The Prime Minister of India, Narendra Modi, has arrived in Abuja, marking the first visit by an Indian prime minister to Nigeria in nearly two decades.   Modi was welcomed on Saturday by Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, as he embarked on a state visit to strengthen ties between the two nations.

During his visit, Prime Minister Modi will meet with President Bola Tinubu on Sunday at the Presidential Villa in Abuja. According to a statement released by presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga, the leaders will engage in bilateral discussions aimed at enhancing cooperation in trade, investment, technology, and cultural exchanges.

“Both leaders will exchange signed Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) to enhance collaboration in critical sectors,” the statement noted.   In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Prime Minister Modi confirmed his arrival, expressing gratitude for the warm reception. “Thank you, President Tinubu. Landed a short while ago in Nigeria. Grateful for the warm welcome. May this visit deepen the bilateral friendship between our nations,” he wrote.

The visit signifies a renewed focus on fostering diplomatic and economic relations between India and Nigeria.