Mkpoikana Udoma
Port Harcourt — Nigeria and India have announced their commitment to enhanced cooperation in maritime security, focusing on safeguarding vital trade routes in the Gulf of Guinea and Indian Ocean.
The agreement was reached during the state visit of Indian Prime Minister, Narendra Modi to Nigeria, at the invitation of President Bola Tinubu, as both nations agreed to intensify their naval cooperation, conduct regular joint exercises and anti-piracy operations to ensure the safety of critical shipping lanes.
The two leaders met in Abuja, where they discussed joint efforts to tackle growing maritime threats, including piracy and illegal activities, which have increasingly plagued the Gulf of Guinea.
During their talks, President Tinubu and Prime Minister Modi underscored the need for stronger intelligence sharing and counterterrorism collaboration to address not only maritime piracy but also the broader security challenges posed by cross-border terrorism.
The leaders in a joint statement released by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, reiterated their stance against terrorism in all its forms, particularly the transnational movement of terrorists and the financing of violent extremism.
”The leaders reiterated their unequivocal condemnation of terrorism in all its forms and manifestations including the cross-border movement of terrorists and terror financing networks and safe havens.
”They called for zero tolerance to terrorism and expeditious finalization and adoption of the Comprehensive Convention on International terrorism in the UN Framework as well as implementation of the UNGA and the UNSC resolutions on countering terrorism and violent extremism.
”It was agreed to enhance cooperation in the area of counter terrorism,” the joint statement said.
In addition to maritime security, the leaders discussed expanding bilateral ties in defence, economic development, healthcare, and agriculture, with India pledging continued support for Nigeria’s modernization efforts, including the supply of defense equipment and technological expertise.
Prime Minister Modi reiterated India’s readiness to support Nigeria’s defence modernization efforts, highlighting India’s emergence as a trusted defence manufacturer.
The two leaders also highlighted the vibrant economic relationship between India and Nigeria, with India positioned as Nigeria’s largest trading partner and a significant contributor to its economy.
Nigeria commended the contributions of over 200 Indian companies operating in the country, which have generated substantial employment and investment opportunities.
On bilateral trade expansion, both leaders directed their officials to finalize pending agreements, including the Economic Cooperation Agreement, Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement, and the Bilateral Investment Treaty, to boost trade and investment.
They noted with satisfaction ”the fruitification of some of the investments” agreed to by the Indian companies during the visit of President Tinubu to India in September 2023, and committed to facilitating early finalization of the remaining investments.
