Nigeria and India don reaffirm their commitment to strengthen bilateral relations as both countries continue to explore new opportunities for economic growth, capacity building and sustainable development.
The renewed partnership come as the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Abubakar Atiku Bagudu, alongside the Minister of State for Budget and Economic Planning, Dr Doris Anite Uzoka, receive delegates from the National Defence College (NDC), New Delhi, India, during a strategic engagement on Nigeria’s economic outlook for Abuja on Tuesday.
The delegation, led by Joint Secretary for the Government of India and Head of the National Defence College Study Tour, Ms Anvita Sinha, visit Nigeria as part of efforts to better understand the country’s economy, security situation, foreign policy direction and development plans.
Speaking during the meeting, Bagudu describe Nigeria and India relationship as one built on friendship, mutual respect and shared goals for economic development.
According to am, Nigeria values India’s experience in economic transformation, federal governance and inclusive growth, noting say the Asian nation’s success story fit provide useful lessons for developing countries like Nigeria.
The minister explain say Nigeria’s economic planning strategy dey focus on inclusive growth and balanced development across the federation while also addressing challenges linked to poverty, unemployment, migration and environmental pressures.
He stress say modern security challenges require strong economic policies, institutional resilience and sustainable development initiatives.
On her part, Minister of State for Budget and Economic Planning, Dr Doris Anite, welcome the Indian delegation and describe the visit as an important platform for knowledge sharing and stronger diplomatic engagement.
She highlight Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to improve economic planning and implement development priorities, while praising India’s achievements in agriculture, technology, housing and human capital development.
Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Dr Deborah Odoh, also describe the visit as an opportunity to exchange ideas on economic development, strategic planning and security-related issues.
She reaffirm the ministry’s commitment to partnerships that support sustainable growth and stronger international cooperation.
Meanwhile, India’s High Commissioner to Nigeria, Abhishek Singh, commend the warm reception given to the delegation and describe Nigeria-India relations as a strong and enduring partnership built on trust and strategic cooperation.
He reveal say the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation (ITEC) Programme has produced over 25,000 Nigerian alumni and continues to provide training opportunities for both civilian and military personnel.
According to him, the success of the programme reflects the commitment of both countries to human capital development and knowledge transfer.
Speaking on behalf of the Indian delegation, Ms Anvita Sinha express appreciation to the Federal Ministry of Budget and Economic Planning for hosting the team and creating an avenue for meaningful discussions on Nigeria’s economic future.
She note say the engagement will further strengthen cooperation between both countries and open new opportunities for collaboration in areas of mutual interest.
