Prime Minister Narendra Modi wrapped up his visit to Nigeria on Sunday, the first by an Indian Prime Minister in 17 years. As part of his visit, PM Modi had a productive meeting with Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, with the goal of enhancing their collaboration in areas such as education, technology, health and defence. 

The two leaders also committed to collaborating to fulfil the Global South's development goals. India further declared its intention to send 20 tons of humanitarian aid to Nigeria to help with flood relief efforts. In addition to visiting Nigeria, PM Modi will also land in Brazil and Guyana as a part of his three-nation tour from November 17 to 21. "Thank you, Nigeria for a productive visit, which will add strength and vigour to India-Nigeria friendship," PM Modi wrote in a post shared on X. PM Modi and President Tinubu of Nigeria discussed "global and regional issues" during the visit and decided to cooperate to "meet development aspirations of the Global South." 

"Strengthening longstanding relations between the world's largest democracy and Africa's largest democracy. PM Narendra Modi met with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of Nigeria today in Abuja. The leaders discussed ways to further strengthen the India-Nigeria Strategic partnership and enhance cooperation in trade, investment, education, energy, health, defence and security, culture and P2P ties. They also discussed global and regional issues. President Tinubu acknowledged India's efforts to amplify the concerns of developing countries through the Voice of the Global South Summits. The two leaders agreed to work together to meet the development aspirations of the Global South," The Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement.

Additionally, the two nations inked Memorandums of Understanding on Survey Cooperation, Customs Cooperation, and Cultural Exchange Programs. The PM was accompanied by Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, and other officials. In addition, PM Modi declared that the nation would provide 20 tons of humanitarian aid to help with flood relief efforts. "On behalf of 140 crore Indians, I express condolences over the loss of lives due to flood in Nigeria last month. In support of relief works, India is sending 20 tons of humanitarian aid," said PM Modi in a meeting with Nigerian President in Abuja.

PM Modi was also honoured with the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger, Nigeria's highest national tribute. Following the prestige honour, PM Modi said that the recognition would keep him motivated to advance the strategic cooperation between India and Nigeria. "I express my heartfelt gratitude to the government and the people of Nigeria for conferring on me the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger, Nigeria's national award. I accept this honour with humility and respect. I dedicate this honour to the 140 crore Indians and the deep friendship between India and Nigeria. This award will keep inspiring us to take the India-Nigeria strategic partnership to new heights,” said PM Modi. 

Speaking to the Indian diaspora in Abuja, he emphasised the common principles of democracy, diversity, and demographic vitality between Nigeria and India, adding that the two nations are still progressing "together as partners." He said, "Today, India and Nigeria continue to move forward together as partners, reflecting the bond forged during their struggles. India is the mother of democracy, and Nigeria is the biggest democracy in Africa. We both have similarities in democracy, diversity and the energy of demography.” 

"This is my first visit to Nigeria as Prime Minister. This affection is a big capital for me. To spend time with you - this moment will remain with me, all my life... 'Mai akela nahi aaya hun, mai apne sath Bharat ki mitti ki mehak lekar aaya hu,'" added PM Modi. Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Nigeria marks the first by an Indian Prime Minister in 17 years. He is currently on a three-nation tour, covering Nigeria, Brazil, and Guyana, from November 17 to November 21. After his state visit to Nigeria, PM Modi travelled to Brazil, the second stop on his tour. In Brazil, he will participate in the 19th G20 Leaders' Summit, scheduled for November 18-19.

As a member of the G20 Troika, India will play a key role in shaping the agenda, building on the progress made during its G20 presidency last year. Brazil is expected to focus on issues important to the Global South, continuing efforts to address shared priorities. PM Modi has expressed confidence in Brazil's ability to further the Global South's interests. "In Brazil, I will attend the 19th G-20 Summit as a Troika member. Last year, India's successful Presidency elevated the G-20 to people's G-20 and mainstreamed the priorities of the Global South into its Agenda. This year, Brazil has built upon India's legacy. I look forward to meaningful discussions in keeping with our vision of 'One Earth, One Family, One Future.' I will also use the opportunity to exchange views on furthering bilateral cooperation with several other leaders," PM Modi said in an official statement.