The Overseas Friends of Bharatiya Janata Party (OFBJP), Nigeria chapter, has expressed excitement over Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s planned visit to Nigeria from November 16 to 17.

Sanjay Srivastava, founder of OFBJP, said in a statement on Wednesday that the visit would boost bilateral ties between Nigeria and India.

“This is the first visit of our beloved Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Nigeria since he assumed office in 2014, and this marks almost 18 years since a prime ministerial visit to Nigeria. This visit will enhance bilateral ties and strengthen our diplomatic, cultural, and economic relationships. So, we are excited and look forward to a rewarding experience,” he said.

Mr Srivastava, who is also the President of the Afro-Asian Initiative for Community Development, said the India Support Group in Nigeria was eagerly awaiting the arrival of Modi to Nigeria.

He said this would spur a new chapter of friendship and trade promotion with Nigeria.

Mr Srivastava noted that the visit aimed to solidify trade and investment opportunities and enhance cooperation in key sectors like energy, technology, pharmaceuticals, and agriculture.

He said that Nigeria and India were expected to explore deeper educational, cultural, and people-to-people connections to celebrate shared values and traditions.

“It is planned that there would be joint efforts to address security challenges, counter-terrorism, and maritime security will be highlighted to align with regional and global stability goals,” he said.

He said further that India was committed to contributing to Nigeria’s healthcare infrastructure and skill-building programmes, offering expertise in medical services and workforce development.

“India and Nigeria will explore sustainable energy partnerships, focusing on renewable energy solutions to meet Nigeria’s energy needs while supporting environmental goals.

“This historic visit, culminating with discussions between Prime Minister Modi and President Bola Tinubu, signifies a strengthened India-Nigeria alliance, committed to a prosperous future, built on mutual respect and shared goals,” he said.

(NAN)