA), and the Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT), to enhance trade and investment.

During the G20 Leaders’ Summit in September 2023, Indian investors pledged over $14 billion to Nigeria, targeting critical sectors like industrialization, energy, telecommunications, and defence. Both leaders committed to accelerating the completion of these investments.

India affirmed its support for Nigeria’s infrastructure goals through concessional lines of credit and technical expertise. Both nations agreed on long-term contracts for crude oil and LNG supply, pipeline transmission security, and advancements in CNG conversion and LPG distribution.

Three MoUs were signed during the visit, covering:

1. Cultural Exchange
2. Survey Cooperation
3. Customs Cooperation

Ambassador Dumoma Umar Ahmed signed the agreements on behalf of Nigeria and Mr. Dammu Ravi, India’s Secretary of Economic Relations. Ambassador Ahmed emphasized the importance of both parties’ commitment to ensure the success of these agreements.