During Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s historic visit to Nigeria on November 16-17, 2024, he referred to Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as “Ore Mi,” a Yoruba phrase meaning “my friend.” This symbolic gesture highlighted the warmth and camaraderie between the two nations and emphasized the strategic partnership they share. Modi’s visit marked the first by an Indian prime minister to Nigeria in 17 years, showcasing the growing significance of Nigeria as a key partner for India in Africa.
The visit focused on strengthening ties across various domains, including energy, trade, technology, and defense cooperation. Discussions also emphasized addressing global challenges such as climate change, economic growth, and sustainable development. India is a major trading partner for Nigeria, with bilateral trade exceeding $14 billion annually, and Indian companies have invested over $27 billion in Nigeria in sectors like pharmaceuticals, manufacturing, and ICT .
Modi addressed both Nigerian leaders and members of the Indian diaspora, underlining the importance of people-to-people connections. He celebrated the shared vision of economic growth and mutual development, pledging support for Nigeria’s progress and strengthening cooperation under frameworks like the India-Africa Forum .
This visit was part of Modi’s broader international tour, including stops in Brazil for the G20 Summit and Guyana, where he furthered India’s engagement with global and regional partners .
Prime Minister Modi’s visit to Nigeria also underscored India’s focus on South-South cooperation, fostering collaboration between developing nations. This aligns with India’s broader vision of strengthening ties with Africa under initiatives like the India-Africa Forum Summit and advancing partnerships in technology transfer, skill development, and infrastructure. As Nigeria plays a pivotal role in Africa’s economy, the visit reinforced India’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s ambitions in renewable energy and digital transformation.
The use of the Yoruba phrase “Ore Mi” by PM Modi highlighted the cultural diplomacy at play, symbolizing respect for Nigeria’s rich heritage and fostering a sense of mutual friendship. This gesture resonated with both leaders and citizens, strengthening bilateral goodwill while setting the stage for future collaborations in global forums like the United Nations and the G20, where both nations aim to amplify the voices of the Global South .
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